What is the Towing Capacity of a Ram Truck?
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What is the Towing Capacity of a Ram Truck?
When you require a truck that's powerful, durable, and trustworthy, you simply can't help but look towards the RAM series. If you require a truck for commercial purposes, towing a trailer, or carrying your RV on a trip, knowing the towing capacity of a RAM truck is imperative. In this article, we'll guide you through the various RAM models and towing capacities so that you know which truck best fits your requirements.
RAM 1500 Towing Capacity: The Light-Duty Champion
If you’re in the market for a light-duty truck with impressive towing capabilities, the RAM 1500 is a top choice. Designed for versatility, it blends power and efficiency with a comfortable ride and strong towing potential.
Base Towing Capacity: The RAM 1500 can tow as little as 6,120 pounds when equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine.
Maximum Towing Capacity: If you opt for the available 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque, you can have a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds when properly equipped.
Diesel Option: The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 offers a balance of towing capacity and fuel economy, with a maximum towing capacity of 12,560 pounds.
If you need a truck for heavy towing—such as small boats, utility trailers, or mid-size campers—the RAM 1500 is perfect.
RAM 2500 Towing Capacity: Taking it to Heavy-Duty
If you need something with more oomph than the RAM 1500 provides, the RAM 2500 is your next choice. The heavy-duty truck is built for serious towing, and it's an excellent choice for people who tow heavy loads on a regular basis.
Base Towing Capability: With the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, the RAM 2500 has a base towing capability of 14,370 pounds.
Maximum Towing Capability: If you choose the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, you can tow up to 19,990 pounds properly equipped.
This truck is ideal for towing large trailers, equipment, or even a fifth-wheel RV. If you’re a contractor, farmer, or outdoor enthusiast with heavy hauling needs, the RAM 2500 offers plenty of capability.
RAM 3500 Towing Capacity: Maximum Towing Power
For those who need maximum towing capacity, the RAM 3500 is the heavy-duty work truck on its level. Designed with the best performance in mind, this heavy-duty truck is the best fit for those who demand the best from their truck.
Base Towing Capacity: With its 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, there is a maximum towing capacity of 18,210 pounds.
Maximum Towing Capacity: With the available high-output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, the RAM 3500 features a maximum towing capacity of 37,090 pounds when properly equipped.
The truck is designed for the heaviest towing duties, such as towing heavy fifth-wheel trailers, horse trailers, and oversized loads. If you need to tow serious weight, the RAM 3500 will not let you down.
Factors Affecting Towing Capacity
While the numbers above provide you with a rough estimate of what each RAM truck can tow, there are various factors that may influence the actual towing capacity:
Engine Choice: As you've observed, the engine choices have a considerable influence on towing capability. Diesel engines tend to produce more torque, and hence are more appropriate for heavy towing.
Drivetrain Configuration: The use of 2WD or 4WD will affect towing capacity because 4WD setups add weight to the truck, reducing towing capacity slightly.
Axle Ratio: A higher axle ratio will generally increase towing capacity but reduce fuel efficiency.
Cab and Bed Configuration: Cab and bed size have an effect on towing as well. A larger bed or more spacious cab will affect payload and towing ratings.
Towing Package: RAM trucks with towing packages include amenities such as high-capacity suspension, trailer brake controllers, and reinforced frames to increase towing capability.
Choosing the Right RAM Truck for You
Now that you have an idea of what towing capacity each RAM model has, it's time to determine what truck is right for you. Ask yourself these questions:
What will you be hauling? If you will be hauling a small boat or trailer, the RAM 1500 may suffice. But for heavy-duty hauling like a travel trailer or equipment, consider the RAM 2500 or 3500.
How often will you be hauling? If you only haul occasionally, a RAM 1500 may be a cost-effective choice. But for regular heavy hauling, the RAM 2500 or 3500 is a worthwhile investment.
Gas or diesel, do you prefer? Diesel engines provide greater torque and better gas mileage when towing but may be more expensive to start.
Do you need additional towing capacity? Look for the vehicle to offer such amenities as trailer brake controllers that come standard, towing mirrors, and a fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep package to help with towing and safety.
The towing capacity for a RAM truck will depend on the model, engine, and configuration you choose. The RAM 1500 is an excellent option for light-duty towing tasks, while the RAM 2500 moves it up a level if you want more power. If you need ultimate towing capability, the RAM 3500 offers best-in-class capability. By understanding these towing capacities and how they compare to your personal needs, you can make the right choice for which RAM truck to use.
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* Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.
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Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.