The Top 3 Half-Ton Powertrains to Buy in 2026 | Engine, Transmission & Axle Ratio

I rank the top Powertrains in the 1500/Half-Ton Pick up truck segment for 2026. I give the Best Engine, Transmission and Axle Ratio Combo you can buy for a half-ton

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What I Use:
6.4L HEMI
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WIX Engine Oil Filter - https://www.amsoil.com/p/wix-oil-filt...
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Grease - https://www.amsoil.com/p/amsoil-100-s...
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What I Use:
7.3L POWERSTROKE
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Grease - https://www.amsoil.com/p/amsoil-100-s...

Towing Gear:
10 ton Pintle hitch (2.5" receiver) - https://amzn.to/3r7Axvm
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15 Ton Pintle hitch - https://amzn.to/45SaCqv
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In this video, I break down my Top 3 powertrain picks for the 2026 half-ton (1500) truck segment, based on real-world driving, towing, ownership experience, and long-term reliability — not spec-sheet racing.

When people shop for a truck, they obsess over horsepower numbers, but the truth is the engine, transmission, and axle ratio working together matter far more than any single stat. That’s exactly why this video focuses on complete powertrain combinations, not just engines in isolation.

One of the biggest themes you’ll hear throughout this ranking is just how much of a game changer the ZF 8-speed transmission really is. Smooth, durable, well-tuned, and proven across multiple brands, it completely transforms how a truck drives, tows, and puts power to the ground.

These picks are about balance — reliability, drivability, real torque delivery, gearing, and how these trucks actually perform in everyday use, towing, and long-term ownership. Some of these choices may surprise you, and some may spark debate — and that’s part of the fun.

If you’re shopping for a 1500 truck in 2026, or just want to understand what powertrains actually make sense, this video is built to help you make a smarter decision.

00:00 - Intro
00:47 - 5.7 Hemi, ZF 8-speed + 3.92s
08:11 - 5L Coyote, 10R80 10-speed + 3.73s
13:55 - 3L Hurricane, ZF 8-speed + 3.55s