Dodge Penstar 6 cylinder

[No plea]

Is anyone out there pulling a casita, scamp or escape with a dodge ram 1500 with the penstar 6 cylinder? If so, are you happy with it's performance? What kind of mileage do you get while towing? This combo looks good on paper but before I buy Iwould like some real time feedback.

Sent from my GT-N5110 using Fiberglass RV mobile app

[MC1]

It is a nice engine overall but do some research. There was some issues with defective heads. Not sure if the problem has been resolved yet.

[Mike Magee]

I think the head problem was with the 2011 (edit: oops, 2012!) models, long since resolved. MCDenny is towing a Lil Snoozy with that engine in a Grand Cherokee, and he's loving it... says it has plenty of power.

Have a look at this thread: http://www.fiberglassrv.com/forums/f...-v6-63236.html

[BillE]

I have a 2DR Jeep with the 3.6 L. Its a great engine. In 2012 there were some issues with the heads up until about July 2012.

I have a 2013 and its great. Pulled from Wisc. out to Moab...them to Durango CO ...up to Ouray CO and back home not a problem.

The big thing you need to check is the rear axle ratio. I have a 3:21 and I get about 18MPG while towing. That rear end is geared for mileage. I have researched and I would have been better getting a 3:73 rear axle ratio. It would provide better towing ...but lesson learned. Don't get me wrong the 3:21 works fine...it's just that the 3:73 would be better.

As far as the engine...it's fantastic...but that isn't what provides the torque for towing....it's all in the drive train.

[Michel, Bouchard]

Hi, not a Dodge Ram, but a 2012 Jeep Wangler JK, 2drs, V6 3.6L Pentastar with manual 6 speeds, 3,73 gear ratio. Towing our '73 Boler with it.

It is a really great combo, this handles with charm. The average we get while towing is around 17.5 mpg at 60-65 mph (around 21 not towing).

[Burtim]

I've got a 2014 JGC on order with the V6. I have no experience to report yet... but I think it will be fine.

[steve dunham]

I own a Ram 1500 with the 3.55 rear end . I like the 3.55 for everyday driving but wish I would have bought the 3.92 for towing. The 3.55 seems to make the transmission shift to often when towing in hilly areas even in tow haul mode .I wish Ram offered a 3.73 rear end, which to me would be a good compromise . I would be Leary of the V6 with the low axle ratio rear end in a full size pickup truck

[MCDenny]

I have the same engine/trans in a 2014 Jeep GC. Towed my 2850# Snoozy 11,000 miles this winter including through the southern Rockies and over a 9400' pass. Speed was only limited by curves and my conservative driving, never HAD to slow down on hills.

Averaged 16 to 17 mpg towing. 23 to 25 mpg not towing.

The 8 spd trans makes a big difference and is very smart, as in when coasting downhill, it won't up shift even if you take your foot off the gas. It knows you want engine braking. When you slow for a corner it won't up shift as it knows you are turning and thinks you will want the same gear after exiting the corner.

The Ram is probably a little heavier and certainly less aerodynamic so might get a little less mpg but should tow just as well.

[MC1]

Originally Posted by MCDenny

The Ram is probably a little heavier and certainly less aerodynamic so might get a little less mpg but should tow just as well.

For sure. Our local towing specialist did some testing with the Hemi Ram pick up VS the Hemi Dodge Charger. When towing a substantial TT he reported the Ram pick up felt like a dog compared to the Charger.
Weight and bad aerodynamics will be a negative every time.