2005 Dodge 3500 SLT Big Horn Edition – Following the half-ton body style change that took place in 2002, Dodge’s 2500 and 3500 series trucks received a fresh look for 2003—but the new look was only the beginning. The high output 5.9L Cummins option was graced with high-pressure common-rail injection and delivered 555 lb-ft of torque on top of 305 hp. Foundationally, the third-gen heavy-duty Rams received a stronger frame, new axles and larger four-way disc brakes, which were marketed as the longest-lasting brakes in the segment. A true four-door crew cab configuration was finally released, along with a single rear wheel 3500 model and Dodge’s trucks came with a 7-year/70,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
If you were after a Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 because of the Cummins option (which proved to be the case for more than 75-percent of all buyers), the 5.9L inline-six diesel definitely delivered in 2003. The new high output version of the Cummins featured a high-pressure common-rail injection system, which meant the 5.9L was quieter, cleaner and more powerful than it’d ever been. At its release, the 359 ci common-rail Cummins produced 305 hp at 2,900 rpm and 555 lb-ft of torque at 1,400 rpm. Midway through the ’04 model year, the Cummins “600” entered the picture, its name signifying the fact that it turned out 600 lb-ft of torque (along with 325 hp). In ’05 the 5.9L received another bump in torque, eventually topping out at 610 lb-ft, available at 1,600 rpm.
When we located this Dodge we weren’t specifically shopping for a Dodge in this era. But, we needed the best diesel truck we could find to pull a large boat from CA back to TX. After a lot of research and a few days of rigorous shopping, we located this exceptional 2005 Ram 3500! We knew that 4×4 and dually rear wheels would be the safest option for our trip. Locating a 3500 with the legendary 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel was even better and made for a very smooth, almost 2k mile, drive back to TX. This Ram lived with its original owner in southern California until early 2026. It spent a short stint in NV before we solidified the purchase for our haul. The previous owner had recently serviced the transmission, replaced the turbo, upgraded the exhaust manifold and installed 2 Optima Red Top batteries. A complete list of features and options includes; 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel, Auto, 4×4, Quad Cab, Airbags, Factory Alarm, ABS Brakes, Diamond-plated Bedrails, Center Console Storage, Chrome Grille, Chrome Bumpers, Cruise Control, Rubber Floormats, Fog Lights, Keyless Entry, Nerf Bars, Owners Manual, Overhead Console, Power Windows/Locks, Power Tow Mirrors, Factory AM/FM/CD, Sliding Rear Window, Tilt Steering, Tinted Windows, Tow Package, Tire Tools, Spare Tire, 17″ Factory Wheels, and Michelin LT235/80 R17 Tires! With only 145k miles, this 2005 Ram 3500 Big Horn is ready to work for years to come.