Carli Suspension Systems for the RAM 2500: A Complete Comparison Guide
Posted by Sean Reyes on
After three years of extensive testing on our 2020 RAM 2500 Power Wagon, we've had the unique opportunity to evaluate all four stages of Carli's suspension packages.
Whether you're running a RAM 2500 or Ford Super Duty, this comprehensive comparison will help you understand the distinct characteristics and benefits of each system. Let's dive into what makes each package unique and help you determine which one best suits your needs.
The Commuter System: The Game Changer
The Commuter system, featuring 2.0 IFP (Internal Floating Piston) shocks without reservoirs, represents the most dramatic improvement over stock suspension. Here's what we discovered:
Stock vs. Commuter Comparison
The stock configuration (33-inch tires with Bilstein shocks) provided:
- Rail-like handling
- Extremely firm ride
- Unforgiving off-road
- Limited suspension movement
After upgrading to the Commuter system (with 37-inch tires), we experienced:
- Significantly improved small bump compliance (softer)
- Better absorption of potholes and speed bumps
- More controlled suspension movement on larger bumps
- Enhanced off-road forgiveness, especially on rocky terrain
For those considering their first suspension upgrade, the Commuter system offers the most noticeable improvement over stock. It fundamentally transforms how the suspension operates, allowing proper dampening instead of the rigid, brick-like character of the factory setup.
The Backcountry Kit: Reservoir Benefits
The Backcountry system introduces external reservoirs, bringing several technical advantages:
- Relocated nitrogen gas from the main shock body to the reservoir
- Increased total nitrogen gas volume
- Lower operating pressures
- Additional wheel travel (approximately 0.75 to 1 inch more than IFP shocks)
In real-world performance, we found the Backcountry system to be the softest of all four options. While this translated to excellent comfort in many situations, it became somewhat too soft when heavily loaded (1,000+ pounds). The system particularly showed its limitations during high-speed off-road driving, where it didn't significantly outperform the Commuter system for our use case.
Where the backcountry kit is supposed to have advantage over the commuter kit is in the on-going rougher terrain that would typically fade-out the 2.0 IFP shocks. If you like to play around all day in the dirt, and find the handling of the truck gets too loose in the heat, then the reservoirs give a bit more capability and longevity to damping ability.
The King 2.5 Pin Top: The Sweet Spot
The King Shocks 2.5 system represents Carli's most popular package, and for good reason. Its larger 2.5-inch shock bodies allow for more sophisticated valving, resulting in:
- Sharper response compared to 2.0 systems
- Excellent balance between comfort and handling
- Superior bottom-out protection
- Improved confidence at higher speeds
One important note: These shocks aren't designed to provide an ultra-soft, "pillowy" ride that some might associate with King shocks. Instead, Carli's tuning delivers a sportier feel that maintains composure across diverse conditions. While they can be retuned for a softer ride, the stock valving represents an optimal balance for vehicles that need to perform multiple duties.
Some will be surprised to hear that the commuter and backcountry shocks are softer than the King 2.5, but that’s the nature of ‘performance’ shocks vs ‘commuter’ (daily driven) setups.
The Dominator 3.0: Ultimate Performance
The flagship Dominator system with 3.0 King Shocks represents the pinnacle of Carli's offerings. While the $6,000 price tag requires serious consideration, the performance benefits are substantial:
On-Road Characteristics
- Pillowy, luxurious ride quality
- Improved small bump compliance over the 2.5 system
- Maintained composure without wallowing
Off-Road Performance
- Drastically improved medium and large bump handling
- More forgiving ride across all speeds
- Better recovery from compression events
- Enhanced confidence in varying terrain
The 3.0 system particularly shines in its rebound control, which appears to be tuned for slower wheel droop compared to the 2.5 system. This characteristic allows the suspension to better manage successive impacts and maintain stability at higher speeds.
Supporting Modifications
When upgrading to higher-performance packages, particularly the King 2.5 or Dominator 3.0, consider these supporting modifications to ensure your truck can handle the increased capability:
- EMF ball joints (serviceable and greaseable)
- abricated radius arms
- Synergy drag link and tie rod
- Steering box brace
- Carli track bar
- Limit straps
- Axle trussing
These components help prevent the suspension from becoming the weak link in your vehicle's performance envelope.
Choosing The Right System
Consider these factors when selecting your system:
Choose the Commuter if you:
- Want the most dramatic improvement over stock
- Need a reliable daily driver with improved off-road capability
- Have a modest budget
Consider the Backcountry if you:
- Prioritize comfort over handling
- Don't regularly carry heavy loads
- Out all day in the dirt regularly
Opt for the King 2.5 if you:
- Need the best balance of daily driving characteristics and performance
- Regularly tow or haul
- Want improved off-road capability without compromise
Invest in the Dominator 3.0 if you:
- Frequently push your truck hard while off-road
- Want the ultimate in suspension performance
- Don't mind paying premium for capability
- Need maximum confidence in varying terrain
Remember, these systems are designed to complement each other's strengths, and your choice should align with your specific use case and requirements.
Conclusion
Each Carli suspension system offers distinct advantages, with clear progression in performance and capability as you move up the range. While the Commuter system provides the most dramatic improvement over stock, the King 2.5 hits the sweet spot for most users. The Dominator 3.0 stands alone in ultimate performance but requires careful consideration of its premium price point.
Consider your typical use case, budget, and performance requirements when making your selection. Whichever system you choose, Carli's attention to tuning and system integration ensures significant improvements over stock suspension performance.
