The Ram 5500 is a Class 5 commercial chassis cab truck produced by Ram Trucks (formerly Dodge Ram) from the 2008 model year through the current 2026 model year. It is available in Regular Cab and Crew Cab configurations, with single rear wheel and dual rear wheel setups across both 2WD and 4WD drivetrains.
This guide covers Ram 5500 towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, GCWR, tongue weight, and hitch class. Adhering to manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the engine, transmission, axles, and braking systems from premature failure under load.
Quick Navigation
2026 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (370 hp / 850 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,550 lbs (5,693 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,650 lbs (24,790 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,515 lbs (1,594 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2026 Ram 5500 transitions to an 8-speed TorqueFlite ZF 8AP430 automatic transmission paired with the 6.4L HEMI V8, replacing the previous 6-speed Aisin unit used in prior model years. The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel remains the configuration delivering the highest trailer weight rating at 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg). Staying within rated towing limits ensures consistent braking performance and transmission cooling under sustained load.
2025 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (370 hp / 850 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,550 lbs (5,693 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,650 lbs (24,790 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,515 lbs (1,594 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2025 Ram 5500 carries the same towing specifications as the 2024 model, with a maximum towing capacity of 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) when equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel. The 6.4L HEMI V8 provides the highest payload capacity of 12,550 lbs (5,693 kg). Proper load distribution between the vehicle and trailer remains critical at maximum towing limits.
2024 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (370 hp / 850 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,550 lbs (5,693 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,650 lbs (24,790 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,515 lbs (1,594 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2024 Ram 5500 offers a maximum towing capacity of 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) with the available 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel and a maximum payload of 12,550 lbs (5,693 kg) with the gas V8 configuration. Models with the 4WD drivetrain carry a slightly lower maximum trailer weight compared to 2WD configurations due to added drivetrain weight. Exceeding GCWR limits places excessive strain on brakes, tires, and the chassis structure.
2023 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (360 hp / 800 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,510 lbs (5,675 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,600 lbs (24,767 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,510 lbs (1,592 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2023 Ram 5500 delivers a maximum towing capacity of up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel installed in properly equipped configurations. The Crew Cab body style reduces available towing capacity slightly compared to the Regular Cab, due to increased vehicle weight. Consulting the specific towing chart for cab style, wheelbase, and axle ratio is required to confirm per-unit limits.
2022 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (360 hp / 800 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,510 lbs (5,675 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,600 lbs (24,767 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,510 lbs (1,592 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2022 Ram 5500 maintains the same towing specification range as the 2021 model year, with up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) of trailer weight capacity available when diesel-equipped. Regular Cab 2WD models consistently produce the highest towing ratings within any given model year. Maximum towing limits require correctly rated tires, axle ratios, and a factory-installed fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch setup.
2021 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (360 hp / 800 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,510 lbs (5,675 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,600 lbs (24,767 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,510 lbs (1,592 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2021 Ram 5500 with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel produces up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) in maximum towing capacity in Regular Cab 2WD trim. Gas-powered 6.4L HEMI V8 models offer a lower trailer weight limit but a higher payload capacity for body-mounted work setups. Payload and towing figures should be reviewed together to avoid exceeding GCWR limits on any given configuration.
2020 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (360 hp / 800 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 34,980 lbs (15,866 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 34,980 lbs (15,866 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 34,980 lbs (15,866 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,460 lbs (5,652 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 54,480 lbs (24,712 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,498 lbs (1,587 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2020 Ram 5500 was offered in both gas and diesel configurations following the 2019 introduction of the 5th generation chassis cab platform. The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel provides the highest trailer weight capacity at approximately 34,980 lbs (15,866 kg) in optimal configurations. All 5th generation Ram 5500 trucks use a Class V commercial hitch rating appropriate for their towing weight range.
2019 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V8 (370 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (360 hp / 800 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 34,780 lbs (15,776 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 34,780 lbs (15,776 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | 34,780 lbs (15,776 kg) |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 12,210 lbs (5,539 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 53,980 lbs (24,484 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 3,478 lbs (1,578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2019 Ram 5500 marked the introduction of the 5th generation platform, which added the 6.4L HEMI V8 as a standard gas option alongside the Cummins diesel. This generation brought a significant increase in towing and payload capability compared to the outgoing 4th generation model. The Aisin AS66RC 6-speed automatic transmission was paired with both engine options on the 4500 and 5500 chassis cab for 2019 through 2024.
2018 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (385 hp / 865 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 19,450 lbs (8,822 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 19,450 lbs (8,822 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,910 lbs (4,495 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 38,600 lbs (17,509 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,945 lbs (882 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2018 Ram 5500 represents the final model year of the 4th generation platform, which offered the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel as the sole powertrain option. Maximum towing capacity for this generation is limited to approximately 19,450 lbs (8,822 kg) in optimal 2WD Regular Cab configurations. Transitioning to the 2019 model year brought substantial increases in towing and payload ratings with the redesigned 5th generation chassis.
2017 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (385 hp / 865 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 19,350 lbs (8,777 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 19,350 lbs (8,777 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,850 lbs (4,468 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 38,500 lbs (17,463 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,935 lbs (878 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2017 Ram 5500 uses the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 producing 385 hp and 865 lb-ft of torque, the same output introduced in the updated 2014 engine revision. Towing capacity reaches up to 19,350 lbs (8,777 kg) for the Regular Cab 2WD configuration on a 144.5-inch wheelbase. Crew Cab and 4WD models produce lower towing figures due to increased vehicle weight.
2016 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (385 hp / 865 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 19,300 lbs (8,754 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 19,300 lbs (8,754 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,800 lbs (4,445 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 38,400 lbs (17,418 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,930 lbs (876 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2016 Ram 5500 offers up to 19,300 lbs (8,754 kg) of maximum towing capacity using the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 in a Regular Cab 2WD configuration. Axle ratio selection has a direct impact on the available towing rating, with higher numerical ratios generally enabling greater trailer weight limits. Payload capacity at this model year falls within the 9,800 lb (4,445 kg) range for properly configured commercial truck bodies.
2015 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (385 hp / 850 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 19,200 lbs (8,709 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 19,200 lbs (8,709 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,740 lbs (4,418 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 38,200 lbs (17,327 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,920 lbs (871 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2015 Ram 5500 is powered by the post-2014 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel producing 385 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque, giving it towing capability up to 19,200 lbs (8,709 kg). All 4th generation Ram 5500 models used a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission depending on configuration and axle ratio. The longer wheelbase models produce slightly lower towing ratings than short wheelbase versions.
2014 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (385 hp / 850 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 19,100 lbs (8,664 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 19,100 lbs (8,664 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,680 lbs (4,391 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 38,000 lbs (17,237 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,910 lbs (867 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2014 Ram 5500 received an updated 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel producing 385 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque, a meaningful increase over the 350 hp output from prior years. This power increase supported a slight rise in maximum trailer weight rating compared to the 2013 model. Maximum towing for the Regular Cab 2WD configuration reaches up to 19,100 lbs (8,664 kg).
2013 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp / 660 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,700 lbs (8,482 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,700 lbs (8,482 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 37,500 lbs (17,010 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,870 lbs (848 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2013 Ram 5500 runs the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel producing 350 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque in the pre-2014 output specification. Maximum trailer weight for the Regular Cab 2WD trim reaches approximately 18,700 lbs (8,482 kg). Configuration, wheelbase, and axle ratio choices continue to produce varying limits within this model year.
2012 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp / 650 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,600 lbs (8,437 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,600 lbs (8,437 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,400 lbs (4,264 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 37,200 lbs (16,874 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,860 lbs (844 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2012 Ram 5500 uses the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 rated at 350 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, consistent with the pre-2014 engine specification. Towing capacity in the optimal 2WD Regular Cab setup reaches up to 18,600 lbs (8,437 kg). Longer wheelbase models, such as the Crew Cab on 197.5-inch wheelbase, will produce lower maximum trailer weight ratings.
2011 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp / 650 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,200 lbs (4,173 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 36,800 lbs (16,692 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,830 lbs (830 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2011 Ram 5500 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg) in the Regular Cab 2WD manual 6-speed configuration. The 6-speed automatic variant in the same trim produces a marginally lower figure of 18,250 lbs (8,278 kg). Crew Cab 4WD models drop to approximately 17,150 lbs (7,779 kg) at maximum.
2010 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp / 650 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,250 lbs (8,278 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,250 lbs (8,278 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,100 lbs (4,128 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 36,700 lbs (16,647 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,825 lbs (828 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2010 Ram 5500 delivers a maximum towing capacity of 18,250 lbs (8,278 kg) for the Regular Cab 2WD model on a 144.5-inch wheelbase with the manual transmission and 4.44:1 axle ratio. Models on longer wheelbases produce lower maximum towing figures. The Crew Cab 2WD automatic model on a 173.5-inch wheelbase rates at 17,500 lbs (7,938 kg).
2009 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp / 650 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,350 lbs (8,323 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,350 lbs (8,323 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 9,050 lbs (4,105 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 36,700 lbs (16,647 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,835 lbs (832 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2009 Ram 5500 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 18,350 lbs (8,323 kg) in the Regular Cab 2WD manual configuration, the highest rating within the 4th generation introductory range. The Quad Cab 4WD automatic model at this model year drops to approximately 17,550 lbs (7,961 kg). All 2009 configurations used the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel as the only available engine option.
2008 Ram 5500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp / 650 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 8,900 lbs (4,037 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 36,200 lbs (16,420 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 1,810 lbs (821 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2008 Ram 5500 is the introductory model year for this chassis cab class, offered exclusively with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6. Maximum towing capacity for this first production year reaches approximately 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) in the optimal 2WD Regular Cab configuration. This model year established the platform foundation that continued through the 2018 model year without major chassis updates.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is required to safely operate a Ram 5500 at or near its rated trailer weight limits. Using undersized or incorrectly installed components creates safety hazards and can exceed legal limits.
Tow Package
The Ram 5500 Chassis Cab includes a factory tow package as standard equipment across all model years. This package integrates the hitch receiver, trailer wiring harness, and transmission cooling provisions for sustained towing operations.
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller is required for any trailer exceeding 3,000 lbs. The Ram 5500 provides an integrated trailer brake controller port for direct connection. Proper brake controller calibration reduces trailer sway and improves stopping distance under load.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight exceeds 10 to 12 percent of total trailer weight. This equipment transfers a portion of the trailer tongue weight back to the front axle, improving steering control and reducing rear sag.
Transmission Cooler
The Ram 5500 factory tow package includes a transmission cooler to manage heat during sustained towing. Overheating the transmission fluid under heavy load is a primary cause of early transmission failure in tow vehicles.
Tire Load Rating
Tires must be rated to carry the combined weight of the vehicle’s GVWR. Using tires below the required load index for the Ram 5500’s GVWR of up to 19,500 lbs creates a risk of tire failure under full load.
Trailer Sway Control
Electronic trailer sway control, available on 5th generation Ram 5500 models, monitors and corrects trailer oscillation during highway speeds. This system applies individual wheel brakes to counteract sway before it becomes unmanageable.
| Factor | Standard Towing Setup | Heavy Towing Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Type | Fixed Class V Receiver | Fifth-Wheel or Gooseneck |
| Trailer Brakes | Required above 3,000 lbs | Required, independent controller |
| Weight Distribution | Optional | Required at high tongue weights |
| Transmission Cooler | Factory standard | Factory standard |
| Tire Rating | GVWR-matched | Commercial load range E or F |
| Sway Control | Electronic (5th gen) | Electronic plus weight distribution |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ram 5500?
The maximum towing capacity of a Ram 5500 is 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) on 5th generation models equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 and factory tow package in a 2WD Regular Cab configuration. Fourth generation models (2008 to 2018) have a maximum towing capacity of approximately 18,350 lbs (8,323 kg) using the same diesel engine. Configuration, wheelbase, and drivetrain selection affect the final rated figure.
How much can a Ram 5500 tow with a tow package?
The factory tow package is standard on all Ram 5500 Chassis Cab models, meaning the maximum towing capacity figures listed per year already account for proper tow package equipment. No additional aftermarket equipment is required to reach the rated trailer weight limit. Adding a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch body is required for maximum trailer weight ratings in the 5th generation.
Does 4WD affect Ram 5500 towing capacity?
Yes, 4WD drivetrain models produce lower maximum towing capacity than equivalent 2WD models due to added vehicle weight from the front axle and transfer case. For example, in the 2009 model year, the Regular Cab 4WD manual configuration rates at 18,000 lbs compared to 18,350 lbs for the 2WD manual version. This difference remains consistent across all Ram 5500 model years.
What trailer weight is safe for a Ram 5500?
Any trailer weight at or below the manufacturer’s rated maximum towing capacity for the specific configuration is considered within specification. Exceeding the rated limit places the drivetrain, brakes, and frame under loads beyond their engineered tolerance. Consulting the vehicle-specific towing chart in the owner’s manual provides the exact limit for a given cab style, wheelbase, engine, and axle ratio combination.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ram 5500?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight exceeds the front axle’s ability to maintain proper steering geometry and tire contact. The Ram 5500’s commercial-grade front axle is rated for substantial tongue weight, but at near-maximum trailer loads, a weight-distributing hitch improves front axle load distribution and braking stability. The owner’s manual specifies tongue weight thresholds that trigger this requirement.
What is the GCWR of a Ram 5500?
The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the 5th generation Ram 5500 with diesel reaches approximately 54,650 lbs (24,790 kg), representing the total allowable weight of the vehicle plus trailer combined. Fourth generation models carry a GCWR in the range of 36,200 to 38,600 lbs (16,420 to 17,509 kg). Exceeding GCWR is a structural and legal violation regardless of the individual towing or payload limits.
Conclusion
The Ram 5500 towing capacity ranges from approximately 18,100 lbs (8,210 kg) in the 2008 introductory model year to a maximum of 35,150 lbs (15,944 kg) in current 5th generation diesel configurations. The introduction of the 5th generation platform in 2019 nearly doubled the maximum trailer weight rating, driven by the addition of the 6.4L HEMI V8 gas option and revised structural ratings for the diesel configuration. Engine selection, drivetrain type, cab style, wheelbase, and axle ratio each directly affect the final towing limit for any individual Ram 5500 unit. Models equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel and configured in 2WD Regular Cab trim consistently produce the highest towing capacity figures within each model year. Always verify towing specifications using the vehicle-specific owner’s manual or manufacturer towing chart before hauling heavy loads.
