Ram Heavy Duty 6.4L HEMI® V8 (BGE) Engine in Western PA

For Western Pennsylvania fleets and contractors, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 is the heavy-duty standard. Codenamed "BGE" (Big Gas Engine), this power plant is built specifically for the abuse of commercial work. It delivers the durability required for hauling heavy loads up Butler County hills without the upfront cost or maintenance complexity of a diesel.

Available in the Ram 2500 and 3500, this engine offers a crucial advantage: weight savings. Because it is significantly lighter than the diesel option, it frequently offers higher payload capacity, allowing you to carry more salt, gravel, or tools in the bed while navigating Cranberry Township.

6.4L HEMI "BGE" Specs

This is not the same engine found in muscle cars. The BGE block is cast from high-strength iron (not aluminum) and features enhanced cooling channels and reinforced internals to withstand sustained heavy towing.

Feature	Specification
Horsepower	410 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque	429 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Max Towing Capacity	Up to 17,730 lbs (Ram 2500)
Max Payload Capacity	Up to 4,000+ lbs (Varies by Config)
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic (ZF 8HP75)
Block Material	Cast Iron (BGE Heavy-Duty Spec)
Fuel Requirement	87 Octane Acceptable (89 Rec. for Towing)

Expert Insight:

MDS for Heavy Duty

Even in a ¾-ton truck, efficiency matters. The 6.4L HEMI uses Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation) to balance power and economy.

The Tech: When you cruise unladen on I-80, the computer shuts off fuel to four cylinders, allowing the engine to operate as a large 4-cylinder.

The Result: The moment you press the throttle to climb a grade in Sharon, all eight cylinders fire instantly. This happens seamlessly, providing full power exactly when needed.

Available Models with the 6.4L HEMI

This engine is the standard workhorse across the Ram Heavy Duty lineup.

Ram 2500 Power Wagon:

The off-road legend uses the 6.4L HEMI exclusively. Its linear throttle response and lighter front end make it superior to diesel for technical trails and mud in New Castle.

Ram 2500 Tradesman:

The fleet favorite. With the 6.4L gas engine, you maximize your payload for hauling supplies, making it the most cost-effective choice for local businesses.

Ram 3500 Chassis Cab:

For custom upfits (dump beds, service bodies), the 6.4L HEMI provides a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform with a tight turning radius for Mercer County jobsites.

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6.4L HEMI Gas vs. 6.7L Cummins Diesel

The diesel has more torque, but the gas engine has its own distinct advantages for Hermitage drivers.

Feature	6.4L HEMI V8 (Gas)	6.7L Cummins I6 (Diesel)
Best For...	High Payload, Short Trips, Cold Starts.	Max Towing, Long Haul Highway.
Horsepower	410 hp	370 - 420 hp
Torque	429 lb-ft	850 - 1,075 lb-ft
Maintenance	Lower (No DEF, cheaper oil changes)	Higher (Fuel Filters, DEF Fluid)
Warm Up	Fast (Great for winter plowing)	Slower (Needs time to build heat)

Why Buy a Ram HD Gas from Us?

Heavy-duty gas trucks are often worked hard. A truck used for plowing or heavy towing needs specific maintenance to last. Buying from a private seller carries risks regarding transmission health and engine hours.

We verify the truck's history. At Mike Kelly Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we inspect the idle hours and drive systems to ensure your work truck is ready for the job site.

Certified Pre-Owned Program Search Pre-Owned Inventory

Commercial Safety Net

Many of our Ram 2500/3500 trucks qualify for our Certified Pre-Owned program.

Transmission Verification: The ZF 8-speed is tough, but we check fluid condition and shift points to ensure it hasn't been overheated.
Exhaust Manifold Check: We inspect for leaks, a common wear item on heavy-duty V8s that tow frequently.
Warranty: You get powertrain protection that covers the engine and transmission, keeping your business running without unexpected repair bills.

Owner’s Corner: Maintenance Mike Kelly Pro-Tips

The 6.4L BGE HEMI is robust, but it requires correct fluids. Follow these rules from our Service Center:

Oil Viscosity: You must use 0W-40 Synthetic Oil (MS-12633). This specific weight is required to protect heavy-duty bearings and hydraulic lifters.
Spark Plugs: This engine uses 16 spark plugs (two per cylinder). Ensure you replace all 16 at the 100,000-mile mark to maintain efficiency.
Idle Hours: If you use your truck for site work, high idle time counts as "severe duty" and requires more frequent oil changes to protect the cam and lifters.

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Serving New Castle, Butler, Hermitage, Sharon and All of Western PA

The Ram 6.4L HEMI V8 proves you don't need diesel for heavy duty work. Visit us in Hermitage to test drive the Ram 2500 and feel the gas horsepower for yourself.

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Picture may not represent actual vehicle. Price varies based on Trim Levels and Options. See Dealer for in-stock inventory & actual selling price. Online pricing subject to verification by dealership and subject to errors and omissions. All prices plus tax, title & Doc Fee ($490), with approved credit.