Full Size Truck Overland Build For Ram

Start With The Right Ram Platform

A full size truck overland build begins with honest weight planning. Half ton Ram 1500 models ride well and deliver better fuel economy, but payload can be modest depending on trim. Heavy duty Ram 2500 and 3500 options offer stronger frames, beefier axles, and higher payload that tolerates armor, campers, and tools without stressing components. Wheelbase affects breakover and departure angles, while cab configuration influences bed volume and interior storage. Choose a platform that fits your typical load, not the rare trip.

Payload, GVWR, And Weight Budget

Know your curb weight and gross vehicle weight rating, then set a realistic payload plan. Add armor, winch, drawers, rack, water, fuel, fridge, power system, tent, tools, and passengers to see where you land. Staying within ratings preserves handling, braking, and drivetrain health. Heavy duty springs and shocks do not increase legal payload; they simply manage the weight you are allowed to carry.

Gearing, Lockers, And Tow Packages

Bigger tires change effective gearing and can dull throttle response. Trucks equipped with deeper axle ratios handle larger tires more gracefully. Factory rear lockers or limited slip differentials help on loose climbs, while tow packages usually add cooling and brakes that benefit overland use even when you are not towing.

Suspension, Tires, And Steering That Travel Well

Suspension should aim for control and comfort with loaded weight, not just height. Quality dampers matched to your final mass reduce heat fade on corrugated tracks and keep the truck planted. Leveling can work if you keep added weight modest; otherwise consider balanced front and rear spring rates. Alignment matters. Preserve caster for high speed stability, set toe correctly for tire life, and avoid excessive wheel offset that overworks bearings.

Tire Size And Construction

A true all terrain tire with a strong carcass is the sweet spot for mixed travel. Many Ram builds settle on 34 to 35 inch diameters for better clearance without excessive mass. Load range and sidewall design affect ride and puncture resistance. Select tread that sheds mud yet remains quiet on long highway stretches.

Brakes, Cooling, And Driveline Angles

Extra mass demands reliable braking. Fresh pads, rotors in good condition, and clean fluid are non negotiable. Keep cooling systems maintained to handle desert climbs with the air conditioner running. If you lift the truck, verify driveline angles and check for vibration under load.

Protection, Recovery, And Self Sufficiency

Armor starts where you most often strike. Front bumpers protect radiators and allow a winch mount. Skid plates guard engine, transmission, and transfer case. Rock sliders defend sills on tight trails. Choose components with reasonable weight for your platform and trip style.

Recovery Planning

A winch sized for a full size truck, tree saver, snatch block, soft shackles, and quality straps form the core kit. Pair that with rated recovery points front and rear. Add onboard air for airing down and back up, and a tire repair kit for quick fixes in the field.

Power, Water, And Lighting

A dual battery or lithium house system supports a fridge, comms, and camp lighting. A DC to DC charger ensures proper alternator charging on modern trucks. A simple water system with filtration covers cooking and cleanup. Use targeted scene lighting around camp and reserve a forward light for cautious night approaches rather than speed.

Storage, Bed Systems, And Camp Comfort

The bed is your overland closet. Drawer systems keep tools and kitchen gear accessible without building a heavy tower. Low profile bed racks support a tent or canopy while preserving rearward visibility. If you add a canopy camper, confirm weight and center of gravity with your suspension plan. Inside the cab, a clean mounting solution for navigation and comms keeps wires tidy and safe.

Range, Navigation, And Legalities

Plan fuel range around your longest remote stretch. Auxiliary cans or a larger tank increase reach but also add mass. Keep maps offline, carry paper backups, and confirm land use rules before you go. Weigh the truck periodically to verify you remain within ratings, including axle limits.

When You Want It Built Right

If you want your Ram set up once and set up correctly, our team builds practical rigs that stand up to real travel. Explore our approach to capable, balanced setups on the overland rigs page. For tailored components and installation, see our custom overland upfit process, and learn how we collaborate with owners on why choose OZK Customs.

Bring Your Ram To Life

You tell us where you travel, how many people ride along, and what you carry. We translate that into suspension tuning, armor, storage, and power that simply works. From layout to final shakedown, OZK Customs focuses on reliability and comfort so your first trip feels like your tenth.