Should You Choose the HEMI or Cummins Engine for Your Ram 2500?

The Ram 2500 is a beast of a truck that has outstanding towing and hauling capability, which is one reason why so many construction sites are populated with these models. Deciding to look for a Ram 2500 for sale for work purposes is easy, but figuring out which engine to equip it with isn’t so simple; this is because the Ram 2500’s two engine choices—the HEMI and the Cummins—are very different. If you are not sure which one is right for your needs, this guide will help you make the soundest choice.

Why Choose the HEMI Engine?

To understand the benefits of a HEMI engine, it pays to know how they work. Instead of the traditional flat cylinder heads found in other engines, HEMI engines have dome-shaped heads (hence the name, which derives from “hemispherical”), along with two large slanted valves. This design enables higher compression ratios, and it increases the volume of air-fuel mixture that can be burned. It also lessens the surface area of the cylinder head—and with less surface area, not as much heat gets absorbed, which allows the combustion chamber to retain more of it; this is important because, when temperatures are higher in the combustion chamber, you get more pressure during the ignition process.

HEMI engines were first developed around the turn of the twentieth century; because they were so powerful, many of the earliest models to utilize them weren’t vehicles out on the street but race cars on the track. In the 1950s, HEMIs became more mainstream—and ever since the heavy-duty Ram pickup’s third generation debuted in 2002, both the Ram 2500 and 3500 have had a HEMI engine standard.

Because of its unique design that enables efficient combustion and excellent acceleration, a HEMI engine is the one you will want if you regularly need to haul a lot of weighty materials. Because it offers a ton of power while still maintaining good fuel economy, Ram 2500s outfitted with HEMI engines are popular choices for drivers and businesses tasked with heavy-duty assignments.

The standard powertrain of the fifth-generation Ram 2500 is a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 that pumps out 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque. One of the biggest advantages of having a HEMI under your hood is that it is ready to get to work. With this engine in your Ram 2500, you will be able to tow up to 17,730 lbs. In addition, it has a maximum payload of 4,000 lbs. Another benefit of a HEMI compared to a diesel engine is that they are usually quieter, so if you have to leave early in the morning for work, you will be less likely to disturb your neighbors.

Why Choose the Cummins Engine?

Your other engine choice with the Ram 2500 is a Cummins Turbo-Diesel. Cummins engines also have a long history, and they date all the way back to 1919, when former auto repair shop owner Clessie Cummins set out to build a new type of engine that would revolutionize the industry. Refined over time, Cummins engines have a block and head built of iron, and they also utilize a steel timing gear. They work by drawing air into a cylinder and compressing it to a high temperature; fuel is then injected into the hot air, which ignites, creating an explosion, which results in a piston being pushed down, which generates power to get the crankshaft rotated.

The Cummins engine that’s available in the fifth-generation Ram 2500 is a 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo-Diesel inline-six. While the power output is lower than the HEMI’s, at 370 hp, its torque climbs all the way up to 850 lb-ft. Cummins engines deliver more torque than almost all others, which means that their towing capacity is exceptional. The Ram 2500 with the HEMI can actually haul more (as the Cummins has a maximum payload of 3,150 lbs), but this Turbo-Diesel is the one you’ll want if you prioritize towing, as it has a tow rating of 19,990 lbs.

There are many benefits of choosing a Cummins Turbo-Diesel engine. In addition to that extra towing ability, they are extremely durable, and it is not uncommon for trucks with Cummins engines to log up to 400,000 miles. These engines don’t require as much maintenance as their gas-powered counterparts, and they also have better fuel efficiency. Diesel is more expensive than gas, but it doesn’t get used up nearly as quickly—and if you are thinking about your investment long-term, vehicles with Cummins engines also tend to have higher resale values.

Which Engine Is Better for Your Needs?

Now that you know about the engine choices, it’s time to make that major decision for your truck. If you plan to use your truck regularly to haul huge loads, a HEMI is a great choice; with this engine, you will get the ideal combination of performance, durability, and reliability. While Cummins engines also have a strong reputation for being durable and reliable, they produce so much more torque than the HEMI that you will want it if you need to tow substantially heavy loads.

Outstanding Capabilities Either Way

The muscle of the Ram 2500 is evident, and when hard work needs to be done, you will be hard-pressed to find another truck that is better suited for it. That being said, however, this model will feel just at home in your driveway as it does on a construction site, so it could make for a fantastic daily driver or even a great family vehicle. While it will never be confused with a sports car, it handles well; it offers light steering at low speeds, so it is easy to park, and if your daily excursions involve navigating bumpy roads, your truck’s suspension will smooth them out. This is because, unlike most pickups that use solid leaf springs for their suspensions, the Ram 2500 utilizes coil springs, which ensure excellent ride quality.

Another notable attribute of this heavy-duty pickup model is that it can be taken almost anywhere. If your work activities or recreational adventures involve getting out on rugged terrain, the Ram 2500 will accommodate you. It comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but that can be swapped out for four-wheel drive for better traction off-road. Two trims in particular will make this truck shine off-road: First, the Rebel trim comes standard with four-wheel drive, an off-road-tuned suspension, and an electronic locking rear differential. Second, the Power Wagon comes with all of that as well as an adjustable suspension, locking axles, powder-coated bumpers, and a front-mounted winch. Its Off-Road Package will also add Hill Descent Control, performance-tuned shocks, and off-road tires.

Find Your Perfect Ram 2500

The Ram 2500 is ready to be put to work. No matter which engine you go with, you will be impressed with its capabilities—and now that you are more familiar with the Ram 2500’s power potential, you will probably want to check it out in person. At Zimmer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, you will find Ram 2500s with both engine types, along with a variety of trim levels. Tell us what you are looking for with your truck, and we will help you find it. Contact us with any questions, or just come down to our dealership to explore the models we have in stock!