Blog

As late August transitions into crisp September mornings, sportspeople across Park County are tuning up their bows, sighting in their rifles, and preparing for another unforgettable hunting season. Whether you're drawing a tag for elk, mule deer, or antelope, the terrain around Cody demands a vehicle that works as hard as you do. From navigating the steep grades up the South Fork of the Shoshone River to tackling unpaved trailheads deep in the Shoshone National Forest, the RAM truck lineup is engineered to dominate Wyoming’s rugged backcountry. more Smart, Secure Storage with the RamBox® System Across the RAM lineup, the available class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System is a complete game-changer for hunters. Built directly into the bed rails, these lockable, weatherproof bins keep expensive rifles, bows, and optics safe and completely out of sight when you stop in town before dawn. After a long day in the woods, throw your muddy boots or wet gear straight inside—the built-in drain plugs allow you to hose the bins out in seconds. Plus, with integrated interior lighting and an available 115-volt outlet, gear adjustments in the pre-dawn darkness are effortless, all while leaving your main truck bed wide open for coolers, wall tents, or an ATV. Unmatched Diesel Torque: RAM 2500 Heavy Duty Rebel® When your hunting setup involves hauling a heavy camper, a trailer full of side-by-sides, or gear for a multi-week backcountry camp up steep mountain passes, the RAM 2500 Heavy Duty Rebel® answers the call. Powered by the available 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine, it packs immense low-end torque to pull massive weight up high-altitude inclines without breaking a sweat. Combined with factory-installed Bilstein® gas-charged monotube shocks, aggressive all-terrain tires, heavy-duty skid plates, and an electronic rear locking differential, the Diesel Rebel effortlessly bridges the gap between heavy towing horsepower and off-road grit. Technical Trail Dominance: RAM 2500 Power Wagon® For hunters pushing deep into extreme terrain where dirt roads turn into boulder-strewn rutted trails, the legendary RAM 2500 Power Wagon® stands in a class of its own. Engineered specifically for technical off-road access, it features front and rear electronic locking differentials for ultimate 4x4 traction, along with a class-exclusive electronic disconnecting front sway bar for extreme wheel articulation over washouts. If you ever find yourself navigating deep mud or needing to clear a fallen tree off a remote forestry trail, the factory-integrated 12,000-lb WARN® winch gets you unstuck and moving again with confidence. Find Your Hunting Rig at Fremont CDJR Cody Whether you need the everyday versatility of a RAM 1500 or the heavy-duty backcountry prowess of the Diesel Rebel and Power Wagon, there is a RAM truck built for your exact hunting style. Before archery season kicks off, stop by Fremont Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Cody to explore our full RAM lineup, test out the RamBox system, and ensure your rig is ready for the Absarokas this fall.

Defining the 2026 Ram Power Wagon in the Heavy-Duty Lineup The 2026 Ram Power Wagon occupies a unique space as the dedicated off-road specialist within the Ram 2500 heavy-duty family. While other trims in the lineup focus on maximum towing or luxury highway cruising, the Power Wagon is engineered specifically for technical trail work and remote access. It is exclusively offered as a crew cab model with a 6-foot-4-inch bed and standard four-wheel drive. This configuration balances the wheelbase for better maneuverability on tight trails while providing enough interior volume for a full crew or family. more Within the broader Ram heavy-duty hierarchy, the Power Wagon sits above the work-oriented Tradesman and mid-level Big Horn, but it serves a different purpose than the premium Limited trims. While a standard Ram 2500 is often the choice for hauling heavy livestock trailers through Billings, the Power Wagon is for the rancher or outdoor enthusiast who needs to reach high-altitude campsites or remote job sites where pavement doesn't exist. It prioritizes suspension articulation and mechanical grip over the stiff-springed towing capacities found in the rest of the 2500 fleet. Our team often helps local drivers determine which heavy-duty configuration fits their specific workload. If you are ready to see how this specialized hardware handles in person, you can reach us at (307) 587-6206 to discuss current availability. For those traveling from out of town to visit our showroom at 3127 Big Horn Ave, Cody, WY 82414, we can provide a complete walk-around of the off-road features that distinguish this model from the standard heavy-duty lineup. Table of Contents Specialized Off-Road Suspension Upgrades vs Standard Ram 2500 Towing and Payload Capabilities of the 2026 Power Wagon The 2026 Powertrain Debate: HEMI V8 Gas vs Cummins Diesel Understanding Pricing, Trim Configurations, and Long-Term Value Off-Road Maintenance Realities and How to Inspect a Used Model Common Questions About the 2026 Ram Power Wagon Specialized Off-Road Suspension Upgrades vs Standard Ram 2500 What truly separates the Power Wagon from a standard 2500 is the Ram Articulink Suspension system. While a standard heavy-duty truck uses a stiff front suspension to support massive engine weights, the Power Wagon utilizes a high-movement linkage that allows for significantly more wheel travel. This is paired with a front disconnecting stabilizer bar, which can be disengaged with the push of a button. When disconnected, the front axle can drop and climb over obstacles independently, keeping the tires in contact with the ground on uneven surfaces like the rocky terrain found near the Rimrocks. The damping duties are handled by factory-installed, tuned Bilstein gas-charged shocks. These are specifically valved to soak up high-speed washboard roads while maintaining composure during slow-speed crawling. Unlike the standard 2500, which may use leaf springs in certain rear configurations, the Power Wagon utilizes a five-link rear coil suspension that provides a smoother ride and better axle control when the bed is empty. This setup also results in a factory lift, providing about 14 inches of ground clearance to protect the underbody. Mechanical traction is further enhanced by Tru-Lok front and rear locking differentials. In a standard 2500, an open or limited-slip differential might leave you spinning a tire in deep mud or snow. The Power Wagon allows the driver to lock both axles, ensuring all four wheels turn at the same speed. This hardware is supplemented by a 4.10 axle ratio, which provides the low-end crawl ratio necessary for technical maneuvers without straining the powertrain. Towing and Payload Capabilities of the 2026 Power Wagon A common question we hear involves the trade-off between off-road agility and raw hauling power. Because the Power Wagon uses softer, long-travel springs for better trail performance, its capacities differ from a standard Ram 2500. For the 2026 model year, the Power Wagon offers a maximum towing capacity of 10,590 pounds when properly equipped. This is a significant amount of capability for most campers and horse trailers, but it is lower than the 17,750 pounds max rating found on some other Ram 2500 configurations. The maximum payload capacity for the Power Wagon is listed at approximately 1,530 pounds. It is important to remember that this figure includes the weight of all passengers and any gear in the bed. For comparison, the Ram 2500 Rebel, which lacks the disconnecting sway bar and uses slightly stiffer rear springs, can offer a payload closer to 3,140 pounds. The Power Wagon is designed for the user who prioritizes reaching the destination over the total weight of the cargo being carried. To help manage these loads safely, the truck includes Trailer Tow Pages and Off-Road Info Pages within the digital display. These tools allow you to monitor tire pressures on the trailer and the pitch and roll of the truck in real time. For those hauling through the foothills of the Absaroka Mountains, these data points are vital for maintaining control on steep grades. The truck comes standard with a Class V receiver hitch, though we always recommend a weight-distribution setup for trailers exceeding 5,000 pounds to keep the front end planted. The 2026 Powertrain Debate: HEMI V8 Gas vs Cummins Diesel For the 2026 model year, the Ram Power Wagon remains powered exclusively by the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 gasoline engine. This powerplant delivers 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, providing a responsive and predictable throttle feel that is essential for low-speed rock crawling. The engine is paired with the 8HP75-LCV 8-speed automatic transmission, which is specifically calibrated for the heavy-duty demands of this truck. This gas-only approach is a deliberate engineering choice; the heavy weight of a diesel engine would negatively impact the front-axle suspension travel and the overall balance required for technical off-roading. There has been much discussion regarding the availability of the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel in this trim. While the Cummins is available in other 2500 models—producing up to 1,075 lb-ft of torque —it is currently not an option for the Power Wagon. Beyond the weight concerns, the diesel's cooling requirements and larger front-end components interfere with the mounting of the front electric winch. This integrated winch is a hallmark of the Power Wagon, providing 12,000 pounds of recovery capacity that is always ready when the trail gets too difficult. Operating a high-displacement V8 in cold-winter climates like ours requires some specific considerations. The Power Wagon comes equipped with a block heater and a 730CCA maintenance-free battery to ensure reliable starts when temperatures drop well below freezing. While the diesel engine offers incredible highway efficiency and towing torque, the HEMI V8 provides the high-revving power and lighter front end that makes the Power Wagon the most capable factory-built heavy-duty off-roader on the market today. Understanding Pricing, Trim Configurations, and Long-Term Value The 2026 Ram 2500 Power Wagon is a premium-tier truck with an MSRP typically starting around $73,250. However, many units on our lot are equipped with the Power Wagon Level 2 Equipment Group, which adds a suite of comfort and technology features that can bring the total closer to the $88,000 range. This package often includes the 14.5-inch touchscreen display, a 17-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, and heated and ventilated leather seats. For many of our customers, this turns the rugged off-roader into a sophisticated daily driver that is just as comfortable on a long trip to Billings as it is on a dirt trail. Long-term value is supported by a robust warranty package designed for heavy-duty use. This includes a 3-year / 36,000-mile basic warranty and a segment-leading 10-year / 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty for the original retail owner. Additionally, the truck is covered by a 5-year / 100,000-mile roadside assistance warranty, which is a vital safety net for those who frequently travel into remote areas. Because these trucks are built with heavy-duty components like a GVWR of 8,565 pounds, they tend to hold their value exceptionally well in the secondary market, especially in regions where four-wheel-drive capability is a necessity. Off-Road Maintenance Realities and How to Inspect a Used Model Frequent off-roading near Yellowstone National Park or on local ranch roads will naturally increase the maintenance needs of any vehicle. For a Power Wagon, this means paying extra attention to the gas-pressurized shock absorbers and the various bushings in the multi-link suspension. Dust, mud, and water can accelerate wear on steering components and universal joints. We recommend regular inspections of the 2 skid plates and the MOPAR rock rails to ensure they haven't sustained structural damage that could compromise the components they are designed to protect. If you are looking at a used 2026 model, there are several signs that can tell you if the truck was used heavily off-road. Check the underbody for deep gouges in the skid plates or dents in the fuel tank. Inspect the 17-inch black painted aluminum wheels for "rock rash" along the edges. It is also wise to test the front disconnecting stabilizer bar and the lockers to ensure the electronic actuators are functioning smoothly. A truck that has been well-maintained will have clean differential fluid and a winch cable that is free of frays or kinks. Common Questions About the 2026 Ram Power Wagon Q: Does the Power Wagon require special maintenance for its winch? The integrated winch should be periodically unspooled and respooled under tension to ensure the synthetic line or steel cable is seated correctly. It is also important to inspect the remote connection and the motor housing for corrosion, especially after driving through deep water or mud. Our service team can perform a full winch inspection during your regular oil change intervals. Q: Can I fit larger tires on the Power Wagon without a lift kit? The truck comes standard with LT285/70R17D OWL AT tires, which are roughly 33 inches tall. Because the Power Wagon already features a raised ride height from the factory, many owners find they can fit slightly larger 35-inch tires with minimal trimming, though this can affect the accuracy of the speedometer and the clearance of the wheel wells during full suspension articulation. Q: How does the fuel economy of the 6.4L HEMI compare to other trucks? While heavy-duty trucks are not EPA-rated like light-duty pickups, the 6.4L HEMI V8 is designed for work rather than fuel sipping. Owners typically see fuel economy in the low-to-mid teens depending on the load and terrain. The 31-gallon fuel tank provides a reasonable range, but those planning long trips through remote areas should plan their fuel stops accordingly. Q: Is the Power Wagon available in a Mega Cab configuration? No, the Power Wagon is strictly limited to the Crew Cab with the 6-foot-4-inch bed. This is to maintain the specific wheelbase and weight distribution required for the off-road suspension to function at its peak. If you require the extra interior space of the Mega Cab, you would need to look at the Laramie or Limited trims, though you would lose the Power Wagon's specific off-road hardware. If you have more questions about how this truck fits your lifestyle, give our team a quick call to speak with a specialist. We are proud to serve the local community and can provide specific advice on vehicle setups for our unique Wyoming climate. You can also visit our team at Fremont Motor Cody Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to compare the Power Wagon side-by-side with other heavy-duty models. Regardless of your choice, we are here to ensure your truck is ready for the work and play that matter most. © 2026 Fremont Motor Cody Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. All rights reserved.

When it comes to handling the demanding workloads of Wyoming’s rugged landscapes, the 2026 RAM 2500 stands out with its powerful and versatile engine lineup. Whether you’re managing a busy ranch near Cody or navigating the challenging terrain around Red Lodge, MT, having the right engine under the hood is critical to getting the job done efficiently and reliably. The 2026 RAM 2500 offers two distinct engine choices designed to deliver the perfect balance of strength, fuel efficiency, and durability tailored for heavy-duty tasks. more The first option is a robust 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine, known for its rugged performance and dependable power output. This naturally aspirated V8 generates 405 horsepower, making it an excellent choice for those who need solid towing and hauling capabilities without sacrificing everyday drivability. The HEMI’s design focuses on durability and responsiveness, which means it can handle the continuous demands of energy sector jobs, agricultural work, and construction projects common in Wyoming’s rural areas. Its fuel management system also helps optimize efficiency, allowing you to cover long distances between Billings, MT, and Yellowstone National Park without frequent refueling stops. For those who require maximum torque and towing strength, the 2026 RAM 2500 also offers a 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel inline-six engine. This powertrain is a favorite among heavy-duty truck enthusiasts who need serious muscle for hauling heavy trailers, livestock, or equipment on rugged backroads. The turbo diesel engine delivers an impressive 430 horsepower and a remarkable 1,075 lb-ft of torque, positioning it among the top performers in its class. This engine’s torque is especially valuable when climbing steep grades or maneuvering through uneven terrain, making it ideal for Wyoming’s mountainous regions and demanding job sites. Additionally, the Cummins diesel is engineered for longevity and fuel economy, meaning less downtime and lower operating costs over time. Both engines come paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission that optimizes power delivery and helps maintain control in challenging driving conditions. The RAM 2500’s engine options also feature advanced cooling systems and heavy-duty components, enhancing reliability during continuous heavy workloads. Whether you’re hauling supplies into Yellowstone National Park or managing a ranch near Cody, the choice between the HEMI V8 and Cummins Turbo Diesel lets you tailor your truck to meet the unique demands of your work. At Fremont Motor Cody Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we understand the importance of matching the right powertrain to your specific needs. If you’re ready to experience the rugged capability and proven performance of the 2026 RAM 2500, visit us at 3127 Big Horn Ave, Cody, WY or call us at (307) 587-6206 to discuss which engine option fits your work needs best. Maximizing Your Workload with the 2026 RAM 2500’s Impressive Towing Capacity When your work demands hauling heavy loads across Wyoming’s rugged terrain, the 2026 RAM 2500 stands out as a reliable partner. This truck is engineered to deliver exceptional towing strength, allowing you to confidently manage everything from construction equipment to livestock trailers. With a maximum towing capacity that reaches up to 20,000 pounds, the RAM 2500 is built to handle some of the toughest jobs around Billings, MT, and Cody, WY. This impressive towing capability comes from a combination of sturdy design and advanced technologies. The reinforced frame and durable suspension system work together to maintain stability and control, even when towing heavy trailers over uneven surfaces. Plus, features such as trailer sway control and integrated trailer brake systems ensure safer handling during long hauls, making your drives less stressful and more secure. For those working in agriculture or energy sectors near Red Lodge, MT, the RAM 2500’s towing prowess means you can transport larger equipment or multiple payloads without sacrificing performance. Its towing setup supports various trailer types, including flatbeds, goosenecks, and fifth wheels, offering flexibility tailored to your specific hauling needs. Whether you’re navigating steep mountain roads or hauling heavy loads on Wyoming’s open highways, the RAM 2500 is designed to maximize your productivity. Its towing strength not only boosts your efficiency but also adds peace of mind knowing you have a truck built for the job. This capability makes it an indispensable asset for rugged workdays and demanding outdoor projects alike. ​ Choosing the Right 2024 RAM 2500 Trim Level for Your Needs in Cody, WY Selecting the proper trim level for your 2024 RAM 2500 ensures you get the right mix of features, comfort, and capability tailored for Wyoming’s rugged environment. RAM offers a range of trims designed to meet diverse demands, from work-focused hauling to more refined daily driving. The Tradesman trim provides a straightforward, no-frills package ideal for hardworking professionals needing durability and dependability. It includes essential features like vinyl flooring for easy cleaning and a robust suspension ready for heavy loads. This trim is perfect for ranchers or contractors around Cody who prioritize function over luxury. Stepping up, the Big Horn trim adds convenience and style with upgraded interior materials, larger wheels, and available technology packages. This option suits those balancing work and family, providing comfort during long drives to Billings or Yellowstone while still handling tough jobs. For drivers seeking premium comfort and advanced tech, the Laramie trim offers leather seats, advanced safety systems, and a high-end infotainment system. It’s well-suited for those who want a capable truck that also delivers on everyday comfort for family outings or weekend adventures near Red Lodge. Each trim level supports RAM’s legendary durability and off-road readiness, making it straightforward to find a version that fits your lifestyle and work requirements in Cody’s demanding terrain. ​ Comparing the 2024 RAM 2500 and Chevy Silverado 2500HD: Which Heavy-Duty Truck Fits Wyoming’s Landscape Better? When it comes to heavy-duty trucks that can handle Wyoming’s rugged environment, both the 2024 RAM 2500 and Chevy Silverado 2500HD offer strong capabilities, but there are distinct differences that make the RAM 2500 a standout choice for many local drivers. The RAM 2500 excels in delivering a blend of power, comfort, and advanced features suited for demanding work and outdoor adventures around Cody and Billings. Under the hood, the RAM 2500 offers robust engine options, including the high-output 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel engine known for its impressive torque and towing strength. This diesel engine delivers up to 1,075 lb-ft of torque, providing superior hauling power on steep grades and rough terrain typical of Wyoming’s landscape. In contrast, the Silverado 2500HD’s diesel variant offers solid performance but generally falls short of matching the RAM’s torque output, which can make a real difference on heavy loads and extended towing tasks. Both trucks offer durable suspensions and heavy-duty frames, but the RAM 2500’s coil-spring rear suspension provides a smoother ride on rough back roads, enhancing driver comfort without sacrificing capability. This advantage is particularly noticeable on long drives to Yellowstone National Park or across rural ranches. In terms of technology and safety, the RAM 2500 integrates driver-assist features and an easy-to-use infotainment system that supports practical needs without overwhelming complexity. This aligns well with Wyoming’s working families and tradespeople who value straightforward, reliable tools. Ultimately, for those in Cody and surrounding areas prioritizing dependable power, comfort, and smart features tailored to rugged environments, the 2024 RAM 2500 offers a well-rounded package built to tackle the challenges of Wyoming’s outdoors. ​ Maintaining Your RAM 2500: What to Expect for Annual Service Costs in Billings, MT and Beyond Keeping your RAM 2500 in top shape is essential, especially when you rely on it for demanding tasks around Billings, MT. Annual maintenance costs generally cover routine services like oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid top-offs. On average, owners can expect to budget around $600 to $900 per year, depending on usage and local service rates. Fremont Care is included with Truck purchases from a Fremont Motors dealership which includes 2 oil changes and a tire rotation within the first year of ownership. Diesel-powered RAM 2500 models may have slightly higher upkeep due to specialized components like the turbocharger and particulate filters. Regular maintenance at authorized service centers ensures your truck stays reliable through Wyoming’s rugged conditions. Fremont Motor Cody Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram offers expert care with certified technicians familiar with RAM’s powertrains and components, helping extend your vehicle’s lifespan. Scheduling timely service appointments not only prevents costly repairs but also preserves your truck’s performance and safety. You can easily get directions to Fremont Motor Cody Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram or call us at (307) 587-6206 to schedule your next service visit. Reliable maintenance means more time on the road and less downtime, no matter where you travel in Red Lodge, MT, Yellowstone National Park, or Cody, WY. © 2026 Fremont Motor Cody Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. All rights reserved.