Saw this at the Detroit Show last week.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...174511&width=0

https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...174512&width=0

https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...174513&width=0

https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...174514&width=0

https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gal...174515&width=0

Not sure exactly why they went this way, I'm assuming that it is probably easier to tune from a ride and handling standpoint, but I wonder about long term durability while fully loaded and / or towing.

The setup is actually probably similar to the Expedition / Navigator rear end.

What does everyone think about this?

 

I think that it is different, so everyone will fear it. If they fear it, they will malign it. It doesn't matter if it is good or bad.

 

IMHO Dodge went this way ( coil springs ) for ride quality more than anything. I am very interested to see the difference in ride quality. As for towing, the 09 Ram is rated for 8700#'s ( around there ). I like the fact that Dodge hasn't tried to sugar coat the #'s for sake of advertising.

 

This subject has already been beat to death in another thread, if I can just find it.

Jim

 

I mean seriously, now they are rating half tons for towing more than my 03 superduty, yet I STILL have a stronger frame, axles, and transmission. go figure.

 

Well the off-road guys will like the ability to easily fit four-wheel coilovers on that thing I guess.

 

It's nothing new, GM built 1/2 ton pickups with rear coil springs up until the '73 models (not sure what year they started). It's all about the trade-offs, slightly better ride, slightly less towing and hauling capability. Dodge is trying to be different because the 1/2 ton segment is getting so crowded everyone is looking for ways to stand out vs. the competition. At least the '09 Dodge has better looks IMHO than the current one.

 

It was moved up to the "2009 F150" forum.

I prefer leafs over coils. I never see myself owning a dodge regardless though.