Performance Tuner for 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi Thats Exhibits Inconsistent Power Output

Question:

My tow vehicle is a Dodge Ram 1500 w/5.7 Hemi. We tow a travel trailer using a Reese weight dist/sway control system. It seems that the towing is very inconsistent. One tow the truck tows fine. The next it seems to hang up in top gear and wont go into overdrive or it seems to struggle with torque and HP. I had a person recommend having the computer re-flashed. Not sure if that is the right step or employing a tuner for towing each time. The camper is about 6500lb with full load. Im just at a loss I guess. I dont want to waste money but I feel like I need to do something. The Dodge dealer said a re-flash will solve the issue but for how long? I tow several different types of things. I have a car trailer and the camper so the weights and tow distances are not the same. Thoughts?

asked by: Philip R

Expert Reply:

If your concern is inconsistency in the power and torque performance from your Ram 1500 when towing, then I think having the computer flashed by the dealer is probably the most sensible first step. Some folks opt to do this 're-boot' themselves by simply disconnecting the battery for 15-minutes and then reconnecting it.

Just in case there is some actual problem with the truck I suggest you eliminate this possibility first, before installing a performance tuner. It is hard to know whether your power/torque concern comes from an engine performance issue or from the transmission so an evaluation from a qualified technician will at least eliminate this potential cause.

With that sorted out you can, if you want more towing power, install a performance tuner like the Superchips Flashpaq F5 Performance Tuner # SU3845. This unit is legal in all states and can deliver gains of up to 17 horsepower and 26-ft-lbs of torque when used in the Premium mode with 91-octane fuel.

expert reply by: Adam R