Well that was embarrasing

[TrogL]

Took the truck in for an oil change and the guy opened the hood, burst out laughing, damn near fell down, then called over all his buddies for a look.

It's a Dodge 1500 Quad Cab with a 3.6 V6. For what I do, it's all the engine I need. The truck is the base model, the only upgrade being power windows and locks. Hence, I got it cheap, it's cheap to insure and as the guy said when he finally stopped laughing, I get great gas mileage.



What's so funny is that there's room for the engine plus two people to stand in the engine compartment. I've seen bigger commercial sewing machines. If it was the hemi engine, the compartment would be full.

Apparently they're quite rare - everybody goes for the Hemi engine. I must have really pissed off the dealership 'cause it looks like I bought their loss leader.

[Major Nikon]

1. I never really understood the need for so many to get such a big engine

Most people who buy a truck for non-commercial use don't really need the cargo and towing capability that often. If you are towing something that is heavy, a bigger engine is nice, but the rest of the time you're simply burning more gas and paying higher insurance costs.

[TrogL]

2. I use mine to haul speaker columns, furniture, reno trash and for light farm work

The biggest test it's gotten is pulling down a house and dragging some 50 foot poplars.

If you're doing anything really heavy-duty, the 2500 is a bare minimum. I doubt the 1500's suspension would take it. So the hemi-guys have a bigassed engine in a truck that can't handle the load.

[Major Nikon]

4. For hauling cargo in the box it's more about suspension and tires

That's the limiting factor. So yeah, a bigger engine just doesn't make much sense for most, but everyone wants to have one.

[cyberswede]

3. Hey...good gas mileage is nothing to sneeze at!

Maybe you could use the extra space for cargo!

[HopeHoops]

5. Looks like a nice truck. And don't fart at a 3.6. I've got one in my Sable wagon.

They're fucking powerful for light-weight (3,200 lb) vehicles.

My Galaxie 500 has a 390 V-8, but she's 4,000 lbs. Different purpose. They used Galaxies as cop interceptors (usually with a 429).

[TrogL]

6. Yeah it's got lots of get up and go

I've squealed the tires a few times getting away at intersections and it passes like a dream. It's got a button to push when you're hauling something. I've only had to use it once for a bed full of lumber.

[HopeHoops]

7. That button just disables overdrive. It might also lock in the magnetic coupling.

[TrogL]

8. That's good to know - the manual doesn't explain it

[HopeHoops]

9. The manuals are written for Republicans - you know, morons.