From 2003-2009, the 3rd Generation Ram 2500/3500 with the 5.9 or 6.7 Cummins (a.k.a the 3rd Gen Cummins) was an extremely popular choice for new truck buyers.
Building on the 2nd Gen Cummins' (1994-2002) success, the 3rd Gen took the Cummins platform to a whole new level. Even in 2025, the 2003-2009 Ram 2500/3500 has an extremely loyal following—and if you look close, it's easy to see why.
The Mighty Common-Rail Cummins
One of the primary drivers of the 3rd Gen's popularity is the common-rail 5.9 Cummins—first introduced to Ram trucks for the 2003 model year. Common-rail technology delivered a degree of efficiency, power, and potential never seen before in Ram trucks.
As soon as common-rail Rams hit the dealer lot in 2003, owners started tinkering with them to extract more power—and boy, did they succeed.
Widely regarded as one of the best engines on earth for making power, the common-rail 5.9 and 6.7 Cummins (introduced in 2007) are just a few modifications away from 600+ horsepower.
In fact, building a 5.9 or 6.7 common rail Cummins to 1,000+hp is so common (notice we didn't say cheap) there are actual power recipes available online. A simple Google or Facebook search for "how to make 1,000hp with my Cummins" will return dozens of results telling you exactly how to get there.
6-Speed Manuals and 48REs
Another reason the 3rd Gen Cummins gets so much love is the various transmission options that were available during it's production run, including:
- 48RE Automatic
- 68RFE Automatic
- NV5600 6-Speed Manual
- G56 6-Speed Manual
While the 4th Generation Cummins (2010-2018) also retained the G56 6-speed manual, 5th Gen Cummins (2019+) dropped the manual option altogether. 3rd Gen Cummins owners, by comparison, can choose from a variety of transmission options, both automatic and manual.
It's worth noting that the 48RE has also gained a massive following in the diesel performance world. Once built with aftermarket components, the 48RE can withstand obscene amounts of power, and consistent use in competitive environments.
Hundreds (if not thousands) of 1,000+hp diesel trucks utilize the 48RE to compete in a wide variety of motorsports.
Curb Appeal for DAYS
This is probably the most controversial selling point of the 3rd Gen Cummins—the looks. While many folks (this author included) think the 3rd Gen looks incredible, some people can't stand them.
To be fair, many of the "haters" are split—some prefer the 2003-2005 body style, while others think the updated 2006-2009 trucks look significantly better.
Regardless, all of us at FASS Motorsports think the 3rd Gen Cummins, no matter the year, is one of the best looking Rams of all time. Even with minor upgrades like wheels, tires, and a leveling kit—it doesn't take much to make a 3rd Gen Ram look like a mean street machine.
Upgrade your 3rd Gen Cummins at FASS Motorsports
If you've been thinking about some upgrades for your 2003-2009 Ram 2500/3500, give us a shout! We stock and install the best brands in industry, including but not limited to:
- American Force Wheels
- BDS Suspension
- Carli Suspension
- Diode Dynamics
- Edge Products
- FOX
- Fury Tires
- ICON Vehicle Dynamics
- KING Shocks
- KMC Wheels
- KG1 Forged Wheels
- Nitto Tires
- And many, many more!
If you're near Franklin County, Missouri, you're also welcome to visit our show room! We're located at:
FASS Motorsports
25 Town and Country Drive
Washington, MO 63090
Our team is also available by phone at (636) 429-7020, or via email at info@fassmotorsports.com. Thanks for reading!