Won't hardly spin wheels when stuck in mud

[Glade H Gentry]

I just purchased a 2018 Dodge Ram Tradesman Cummings 6.7 with 15,000 miles. Last night a wheel line had crossed the highway from high winds leaving it diagonally across the road. I was forced to drive off into a freshly plowed field (farming area). Knowing the field would be fluffy, and not wanting to get stuck I maintained momentum until I made to the other end of the wheel line (a long way). The engines power acted as though it was bogging through the field; of course, this is understandable because of the resistance of the freshly plowed field, but the engines power was not reacting to the amount of fuel I was giving it. After stopping and in a hurry to get back up on the road to stop traffic I had to climb out of the ditch. Once again gutless. I've experienced this same lack of power before on another time when I driving through a lot of mud. The trucks info panel does say that I need to replace the fuel filters. Keep in mind that when I pull trailers and drive sensibly on the highway there is no perceptible lack of power. I realize this is a mystery that may be solved by replacing the fuel filters; and I will soon as can. What do you think could be the reason for this lack of power (unable to spin tires in thick mud) could be?

 

[WilliamS]

Traction control? Were you in 4x4, was traction control light on. If TC is on and you are trying to spin the tires, it pulls power till traction is gained. 4low will disable that, as well from on you can hold the TC button about 5 seconds and it will give you a warning its been disabled on the dash.

 

[stimpy433]

Do you have traction control??? If so, push the button to turn it off and then you should be able to spin the tires. I know when I have mine on it limits the over revving which keeps your tires from spinning excessively.

 

[Glade H Gentry]

This makes perfect since. I could't disable TC (no panic button), or engage into four wheel drive, or think to do much of anything at that moment. A fellow is limited in all that thinking stuff while traveling 65 mph in a plowed field, and wanting to stop traffic and such. Sounds like a good feature, but stole the power I needed at the time.

 

[BWL]

Yes. Been there done that. Traction control will cut you right down until you get grip. Have to disable it in situations that require wheel spin.

 

[Glade H Gentry]

I appreciate you helping me understand my truck. I will most likely disable it for my use. Thanks again.

 

[Burla]

Do you have an open differential? Are you 100% sure that one tire wasn't spinning? At least if you have it in 4x4 it will let you know for sure it is a power issue and not the open diff doing what it does when one wheel spins. I think even with a 2500 maybe a tradesman is an open diff? What's your window sticker say. Just a total guess, but if you have an open diff that would be the most likley culprit imo. If you don't have a regular or open diff, that rules it out for sure. Then it could be something even more sinister, don't even want to think it.