Automatic has a higher tow rating than the Manual?

[LEerkes]

Maybe I'm just dense... but, I have always been under the impression that the manual transmission was "better" for towing. I noticed when looking at the Dodge Ram Towing Guide that the 48re has from 50 to 200 lbs more towing capacity than the 6 speed manual. Anybody know why that is??



Is it simply a function of weight? Does that manual weigh more than the automatic?



Don't worry - I'm not that dense. I'd still buy the manual if I did a bunch of towing!!

 

[gonzo2]

Yes the NV 5600 is much heavier and has a cast iron body as compared to the (I believe) aluminum 48RE thus the reduction in towing cap.

 

[RobertBolinger]

Look here:

http://www.klenger.net/dodge/3rd-gen-reference/2004-ram-towing.pdf



Compare the base curb weights and I think you will find that the manual truck weights about the same amt. more over the auto as the reduction in towing capacity-the NV5600 is a cast iron monster

 

[LEerkes]

OK,



Thanks guys... I feel better now. whew...

 

[Deezul1]

I suspect the tow rating difference on transmissions has more to do with the fact that a lot of folks will tear out clutches with heavy loads and the auto trans is a no brainer with a big load, just doesn last as long.

 

[DPelletier]

the tow ratings are just made up fairy-tale numbers like the payload ratings. Depends what your truck weighs. Both 6 spds and autos are rated at the same GCVWR so the only real-life difference is the difference in weight between the NV-5600 and 48RE, about 200 lbs. Again ONLY the GVWR and GCVWR matter.



Dave

 

[K_Arts]

Are the weights in that document listed above correct? It says that the 2500 SLT 4x4 with the auto and 3. 73 has a GCWR of 20,000?



The second Gen trucks were rated at 16,000. What is the major difference between the two trucks?



Could it be the new axles and going from a 3. 54 to a 3. 73?



Kev

 

[RobertBolinger]

Originally posted by K_Arts

going from a 3. 54 to a 3. 73?

I read this change was related to bigger tires.

 

[klenger]

My 01. 5 6 speed had a GCWR of 20,000. I think the 2nd gens with the 47RE were much lower. The 48RE in the 3rd gens gave the auto the same rating as the 6 speed.

 

[y-knot]

Automatics generally have a higher tow rating because they produce more torque. Now, Now I can already hear the comments, but it is in fact true. The additional torque is made by the torque converter, It will in-fact increase torque by 40% when there is no lock-up. This is also why auto's will out accelerate manuals from a stop, and why autos are popular in drag racing.

Think about it, an additional 40% of torque!!! That would make a 600 with a auto and taking off at full throttle have 840 ft/lbs of torque, Eat your hart out manual guys. That is also why they a much nicer to tow with, now if they would only last.

 

[klenger]

y-knot



That's why the manual has a granny (5. 63:1) and the auto (2. 45:1) doesn't. Do you want to recalculate the torque difference again?





Here are the tow ratings for the 2001 trucks. Note that the auto is less than the manual.



http://www.klenger.net/dodge/2nd-gen-reference/towing-charts.html



Here are the tow ratings for the 04's.



http://www.klenger.net/dodge/3rd-gen-reference/2004-ram-towing.pdf