Ed Martin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Ram Heavy Duty 6.4L
HEMI V8 Vehicles

You can find the standard for heavy-duty gas performance across Indiana with the 6.4L HEMI V8. Known as the Big Gas Engine (BGE), this powerplant is engineered to handle the rigorous demands of commercial operations. It provides the necessary strength to move massive loads across the state without the higher purchase price or complicated maintenance schedules found with diesel alternatives.

You can take advantage of a major benefit in the Ram 2500 and 3500: reduced engine weight. Since this V8 is much lighter than a diesel motor, it often allows for a higher payload capacity. This enables you to transport more tools, equipment, or materials in the truck bed while traveling through Indiana.

6.4L HEMI BGE Specs

This motor is distinct from the versions used in performance cars. The BGE block utilizes high-strength cast iron instead of aluminum and includes reinforced internal parts and improved cooling paths to manage the heat of constant heavy towing.

6.4L HEMI BGE Specs
Feature Specification
Fuel Requirement 87 Octane Acceptable (89 Rec. for Towing)
Block Material Cast Iron (BGE Heavy-Duty Spec)
Transmission 8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP75)
Max Payload Capacity Up to 7,590 lbs (Ram 3500)
Max Towing Capacity Up to 17,750 lbs (Ram 2500)
Torque 429 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Horsepower 405 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Expert Insight:

MDS for Heavy Duty

The 6.4L HEMI uses Fuel Saver Technology to help manage fuel use during your business trips.

The Tech: This system utilizes cylinder deactivation to improve efficiency. When you are driving on the highway without a load, the computer stops fuel delivery to four of the eight cylinders.

The Result: Your truck functions as a large 4-cylinder engine to reduce fuel consumption. All eight cylinders reactivate the moment you accelerate to climb a hill or pass another vehicle, ensuring you have access to maximum power whenever the task requires it.

Available Models with the 6.4L HEMI

You will find this engine acting as the foundational power source for the entire Ram Heavy Duty lineup.

Ram 2500 Tradesman

Ram 2500 Tradesman

This trim is the primary choice for local fleets. By choosing the 6.4L gas motor, you maximize your payload for hauling supplies, providing a cost-effective solution for your company.

Ram 2500 Power Wagon

Ram 2500 Power Wagon

This off-road model uses the 6.4L HEMI exclusively. The lighter weight of the gas engine improves front-end handling, while the linear throttle response is ideal for navigating technical trails and mud.

Ram 3500 Chassis Cab

Ram 3500 Chassis Cab

If your business requires a service body or dump bed, this engine offers a reliable and easily maintained platform for custom upfits.



6.4L HEMI Gas vs. 6.7L Cummins Diesel

You can choose the gasoline engine for several distinct benefits even though the diesel offers higher torque.

Feature 6.4L HEMI V8 (Gas) 6.7L Cummins I6 (Diesel)
Warm Up Fast (Great for winter use) Slower (Requires more heat soak)
Maintenance Lower (No DEF, simpler oil changes) Higher (Fuel filters, DEF fluid)
Torque 429 lb-ft 850 - 1,075 lb-ft
Horsepower 405 hp 370 - 430 hp
Best For... High Payload, Short Trips, Cold Starts. Max Towing, Long Haul Highway.

Why Buy a Ram HD Gas from Us?

You are likely to use a heavy-duty truck for demanding work like plowing or hauling, which makes proper maintenance history vital. Purchasing from a private seller involves the risk of not knowing the engine's total idle hours or if the transmission was ever overheated.

We verify the mechanical health and history of every work truck in our inventory.

Our team at Ed Martin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram inspects the drive systems and engine hours to ensure your vehicle is ready for the job site.

Commercial Safety Net

You can find many Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks that meet the requirements for our Certified Pre-Owned program.

  • Warranty: Your business is protected from high repair costs with powertrain coverage that includes the transmission and engine.
  • Exhaust Manifold Check: Technicians inspect the engine for exhaust leaks, which can occur on heavy-duty V8s that tow frequently.
  • Transmission Verification: We verify the fluid condition and shift points of the 8-speed automatic to ensure it has not been damaged by previous heavy loads.

Maintenance Pro-Tips

You can preserve the performance of your 6.4L BGE HEMI by following these suggestions from our service department:

Maintenance Pro-Tips
  • Oil Viscosity: You must use 0W-40 Synthetic Oil (MS-12633). This specific lubricant is required to protect the hydraulic lifters and heavy-duty bearings; avoiding 5W-20 or 5W-30 is critical.
  • Idle Hours: Monitor your engine's idle time if you use the truck for on-site work. High idle hours count as severe duty and mean you should change your oil more often to protect the lifters and cam.
  • Spark Plugs: This engine utilizes 16 platinum-tipped spark plugs. When you reach the 100,000-mile mark, you should replace all 16 to maintain peak fuel efficiency and power.
Serving Anderson and Central Indiana

Serving Anderson and Central Indiana

The Ram 6.4L HEMI V8 allows you to complete heavy-duty tasks without the need for a diesel engine. Visit our Anderson location to test drive the Ram 2500 and experience this gas horsepower for yourself.

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