2018 Ram 3500 Expedition Family Adventure Vehicle
- Thread starter Kingsize24
- Start date
Kingsize24
Well-known member
No problem. Was loading up the truck today to head out of town to do a little lite camping/hunting for a couple days. She is pretty heavily loaded though with all the kids toys and supplies. Looks like I need a very slight bit of lift in the rear when loaded.
It is bolted in 6 locations to the bed where the plastic caps on the side normally clip in.
I did at one point, but the static load on this was 150lbs higher for the roof. I like the aluminum better as well.
Explorerinil
Observer
Air bags and Daystar cradles.
Tex68w
Beach Bum
Yup, shop it right and it won't cost you more than $350 total.
Pnwfullsize
Active member
Just wanted to chime in as I have an hd series topper. I even had ARE add a 3rd crossbar so I could have more options when it comes to mounting a tent. The rack works great, still cant decide if I prefer the fiberglass look or the utilitarian look of the aluminum toppers.
Seems like the HD series combines the best of both worlds: fiberglass shell keeps the weight down, but the internal aluminum skeleton adds some reinforcement for heavier roof loads.
I believe the HD series has a higher weight rating vs the regular fiberglass caps, correct?
DCU is likely a bit more robust by comparison.
Tex68w
Beach Bum
Looking good! It just blows my mind how much these trucks swarm 37's, they look like stock tires on our rigs.
Pnwfullsize
Active member
Yes its load rating is increased. Snugtop offers their reinforced cap that comes close to the ARE HD load rating however it is still just fiberglass and what sold me on the ARE Is their crossbars are also rated at 550lbs for a pair. So even if you went with a 500lb reinforced snugtop, you have to find bars that are also rated that high.
Riddler6.7
New member
I love the front bumper, but am curious of it still allows for enough airflow through the intercooler? I pull a pretty heavy 5th wheel so I certainly don't want to raise air temps.
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1pieceatatime
Observer
Did ARB bumper help or hurt your approach angle? It’s definitely a looker!
Explorerinil
Observer
You need to post some pics of that new grill!
Kingsize24
Well-known member
Just placed an order for some last night. Was just a tick over $350. Paid 376.98 shipped. Thanks for the info!
I struggled a bit with the same thoughts as you. Ended up settling with the DCU due to the double doors, ability to add a 4th crossmember for even more rigidity, ability to add dual internal frame supports, as well as a few other small items that was not available on the HD. All in all, I don't think the look is as nice as an HD would have been if you want a more sleek profile, but I am not going for a sleek look on this build. I want form to follow function, and most everything so far has been to do that. It doesn't mean I don't add look specific items, but it is not the primary goal if you get my drift.
Yea, it is crazy. They make 37's look like 33's.
I have had it in some super warm temps pulling, and haven't had any issues at all yet. I would say that it would be fine. May be something you call ARB and talk to their tech specialists on however. This pic was while pulling this past summer in 102 degree Texas heat. Oil and coolant temps stayed fine. Had about 10k lbs on it at this time.
Did ARB bumper help or hurt your approach angle? It’s definitely a looker!
I would say it hurt it over stock front bumper with 37's, but about the same as with a stock front bumper and stock tires. I still prefer it however due to the protection provided, among other things.
This is all you get for now! Bugs, mud, and all!
Kingsize24
Well-known member
Got my under hood light on yesterday. I can't believe something like this doesn't come on the vehicle from the factory, but I guess at least they provide you with the plug.
ttengineer
Adventurer
Got my under hood light on yesterday. I can't believe something like this doesn't come on the vehicle from the factory, but I guess at least they provide you with the plug.
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Mine came with the light. It’s not very bright though. I need to see if I can swap out the bulb for a higher lumen LED.
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