2026 Ram 3500 High Output Cummins Specs
1,075 lb-ft of Torque Explained
If you are buying a Ram 3500, you are likely chasing one number: Torque.
For 2026, the Ram 3500 retains its crown as the torque monster of the consumer truck market. While the standard diesel engine is impressive, the 6.7L High Output (HO) Cummins® Turbo Diesel is the reason this truck can pull 37,000+ lbs without breaking a sweat.
But what makes the "High Output" different from the standard diesel found in the Ram 2500? Is it just a software tune? (Hint: No, it is hardware). And what is the "Aisin" transmission everyone talks about? This guide strips away the marketing fluff and gives you the raw engineering specs.
The Heart: 6.7L High Output Cummins I-6
HO Exclusive Hardware Upgrades:
To handle the extra 225 lb-ft of torque over the standard version, Cummins engineers reinforced the internal components:
- Lower Compression Ratio (16.2:1): The HO runs lower compression than the standard output (19:1). This allows the turbo to push more boost without blowing the head gasket.
- Graphite Compacted Iron (CGI) Block: The block material is stronger and lighter than traditional cast iron to withstand the immense cylinder pressures.
- Flow-Optimized Fuel Injectors: The fuel system is calibrated to deliver higher flow rates for sustained high-load towing up steep grades like the Arbuckle Mountains.
The standard Cummins is great, but the High Output version is built for "Severe Duty" life. It produces 430 Horsepower and a earth-moving 1,075 lb-ft of Torque.
The Muscle: Aisin AS69RC Transmission
This is the most critical difference. The Standard Output Cummins uses the Chrysler-built 68RFE transmission. The High Output Cummins uses the Aisin AS69RC.
- What is it? Aisin Seiki is a Japanese manufacturer that builds transmissions for medium-duty commercial trucks (think box trucks and dump trucks).
- Why it matters: The Aisin AS69RC is physically massive. It has a larger input shaft, a larger output shaft, and a thicker case than the 68RFE.
- Performance: It has a steeper first gear (3.75:1) for getting heavy loads moving and a more robust torque converter lock-up strategy. When you hear a Ram 3500 shifting firmly and decisively under load, that is the Aisin doing its job.
Spec Showdown: High Output vs. Standard Output
| Feature | Standard Output Cummins | High Output (HO) Cummins |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 370 hp | 430 hp |
| Torque | 850 lb-ft | 1,075 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 68RFE (6-Speed Auto) | Aisin AS69RC (6-Speed Auto) |
| Rear Axle Ring Gear | 11.5-Inch | 12-Inch (Massive) |
| Max Towing | ~22,000 lbs | 37,090 lbs |
| Availability | 2500 & 3500 | 3500 Only (and select 2500s) |
Final Verdict
The 2026 Ram 3500 High Output isn't just a truck; it's a Class 5 commercial vehicle disguised as a luxury pickup. At Johnsons of Kingfisher, we specialize in these high-torque builds. We stock the filters, fluids, and parts to keep the Aisin transmission shifting smooth for the long haul.
* The advertised price does not include sales tax, vehicle registration fees, other fees required by law, finance charges and any documentation charges. A negotiable administration fee, up to $115, may be added to the price of the vehicle.
* Images, prices, and options shown, including vehicle color, trim, options, pricing and other specifications are subject to availability, incentive offerings, current pricing and credit worthiness.
* Price does not include $89 doc fee.