Extended MegaMonster test drive

[CUMMINZ]

On a recent business trip to middle Georgia I stopped by TDR & Geno's Garage and visited my friends Robert and Robin Patton. After taking a short tour of Geno’s Garage, Robert and I walked out the side door to visit the Mexican low rider 3500. I called it that because I am used to driving a big 4x4 3500 which sits much higher. This truck gave the impression of a lowered beast. Two wheel drive Dodge trucks have always given me the impression that they would make awesome towing vehicles because of their lower center of gravity. After conversing with Robert about pertinent world events he handed me the key and said take her for a 30 minute cruise on the interstate. I hesitated and then said, “let’s go”. After turning the key I heard the familiar sound of a big Cummins and another whine which I figured out was the air compressor for the rear air suspension. After pulling out of the parking lot expecting it to handle like a tractor trailer, I soon settled down and realized that the extended frame of 22 inches was not much different than my standard quad cab long bed. The ride soon allowed me to settle into my seat. This monster drove and rode very well. Once I pulled out onto Hwy. 400 and rolled up on 70mph I did realize one thing. There was no bumping or harshness from the rear. Highways in the south are often concrete and the joints in the road filled with hot asphalt often cause an uncomfortable ride. Bumpity – bumpity-bump is what you often get. I could feel the front end hit the joint but nothing in the rear. Strangely great. Robert told me he had one leaf spring removed and the air suspension added. It also lowered the rear slightly. A new name for it, perhaps the “Silver Cigar”. It was also obvious that with the speedometer clocking 70 mph the RPM gauge was showing about 1700 rpms which indicated a 3.73 rear axle ratio. The engine still had plenty of power but it did not have the zip of my 4.10. After returning to Geno’s Garage I climbed under the truck and inspected the frame and air suspension; both impressed me. With the investment of the suspension and extension this would make a great HD hauling family wagon for those long trips out west. I would highly recommend this conversion.