A Beginner's Guide to Ram Truck Towing Capacities

When choosing a truck, towing capacity is key for work and play. Ram trucks are the go-to for drivers who need the most towing. Whether you're towing a trailer, boat, or heavy equipment, the right Ram will make all the difference. This guide will break down the towing capacity of each model to help you decide.

Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle is rated to tow. For pickup trucks like the Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and Ram 3500, this number is important to know how much weight the vehicle can handle. Ram trucks are known for their impressive towing numbers and are designed to fit various needs, from daily commutes to serious hauling.

The Ram 1500 is the entry-level full-size pickup in the Ram lineup, it's a balance of towing and comfort. Towing capacity varies by engine and configuration but can handle a lot of weight for both personal and work use.

With the 5.7L HEMI® V8, the Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds when properly equipped. If you want better fuel efficiency the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel with the 3.0L V6 can tow 12,560 pounds. This makes the Ram 1500 good for light to medium-duty towing, such as a small boat, camper, or enclosed trailer. The truck's towing features, active-level four-corner air suspension, and trailer sway damping make it easier to handle heavy loads and keep you stable and in control on long trips.

The Ram 2500 has more power and towing capacity than the Ram 1500 so it's a great choice for heavier-duty work. This model has more robust engine options, the 6.4L HEMI® V8 and the 6.7L Cummins® turbo diesel I6.

With the 6.4L HEMI® V8, the Ram 2500 can tow up to 17,540 pounds so it's good for those who need to haul larger trailers, equipment, or livestock. The diesel engine option, the 6.7L Cummins®, takes towing to the next level and can tow up to 20,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes the Ram 2500 a great choice for those who tow heavy trailers or machinery, construction vehicles, or RVs.

In addition to raw towing power the Ram 2500 also has towing tips and technologies like trailer reverse guidance, automatic trailer brake control, and a fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep package.

For those who need even more towing capacity, the Ram 3500 is the heavy-duty pickup truck in the Ram lineup. Built to handle the toughest towing needs the Ram 3500 can tow up to 37,100 pounds with the 6.7L Cummins® turbo diesel I6 and dual rear-wheel. This is more than enough to tow big loads like large horse trailers, fifth-wheel campers, and construction equipment.

The Ram 3500 is built for extreme durability with features like the Class V hitch receiver, smart towing technology, and a high-strength steel frame. Plus the Ram 3500 has a dual option so it's stable and towing capable for heavy-duty hauling jobs.

No matter which model you choose Ram trucks have a package of towing technologies to improve safety, towing ease, and overall performance.

1. Trailer Sway Control: Automatically applies brake force to individual wheels to help stabilize the vehicle and trailer.

2. Towing/Hauling Mode: Available on most models this mode optimizes the transmission and engine for heavy duty towing. Helps maintain power on inclines and rough terrain.

3. Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Allows the driver to adjust trailer brake settings for a smooth stop when hauling heavy loads.

4. 360-Degree Camera System: Gives a bird's eye view of the vehicle and trailer to help with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

5. Tow Hooks and Trailer Hitches: Ram trucks have heavy-duty tow hooks and multiple hitch options to connect and secure your trailer or equipment.

When choosing a Ram truck for towing consider:

• Payload Capacity: In addition to towing it's important to consider the truck's payload capacity or the maximum weight the truck can carry in the bed. This will affect your overall hauling needs.

• Transmission and Suspension: For heavy towing the transmission and suspension are key. Ram trucks have advanced suspension systems including air suspension to help with load-leveling and towing stability.

• Engine Options: The towing capacity of each Ram truck model varies greatly depending on the engine you choose. Gas engines like the HEMI® V8 are good for general towing while diesel engines like the Cummins® I6 are for extreme towing.

• Trailer Types: What type of trailer you plan to tow should also be considered when choosing a Ram truck. Light-duty trailers like utility trailers or boat trailers can be handled by the Ram 1500. For heavier loads like RVs or commercial equipment the Ram 2500 or Ram 3500 may be needed.

To tow safely and efficiently:

1. Check Towing Capacity: Make sure your load doesn't exceed the truck's rated towing capacity by checking the specs in the owner's manual or using a weight distribution hitch when needed.

2. Distribute Weight: Proper weight distribution is key to stability and reducing sway. Load heavier items in the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly.

3. Use Proper Hitching: The right hitch type and size is crucial for securing your trailer. Check your truck's manual or a professional to choose the right hitch for your needs.

4. Service Your Ram Truck: Regular maintenance like tire pressure, oil changes, and brake inspections will help with towing.

Now that you know the towing capacities and features of the Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and Ram 3500 you can choose the right vehicle for your towing needs. Whether you're hauling a small trailer or need to pull heavy loads Ram trucks have a model and configuration for you.