Home FAQ

Does the Ram 3500 have leaf springs?

Yes. The Ram 3500 uses a heavy-duty rear leaf-spring suspension as standard, designed to support substantial payloads and towing. An optional rear air suspension is available on certain trims to improve ride quality and level the load.

The Ram 3500 is Ram's flagship heavy-duty pickup, built to haul heavy loads and pull large trailers. Its rear suspension is a defining feature that affects payload capacity, ride quality, and overall towing behavior. This article explains how leaf springs work on the Ram 3500, what to expect across different trims, and how the optional air suspension changes the setup.

Rear suspension architecture

Understanding the Ram 3500's rear suspension helps explain its load handling and ride characteristics.

Key points about the Ram 3500 rear suspension include:

Rear axle uses heavy-duty leaf-spring packs (multi-leaf springs) designed for high-load capacity.

Leaf springs couple with a solid rear axle and link geometry to maintain wheel alignment under heavy payloads.

Leaf-spring setups provide predictable ramping and durability for towing and hauling, with payload ratings varying by configuration.

In many trims, an optional rear air suspension can be added to help level the vehicle and adjust ride height when loaded.

In short, the Ram 3500 relies on leaf springs for its standard heavy-duty rear suspension, with an optional air suspension available to enhance leveling and ride quality on selected builds.

Optional air suspension and ride height

For buyers seeking a smoother ride with better leveling under load, Ram offers an air-based system on some 3500 configurations. This system can supplement or replace traditional leaf-spring behavior to maintain a level ride height when towing or carrying heavy loads.

Summary

The Ram 3500 uses rear leaf springs as its standard suspension setup to deliver strong payload and towing capabilities. An optional rear air suspension is available on certain models to improve ride quality and maintain level handling under load. Overall, leaf springs remain a defining feature of the Ram 3500’s heavy-duty design, with modern options to tailor ride height and comfort depending on configuration.

What year to stay away from Ram 3500?

You should avoid the 2003 and 2006 Dodge/Ram 3500 models due to specific issues like dashboard cracking in the 2003 and HVAC/suspension problems in the 2006. The 2013 Ram 3500 should also be approached with caution due to frequent recalls and known issues, particularly the "death wobble".
Years to avoid

2003: Known for a cracked dashboard and faulty Engine Control Module (ECM). It is also associated with higher-than-average repair costs.
2006: Has a reputation for suspension problems, including the "death wobble," and HVAC system faults.
2013: Has a high number of recalls and is particularly known for "death wobble" issues.

Potential issues to look for in other years

First-generation models (pre-2003): Prone to rust, electrical problems, and unreliable speedometers/odometers.
2007-2018: While many consider the 6.7 Cummins in this range to be reliable, be aware of potential issues like the CP4 fuel pump failure that can occur in later models.
2023: Some owners have reported problems with fuel pumps and turbos.

General advice

Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic who specializes in diesel trucks to check for common problems, especially in older models.
When considering any used truck, check for maintenance records and ask the owner about any major repairs.

Do Dodge Rams have leaf springs?

Another difference to pay attention to on the Ram models is the option for 2-wheel drive or 4- wheel drive. Both models have 4-leaf spring model with a capacity of 2,800 lbs. and a 5-leaf spring model with a capacity of 3,300 pounds, but you need to make sure you get the right leaf spring to fit your truck.

Do Ram 3500 have leaf springs?

Quality putting a coil spring in the rear of a 2500 truck seemed crazy at first but when you drive the truck.

What is the difference between Ram 2500 and 3500 suspension?

The main difference is the Ram 2500's rear suspension uses a five-link coil spring setup, providing a smoother ride, while the 3500 uses a heavier-duty leaf spring system for greater towing and payload capacity. The 2500 also offers an optional rear air suspension, and both models share the same front suspension.
This video explains the difference between Ram 2500 and 3500 suspension: 35sBig Dog BuildsYouTube · Sep 13, 2024

Feature	Ram 2500	Ram 3500
Rear Suspension	Five-link coil spring system (standard) or optional rear air suspension	Leaf spring system
Ride Quality (Unloaded)	Smoother and more comfortable	Stiffer, as it's built for heavy loads
Towing & Payload	Lower capacity compared to the 3500	Higher capacity for heavy-duty jobs
Front Suspension	Same as Ram 3500	Same as Ram 2500

Choose the Ram 2500 if you prioritize a more comfortable, smoother ride, especially when the truck is unloaded. It is ideal for everyday tasks and moderate hauling.
Choose the Ram 3500 if your priority is maximum towing and payload capacity for heavy-duty work, though this comes with a stiffer ride when empty.

This video compares the ride quality of Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks: 59sCJC Off RoadYouTube · Jan 23, 2025

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.