043 | RAM TRX Is Back With 777 HP — Are Street Trucks Making a Comeback?

“Ram” refers to Ram Trucks, which produces pickup trucks, and the podcast mentions it in the context of the Ram name being used for trucks. The episode also ties it back to the idea of the Ram SRT 10 and the V10 connection. That’s why Ram comes up alongside the Viper discussion.

Rear suspension is the set of components that controls how the back of a truck moves over bumps and how it keeps the tires planted. The host specifically contrasts two designs—spring suspension versus leaf springs—because they can feel different in ride comfort and handling.

Spring suspension refers to using coil springs (or similar spring elements) in the rear suspension rather than leaf springs. Coil-spring setups are often associated with a smoother ride because they can better control wheel movement and damping characteristics.

Leaf springs are a traditional truck suspension design that uses stacked metal strips to support the axle. They’re durable and can handle heavy loads, but they can feel less refined than coil-spring setups in terms of ride comfort.

A mini toolbox in the side fender is an integrated storage compartment built into the truck’s bodywork. It’s designed to keep small tools and gear accessible, but the host notes it can require reducing the usable bed space to package the structure.

The truck bed is the cargo area behind the cab where you haul items. The host explains that adding an integrated fender toolbox can force packaging changes that reduce bed space compared with a “normal” bed layout.

An aftermarket toolbox is a storage box installed by a third party (not originally built into the truck). The host compares the factory-style fender storage concept to what happens when you add an aftermarket toolbox to the end of the truck.

“Hemi” refers to Chrysler’s hemispherical combustion-chamber engine design, which helps airflow and combustion efficiency. The host uses it to explain why early-2000s Dodge Ram trucks had standout power compared with other trucks of similar size.

Emissions are regulated pollutants that vehicles produce, and stricter rules can force automakers to change engines or tuning. Here, the host connects emissions pressure to uncertainty about whether the TRX could continue.

The Dodge Challenger is a classic American muscle car known for its powerful V8 options and long-running popularity. It often comes up in discussions about how performance cars adapt to emissions rules and changing regulations. That’s why it’s mentioned alongside talk of “changing” and “charger challenger” in the episode.

The host is referring to Dodge’s Charger and Challenger muscle-car line, which are being discussed as part of the brand’s broader engine and platform changes. In this segment, that context is used to explain why people thought the TRX might be affected.

The “Hurricane V6” is a specific engine family name used by Stellantis for a V6 powerplant. The host contrasts it with a straight-six discussion, highlighting how the new engine lineup is part of the brand’s shift in powertrains.

A straight-six is an engine layout where all six cylinders are arranged in a single line. The host brings it up while discussing the “Hurricane V6,” and then compares it to how BMW and Mercedes have used straight-six engines historically.

The “E90 generation M3” refers to the BMW M3 built on the E90 3 Series platform. It’s mentioned as an example of a BMW-era straight-six performance car that enthusiasts love.

The BMW 3 Series is a compact luxury sedan that’s known for balancing everyday usability with sporty driving. In the podcast, it’s referenced in connection with the E90-generation M3, which is a high-performance version of the 3 Series line. That makes it a natural topic when discussing iconic BMW performance models.

The TRX refers to the Ram TRX, a performance pickup built around a high-output V8 and a “supertruck” approach to power and traction. Here, the host says Ram is bringing the TRX back with 777 horsepower, framing it as a comeback for street-focused performance trucks.

The Ram SRT 10 is a high-performance Ram pickup that’s best known for using a V10 engine originally associated with the Dodge Viper. It’s a key reference point in the “street truck” era because it proved a pickup could be built for serious straight-line power, not just towing.

The Dodge Viper is an extreme American sports car known for its big V10 engine and raw, performance-first character. The podcast references the Viper’s V10 when comparing it to other vehicles, which shows how distinctive its engine choice is. It’s discussed because it’s a memorable, enthusiast-focused car rather than a mainstream daily driver.

Ram is the truck brand name used for Ram Trucks, and the podcast connects it back to the Ram SRT 10 idea. That reference is tied to the same V10 performance theme mentioned with the Viper. It comes up because Ram has had special high-performance truck variants that stand out.

A V10 is an engine with ten cylinders arranged in a “V” shape, typically giving it a distinctive sound and strong high-RPM power. In performance trucks and supercars, the V10 layout is often chosen to deliver big displacement without going to a V12.

An automatic transmission shifts gears without the driver operating a clutch pedal. The host contrasts automatics with manual versions of the Ram SRT 10, suggesting that automatic-equipped trucks were more common, while manuals were the rarer enthusiast pick.

A manual transmission is a gearbox where the driver selects gears using a clutch pedal and a shift lever. In the context of the Ram SRT 10, the host is pointing out that manual versions existed but were rarer than automatics, which affects enthusiast interest and auction desirability.

The speaker is referring to the Ford Lightning, a performance-focused version of the F-150 pickup. In the early 2000s, it’s known for using a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 to make a street-friendly “hot truck” feel.

A supercharged V8 is an engine where a forced-induction system (the supercharger) pushes extra air into the cylinders. That lets the 5.4-liter V8 make more power than the same engine without boost.

Flared fenders are widened body panels that cover more tire width. They’re commonly used to fit wider wheels/tires and give a more aggressive, “stance” look.

Street tires are designed primarily for pavement grip, comfort, and predictable handling on dry and wet roads. They typically aren’t as aggressive or durable as off-road tires meant for mud and rocks.

“Brian O’Connor special” is a pop-culture reference to the character Brian O’Conner from The Fast and the Furious. The speaker uses it to describe a street-focused, movie-inspired “hot truck” vibe rather than a true off-road setup.

The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck that’s widely sold and used for everything from daily driving to work tasks. The podcast mentions it in the context of big, high-performance variants like the Raptor or TRX and also references larger models like the F-350. That’s why it’s brought up—because it’s the base platform for many different “types” of trucks.

The Ford F-350 is a heavy-duty pickup built for towing and payload work. Here it’s grouped with the Raptor and TRX as another “big truck” contractors use while showing off branding and stance.

“Tax right off” is shorthand for deducting business expenses from taxable income. In this context, the speaker is describing how some contractors treat expensive trucks as business write-offs.

Scat Pack is a Dodge performance trim level name that typically indicates a more powerful engine and sportier tuning than the base model. The host compares it to how Dodge used tiered names on the Challenger/Charger lineup, implying similar “street performance” positioning for trucks.

“Hellcat” is Dodge’s high-performance model/trim name associated with very large horsepower V8 engines and track-capable tuning. The host is using it as an example of how Dodge’s performance tiers (RT/SRT/Scat Pack/Hellcat) are now being echoed in truck versions.

A “street version” refers to a factory trim or package tuned for on-road driving—typically lower ride height, less off-road hardware, and styling/performance aimed at everyday use. In the segment, the host contrasts these with more traditional lifted, off-road-oriented truck setups.

The Honda Stream is a people-focused vehicle (a family-oriented model) that the podcast mentions in the same breath as the Tacoma’s “street version” idea. The reference suggests the conversation is about different trims and how manufacturers market practical vehicles for everyday use. It comes up as part of that broader “what was available” discussion.

“Pre-runners” are off-road-oriented trucks (often based on a 4x4 platform) configured without a full-time four-wheel-drive system for desert-style driving. They’re typically associated with lifted suspension, skid protection, and aggressive tires, aiming for off-road durability rather than street comfort.

A “lower stance” means the vehicle sits closer to the ground, usually from lowering springs/coilovers or a factory street package. The host frames it as the key difference between an off-road-capable setup and a street-focused version that can’t go “too extreme” for off-road clearance.

A supercharger is an engine-mounted forced-induction device that compresses incoming air so the engine can burn more fuel and make more power. It’s different from a turbocharger in how it’s driven, but both aim to increase horsepower by increasing air density.

A turbocharger is a forced-induction system that uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which compresses the intake air. That denser air helps the engine produce more power without increasing engine size.

The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for strong acceleration and a reputation for being capable in real-world driving. The podcast references it as something people seek out specifically, including a mention of “Mexican GTR,” which points to how the car can be a targeted purchase. It’s discussed because it’s one of the most recognizable performance models in the Z/GT tradition.

In car culture, “fly under the radar” means keeping your vehicle’s modifications subtle enough that it draws less attention from law enforcement or others. The host connects it to avoiding flashy visuals and loud exhaust that can increase the chance of being noticed or pulled over.

SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) is a major U.S. trade show where automakers and aftermarket companies showcase concept vehicles, performance parts, and customization trends. It’s especially known for “street truck” and off-road build ideas.

An automotive “platform” is a shared set of engineering underpinnings—like chassis architecture and major components—that multiple models can use. The host argues that reusing a platform is cheaper and faster, which is why manufacturers create many versions of the same base vehicle.

A suspension kit is an aftermarket package that changes how the truck’s suspension works—often including components like springs, shocks/struts, and sometimes control arms. In this context, it’s used to explain how lifting or “sporting up” a truck can be done by swapping suspension parts rather than redesigning the whole vehicle.

In truck customization, a “lift” means raising the vehicle’s ride height by changing suspension components. The host is describing the common truck mod path: lift the truck, then adjust wheels/tires and related suspension parts to match the new stance.

The Chevrolet Corvette is a performance sports car known for its strong engine options and its long history as a flagship American road car. The podcast brings up the car’s layout—whether it’s rear-engine or mid-engine—because the Corvette’s engine placement is a key part of how it drives. That’s why it’s a frequent subject in driving and car-nerd conversations.

Ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel that can be blended with gasoline (often as E85, for example). Some performance cars are designed to run on ethanol blends because it can support higher power when the engine is calibrated for it.

In this context, “batteries” refers to the high-voltage battery pack used to provide electric power alongside the engine. The host is describing a hybrid-style setup where the car can use both fuel and electricity.

“All in one” here is being used as a shorthand for a combined power approach—fuel (ethanol) plus electric power—rather than a single traditional power source. The host is implying the system is designed to do multiple energy modes together.

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is a performance-focused sports car known for its V8 power and track-capable character. In this segment, the host compares the Corvette’s base V8 to the Cadillac CT5 V, using engine type as the common thread.

The Cadillac CT5 is a midsize luxury sedan from Cadillac, and in this discussion it’s being compared based on its engine layout. The host says it’s still a regular V8 (not a flat-plane setup), which matters because V8 architecture affects how the engine sounds and how it delivers power.

The Chevrolet Camaro is a long-running American muscle and pony car known for V8 performance in many model years. The episode references it in the context of engine choices and how the lineup has changed over time. That makes it relevant when discussing what “Camaro” means to enthusiasts and how it’s evolved.

The Chevrolet Impala is a long-running full-size sedan nameplate. Here it’s mentioned as part of an era when the host says those mainstream Chevy models didn’t have V8 engines, unlike the higher-performance GM brands.

The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan nameplate. In this segment it’s used as another example of mainstream Chevy models that, according to the host, didn’t come with V8 engines in that era.

The Chevrolet Caprice is a full-size car that has been used as a comfortable, practical vehicle in the past. The podcast mentions it alongside the Chevy SS, indicating a comparison of older GM-era sedans people remember. It comes up because it’s a nostalgia and “what we used to have” type of reference.

The “Chevy SS” refers to the Chevrolet SS, a performance-oriented sedan that was sold in the U.S. in the 2010s. The host brings it up as an example of a Chevy that could be V8-powered, contrasting it with other GM sedans that didn’t use V8s.

The Pontiac GTO is a classic muscle-car nameplate associated with V8 performance. The host mentions it alongside the Pontiac G8 as a sedan/powertrain example, saying they likely shared the same motor.

The Pontiac G8 is a performance-oriented sedan that was sold in the U.S. in the late 2000s. The host describes it as a sedan and suggests it used the same motor as the Pontiac GTO, which is relevant to why it was considered a “dream car.”

The Scion tC is a compact, sporty coupe from Scion (Toyota’s youth brand) that became popular for being practical while still feeling fun to drive. In this segment, it’s mentioned as a “dream car,” specifically tied to reliability and getting the speaker to work without breakdowns.

The fuel pump is the component that moves gasoline from the tank to the engine. In this segment, the host repeats a common tip: keeping the tank from getting too low helps the fuel pump stay cooled and reduces the risk of the pump drawing in air.

Fuel filters are parts that trap dirt and debris before the fuel reaches the engine and fuel system. If you regularly run the tank very low, you can stir up sediment at the bottom, which can increase how much gunk the filters have to catch.

Topping off is the practice of filling past the normal shutoff point after the pump clicks off. It can increase the chance of fuel spillage and can contribute to evaporative emissions issues because the system is designed around a specific fuel level range.

Fuel cards are payment cards used to buy fuel for work vehicles, often tied to a company account. They can make it easier to track fuel spending and restrict purchases to certain stations or fuel types.

Diesel is a fuel used in many trucks and commercial vehicles because diesel engines are typically efficient under heavy loads. In the transcript, it’s contrasted with gasoline to explain why filling up can cost more.

The Tesla Semi is an electric semi-truck designed for long-haul freight. The podcast references the cost of charging to illustrate how operating an electric truck can differ from fueling a diesel truck. It’s discussed because electric trucking is a major shift in how commercial vehicles run.

A semi truck is a tractor unit that pulls a trailer, commonly used for long-haul freight. It typically has very large fuel tanks, which is why the transcript’s “quarter tank” still translates to a huge number of gallons.

American Truck Simulator is a driving simulation game focused on operating commercial trucks. The transcript describes it as trying to be realistic about truck driving tasks like shifting and refueling.

CDL stands for Commercial Driver’s License, which is required to drive many large vehicles like semi trucks. The transcript connects CDL to the idea of being a truck driver in the simulator.

CB radio (Citizens Band radio) is a short-range two-way radio system used by drivers to communicate. In the transcript, it’s referenced as a feature in the game that mimics real-world trucker communication.

“Fuel prices” refers to the cost of gasoline or diesel per unit (like per gallon). In trucking and rideshare, higher fuel prices directly increase operating costs, which can change whether drivers still make money.

EV stands for electric vehicle. The host argues that if you’re driving an EV for Uber, you’re “probably winning” because electricity can be cheaper and more predictable than gasoline.

The Ford Mustang is a highly popular American sports car that’s been a mainstay for decades, with many different trims and performance levels. In the podcast, it’s mentioned in the context of shopping at a Ford dealer and possibly choosing a specific Mustang model. That’s why it comes up as a common “go look at one” car for buyers.

The Nissan Altima is a mainstream midsize sedan known for being practical and affordable to run, which is why it’s often used as a daily driver. In this segment, the host mentions an Altima specifically in an Uber context, highlighting how it was chosen for cost and usability rather than performance.

“Uber spec” is a shorthand for a ride-share-focused setup: a car chosen for low hassle, easy maintenance, and comfortable, durable interior materials for frequent passenger use. It usually implies a practical trim (often cloth seats) rather than a luxury or performance-oriented configuration.

This is the idea of “purpose-built” buying: choosing a vehicle based on the job it needs to do, not just personal preference. The host compares it to buying a tool like a hammer or shovel—if it fits the task, the details matter less.

The Datsun 240Z is a classic sports car from Nissan’s early Z-car era, known for its timeless styling and enthusiast following. The podcast references a “240Z guy” who traveled with the car, which highlights how the model can become a personal passion project. It’s discussed because it represents the roots of the Z-car identity.

“Gas hog” is a slang term for a vehicle that burns a lot of fuel, especially under heavy load. In this segment, it’s used to describe towing-heavy driving, where fuel consumption climbs quickly.

“Tow and capacity” refers to a truck’s maximum towing capability—how much weight it’s designed to pull safely. It’s usually limited by factors like engine power, transmission cooling, brakes, and suspension.

“Mileage” here means fuel economy (miles per gallon), and the speaker contrasts empty cruising versus towing. Towing increases aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, which typically reduces highway MPG.

Buttonwillow is a motorsports road course in California where drivers often attend track days and events. The speaker mentions it to illustrate how far they’d have to travel and how towing would affect fuel costs.

The Mazda MX-5, commonly called the Miata, is a lightweight two-seat roadster focused on fun handling and an engaging driving feel. The episode groups it with other small two-door sports cars, suggesting it’s a realistic option for someone who wants a car that’s not too big or complicated. That’s why it’s mentioned in a “what could be your only car?” type of conversation.

In car talk, “miles” usually refers to odometer mileage—how many miles the car has been driven. Higher mileage often affects resale value and can correlate with wear, depending on maintenance history.

In this context, “analog” means the car is more mechanically and dynamically straightforward—less reliant on modern electronic driver aids and infotainment. The speaker contrasts it with newer cars that feel more “techie,” arguing that some buyers now prefer the simpler, more engaging feel.

“Tech” in car discussions usually means modern electronic features—infotainment, driver-assistance systems, and other software-driven components. The speaker is saying the older car had less of that, and that buyers are increasingly valuing the more straightforward experience.

The Nissan 350Z is a late-2000s-era sports coupe known for its analog, driver-focused feel and strong real-world performance. In this segment, Chris is talking about how the 350Z’s value is rising because clean, unmodified examples are becoming harder to find.

A convertible is a body style with a retractable roof, typically trading some structural rigidity and added weight for open-air driving. Chris notes that convertibles are often the least modified examples, implying they’re more likely to remain “untouched” than other variants.

Mid-range torque is the twisting force an engine makes at the middle of its RPM range, where it’s most useful for everyday acceleration. Chris is using it to explain why the 370Z feels “dangerously fast” compared with the 350Z—because it pulls strongly without needing to rev extremely high.

The speaker mentions an Infiniti M35, an Infiniti luxury sedan. They’re using it as a personal reference point for how the infotainment and tech features changed between model years (07 vs 08).

Infotainment is the car’s combined information and entertainment system—typically the touchscreen, navigation, media controls, and phone/voice integration. The speaker is comparing how infotainment differed between model years on the Infiniti M35.

Bluetooth is a wireless connection used to pair a phone with the car so you can stream audio or use hands-free calling. The speaker is describing the workaround of using a Bluetooth-capable setup when the factory radio/head unit doesn’t support it.

“Receiver things” here refers to aftermarket wireless audio receivers that let you add phone connectivity (like Bluetooth) to an older factory radio. It’s a common retrofit approach when the original head unit lacks modern connectivity.

The head unit is the main electronics module for the car’s audio and infotainment controls (radio, media, and screen interface). The speaker says you can replace the head unit itself to add modern features like Bluetooth.

The host is specifically talking about a twin-turbo Nissan 300ZX. They argue that the twin-turbo version can be more complex and therefore more prone to problems, so it’s something you’d want to buy only if it’s in great condition and you’ll maintain it carefully.

Deferred maintenance means postponing scheduled repairs and service until later. The host is using it to explain why an older Z (especially a twin-turbo 300ZX) can become unreliable: neglected issues compound over time.

Wheel alignment is the adjustment of how the tires sit relative to the road—angles like camber, caster, and toe. If alignment is off, the car can feel unstable, pull, or cause abnormal tire wear, and it can also make suspension issues feel worse.

A “check engine” light is the dashboard warning that the engine control system has detected a fault and stored a diagnostic trouble code. The host is using it as a quick indicator of whether the car is throwing measurable problems versus only having feel-based issues like noise or harshness.

Drivetrain lash is the small amount of free play or slack in the powertrain—between components like the transmission, driveshaft, and differential. When it’s noticeable, you can feel a clunk or delay when shifting hard because the drivetrain takes up that slack before torque fully transfers.