From Rebel to Power: My Off-Road Evolution
- segurooffroad
- Oct 15, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 22
Seguro Files 002
I had begun my adventuring by attempting to hike every mountain range surrounding the metropolitan area of Phoenix. I had reached the limits of my commuter car and required a vehicle capable of reaching remote mountain ranges. Factoring in gas mileage, gas prices, and upkeep costs, I was hesitant to invest in a truck. Opting to lease a vehicle, to give me an option to return it, I leased a 2019 Ram Rebel. My adventures in the Rebel quickly escalated into bigger risks, where I knew I would need to purchase the vehicle. Factoring in the lease terms and buyout price, it would be cheaper to break the lease and purchase it outright.
My last ride in the Rebel would take place Christmas weekend. I had spent years being financially responsible. I knew my next move would not be a smart financial decision. I had to go on a drive to ensure I would not regret this decision in the future. Knowing that vehicles are not investments, a purchase of this size had to have some personal value. In less than 30 days, I had traveled Sedona's red rocks, the Four Peaks mountain range, Black Canyon City, and had many more locations on my to-do list!
I found myself back at the dealership on January 1st, 2020. As we discussed the final prices, the salesmen tried to upsell me. The Ram Rebel was already at the high end of the Ram lineup at that time. This particular dealership happened to have two white Ram Power Wagons on the lot. I had previously researched the platform and knew it had all the features I wanted on a truck. The Rebel came with a rear locking differential, electronic 4x4, and an air bag system to raise the truck two inches higher. However, the Power Wagon came with front and rear locking differentials, a disconnecting sway bar, a Warn winch, and a manual transfer case. This meant that when it came to off-roading, I wouldn't be relying on electronics to engage and disengage four-wheel drive. I still haven't gone into the details of the straight front axle versus independent front suspension. There are many articles that cover these differences, written by better authors. If you're interested, go check them out! I believed the Power Wagon was outside my price range and had never considered it as an option. I also thought it was too much truck for my needs. After looking at the cost of the Rebel with penalties, I ended up being right under a brand new Power Wagon's price range. At this point, I said, 'If I'm already paying this much, why don't I get more truck for my money?' I knew I would eventually reach the limitations of an IFS, no winch, and only rear lockers. I decided to commit and purchase all the components I would eventually want in one package! The salesman was definitely new to Ram and had no idea what we were negotiating. I knew this because I would mention features specific to the Power Wagon, and he would nod and agree. Being the beginning of a new year and the 2020 inventory coming in helped me get a 2019 Power Wagon for five thousand dollars more than the Rebel would have cost me—an incredible deal!
Enter a Ram Power Wagon! I wasted no time after purchasing the Power Wagon. Leading into 2020, I was already planning a deer hunt in Arizona. The morning after the purchase, I packed all my hunting gear and headed to a remote spot to zero in my rifle, which means to adjust the sights for accurate shooting. I look back at this time and laugh. Most people are cautious with a new vehicle, trying to preserve its value for as long as possible. From the photos, you can imagine my inner monologue: 'Watch the trees! Avoid the puddles!' In the photo below, I believed I was testing out the disconnecting sway bar! Knowing what I know now, this truck had far more to offer than I had imagined!
From a financially responsible explorer to a full-size, heavy-duty traveler. What began as a desire for a Jeep eventually led to a Ram 1500, and then a Ram HD 2500. Many decisions were made in a short period. From being tentative with a lease to knowing I needed to purchase the truck, I quickly abandoned hesitation and ideal decision-making. I had no idea how much this purchase would change the next chapter of my life. Be sure to sign up for email notifications as I share how I went from a timid new truck owner to being featured in the December 2022 issue of Four Wheeler magazine, a prominent off-road publication!
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