The Dodge Ram 1500, rebranded as the Ram 1500 starting in 2011, is a full-size light-duty pickup truck produced continuously from 2002 through the present day under the fourth-generation (DS) and fifth-generation (DT) platforms. The truck is offered in Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Crew Cab configurations with 2WD and 4WD drivetrains, and multiple engine options that directly affect towing specifications.
This guide covers towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, GCWR, tongue weight, and hitch requirements from 2005 through 2025. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, braking system, and chassis from overload damage.
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2025 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I-6; 3.0L Hurricane High-Output Twin-Turbo I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 11,570 lbs (5,248 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,110 lbs (3,678 kg) with base V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,370 lbs (1,075 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 17,000 lbs (7,711 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,157 lbs (525 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2025 Ram 1500 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 11,570 lbs when equipped with the 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo I-6 engine producing 420 hp and 469 lb-ft of torque. The High-Output Hurricane variant rates at 9,920 lbs maximum due to its higher-performance calibration and lower payload ceiling of 1,520 lbs. Engine selection, drivetrain, axle ratio, and tow package configuration all determine the final rated towing limit.
2024 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque; 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,110 lbs (3,678 kg) with 3.6L V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,370 lbs (1,075 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,275 lbs (578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Ram 1500 achieves a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs when equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and the factory tow package. The base 3.6L Pentastar V-6 is rated at 8,110 lbs maximum. The 6.2L supercharged HEMI V-8 (TRX) is not rated for towing by the manufacturer.
2023 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6; 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,730 lbs (3,507 kg) with 3.6L V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,275 lbs (578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Ram 1500 offers a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque. The 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 is rated at 9,600 lbs maximum, offering strong torque for sustained towing. The 6.2L supercharged HEMI V-8 (TRX) carries a manufacturer towing rating of 8,100 lbs due to performance tuning priorities.
2022 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,730 lbs (3,507 kg) with 3.6L V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,275 lbs (578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Ram 1500 carries a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) when equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and optional tow package. The EcoDiesel V-6 provides up to 12,560 lbs maximum towing, combining diesel efficiency with competitive trailer weight ratings. Drivetrain selection, cab configuration, and axle ratio each affect the specific rated towing limit for a given build.
2021 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 5.7L HEMI V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,730 lbs (3,507 kg) with 3.6L V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,275 lbs (578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Max Tow Package available) |
The 2021 Ram 1500 reaches its maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs in Tradesman Quad Cab 2WD configuration with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque and 3.92 axle ratio. The 3.0L EcoDiesel achieves up to 12,560 lbs with the Max Tow Package in 2WD Quad Cab spec. Without eTorque, the 5.7L HEMI V-8 is rated at 11,650 lbs maximum in the same cab configuration.
2020 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,730 lbs (3,507 kg) with 3.6L V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,830 lbs (830 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,275 lbs (578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Ram 1500 achieves its maximum towing capacity of 12,750 lbs in Tradesman Quad Cab 2WD configuration with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque, 3.92 axle ratio, and tow package. The top 4WD towing configuration rates up to 11,340 lbs in comparable trim. Engine choice and axle ratio are the two primary variables affecting towing limits in this model year.
2019 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 with eTorque; 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 12,750 lbs (5,783 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,610 lbs (3,452 kg) with 3.6L V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,820 lbs (825 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 18,500 lbs (8,392 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,275 lbs (578 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Ram 1500 marked the debut of the all-new fifth-generation DT platform, offering maximum towing of 12,750 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque. This generation introduced coil-spring rear suspension, which changed load dynamics compared to the outgoing DS-platform leaf-spring design. The 3.0L EcoDiesel returned and rated at up to 12,560 lbs in optimal configuration.
2018 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 5.7L HEMI V-8; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,140 lbs (4,600 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,920 lbs (3,592 kg) depending on configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,880 lbs (853 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Up to 14,550 lbs (6,600 kg) with EcoDiesel |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,014 lbs (460 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Ram 1500 carries a maximum towing capacity of 10,140 lbs in optimally configured 2WD builds. The 3.0L EcoDiesel in Quad Cab 2WD configuration with a 3.92 axle ratio reaches 8,960 lbs, with a corresponding GCWR of 14,550 lbs. The 2018 model year represents the final year of the fourth-generation DS platform in the Ram 1500 lineup.
2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 5.7L HEMI V-8; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,640 lbs (4,826 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,920 lbs (3,592 kg) depending on configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,880 lbs (853 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,064 lbs (483 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Ram 1500 provides maximum towing of up to 10,640 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and optional tow package. The EcoDiesel V-6 option continued to provide competitive torque figures suited for sustained trailer towing loads. Configuration with the 3.92 axle ratio is required to reach the top towing ratings in both V-8 and diesel variants.
2016 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 5.7L HEMI V-8; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,640 lbs (4,826 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,920 lbs (3,592 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,880 lbs (853 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,064 lbs (483 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2016 Ram 1500 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 10,640 lbs in 2WD HEMI V-8 configuration with tow package. The GVWR for the 2016 model year measures at 6,945 lbs, with a curb weight of approximately 5,337 lbs. Axle ratio and cab body style remain the primary specification variables affecting the final towing limit.
2015 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 5.7L HEMI V-8; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,920 lbs (3,592 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,880 lbs (853 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,065 lbs (483 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2015 Ram 1500 is SAE J2807-compliant and carries a maximum towing capacity of up to 10,650 lbs in optimal 2WD HEMI configuration. The GVWR stands at 6,945 lbs and curb weight at approximately 5,420 lbs for standard builds. The introduction of the 3.0L EcoDiesel in 2014 and its continuation into 2015 extended the towing range for fuel-conscious buyers.
2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 5.7L HEMI V-8; 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 (first year) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,800 lbs (3,538 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,880 lbs (853 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,065 lbs (483 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2014 Ram 1500 introduced the 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 as a new engine option, bringing diesel towing capability to the light-duty Ram for the first time in this generation. Maximum towing capacity reached 10,650 lbs in 2WD HEMI V-8 configuration with tow package and premium axle ratio. The GVWR for this model year is 6,900 lbs, with a curb weight of approximately 5,724 lbs.
2013 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,650 lbs (4,831 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,800 lbs (3,538 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,870 lbs (848 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,500 lbs (7,484 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,065 lbs (483 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2013 Ram 1500 (DS platform, fourth generation) carries a maximum towing capacity of 10,650 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and factory tow package in 2WD configuration. The 3.6L Pentastar V-6, introduced in 2011, replaced the older 3.7L V-6 and offered improved towing capability at the base engine tier. Axle ratio and tow group configuration remain key variables for reaching maximum towing ratings.
2012 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L Pentastar V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,450 lbs (3,379 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,850 lbs (839 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,045 lbs (474 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2012 Ram 1500 offers a maximum towing capacity of 10,450 lbs in optimally equipped 2WD builds with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and tow group. This model year retained the 4.7L V-8 as a mid-tier engine option alongside the new 3.6L Pentastar V-6. Tow ratings vary by cab style, wheelbase, and axle ratio across the model year’s available configurations.
2011 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,820 lbs (825 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,045 lbs (474 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2011 model year marked the transition from the Dodge Ram 1500 name to the Ram 1500 brand designation. Maximum towing capacity was rated at 10,450 lbs in 2WD Quad Cab HEMI configuration with tow package. The 3.7L V-6 remained available but carried a notably lower towing rating relative to the 4.7L and 5.7L V-8 options.
2010 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 10,450 lbs (4,740 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,800 lbs (3,084 kg) with V-6 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,800 lbs (816 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 1,045 lbs (474 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 continues the fourth-generation DS platform with a maximum towing capacity of 10,450 lbs in 2WD HEMI configurations with the factory tow group. The 4.7L V-8 provided a mid-range towing ceiling suitable for lighter trailer loads. Both 2WD and 4WD configurations are available, with 2WD consistently achieving higher maximum trailer weight ratings.
2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,550 lbs (3,878 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,650 lbs (3,016 kg) with 4.7L V-8 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,430 lbs (649 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 855 lbs (388 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 carries a maximum towing capacity of 8,550 lbs in 4WD Quad Cab configuration with the 5.7L HEMI and 3.92 axle ratio. The 3.7L V-6 in Regular Cab 2WD trim with manual transmission is rated as low as 3,300 lbs. This model year was the last of the third-generation DS format before the redesigned body was introduced.
2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,200 lbs (4,173 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) with 4.7L V-8 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,720 lbs (780 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 920 lbs (417 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 and tow package is rated at up to 9,200 lbs maximum towing capacity. The GVWR is approximately 9,000 lbs for most configurations, with cargo and occupant limits specified in the door placard. Both 2WD and 4WD drivetrains are available, with 2WD typically yielding higher trailer weight ratings.
2007 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,100 lbs (4,128 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,100 lbs (3,221 kg) with 4.7L V-8 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,780 lbs (808 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 910 lbs (413 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 9,100 lbs in properly equipped 2WD builds with the 5.7L HEMI V-8. The third-generation DR-platform design continued unchanged for this model year across the same engine lineup. Selecting the optional tow package with proper axle ratio is required to achieve the maximum rated trailer weight.
2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 9,100 lbs (4,128 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) with 4.7L V-8 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,810 lbs (821 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 910 lbs (413 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III / IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 achieves a maximum towing capacity of 9,100 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 engine and tow group in 2WD spec. Payload capacity for this model year reaches 1,810 lbs with the curb weight measured at approximately 4,560 lbs in base configuration. The 3.7L V-6 carries a significantly reduced towing rating due to lower torque output.
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.7L V-6; 4.7L V-8; 5.7L HEMI V-8 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (4×2) / 4WD (4×4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,050 lbs (3,651 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 6,500 lbs (2,948 kg) with 4.7L V-8 |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,510 lbs (685 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 13,000 lbs (5,897 kg) when properly equipped |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Up to 805 lbs (365 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 carries a maximum towing capacity of 8,050 lbs in standard configuration. The curb weight is approximately 5,144 lbs, with a GVWR of 6,650 lbs for this model year. The 5.7L HEMI V-8 with tow group provides the highest towing rating; the 3.7L V-6 is rated considerably lower.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment reduces accident risk, prevents drivetrain wear, and keeps the Ram 1500 within its rated limits. The components below apply to all model years covered in this guide.
Tow Package
The factory tow package on Ram 1500 trucks typically includes a trailer hitch receiver, upgraded wiring harness, trailer brake controller pre-wiring, engine oil cooler, and transmission cooler. Without the tow package, the maximum trailer weight rating drops below the manufacturer’s published peak value. Always confirm tow package content using the build sheet or order guide for the specific model year.
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller is required when towing trailers with electric brakes, generally mandated for trailers exceeding 3,000 lbs in most jurisdictions. The Ram 1500 integrates a factory brake controller in higher trim levels and tow package configurations. The controller must be calibrated to trailer load to synchronize the trailer braking with the truck’s braking force.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight exceeds 10 to 15 percent of the tow vehicle’s front axle weight. It redistributes load across all axles, restoring steering feel, reducing rear sag, and improving braking. Trailer sway control is often integrated into weight-distribution hitch systems and further reduces lateral instability under crosswind or passing-vehicle conditions.
Transmission Cooler and Tire Load Ratings
The automatic transmission generates heat under sustained towing loads. A factory or aftermarket transmission cooler reduces thermal degradation of transmission fluid. Tires must carry a load rating that supports the combined weight of the truck, payload, and tongue weight. Undersized tires create heat buildup and increase blowout risk at highway towing speeds.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Normal Towing (under 5,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (5,000 lbs and above) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class III | Class IV |
| Weight Distribution | Not typically required | Required above 50% max capacity |
| Trailer Brake Controller | Optional depending on jurisdiction | Required for electric brake trailers |
| Transmission Cooler | Standard factory cooler sufficient | Dedicated transmission cooler recommended |
| Tire Load Rating | Standard P-metric tires adequate | LT-rated tires preferred |
| Sway Control | Not typically required | Recommended or required |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Dodge Ram 1500?
The maximum towing capacity of the Ram 1500 is 12,750 lbs, achieved in the 2020 through 2024 model years with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque, 2WD Quad Cab configuration, and factory tow package. The 2025 model year transitions to the Hurricane I-6 engine platform, with a maximum of 11,570 lbs. Older model years from 2005 to 2009 carry lower maximum ratings ranging from 8,050 to 9,200 lbs.
How much can a Dodge Ram 1500 tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package installed, the Ram 1500 reaches its published maximum towing capacity for a given engine and configuration. Without the tow package, towing capacity is reduced because cooling systems, wiring, and hitch hardware may not meet the standards required for peak trailer weights. Always verify tow package content and its effect on rated capacity using the manufacturer’s towing guide for the specific model year.
Does 4WD affect Dodge Ram 1500 towing capacity?
Yes. 4WD configurations carry slightly lower maximum towing ratings than equivalent 2WD builds in the Ram 1500. The added weight and drivetrain components of 4WD reduce available towing capacity in most configurations. For example, the 2021 Ram 1500 in 2WD HEMI eTorque configuration is rated at 12,750 lbs, while comparable 4WD builds are rated lower.
What trailer weight is safe for a Dodge Ram 1500?
The safe trailer weight for a Ram 1500 is equal to or below the manufacturer-rated maximum towing capacity for the specific engine, drivetrain, and configuration. A practical towing margin is staying at or below 80 percent of the maximum rated trailer weight to account for grade, elevation, heat, and payload. Tongue weight must also stay within the rated tongue weight limit, typically 10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Dodge Ram 1500?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when the trailer tongue weight approaches or exceeds 500 lbs on a Ram 1500, particularly in high-capacity towing scenarios. It redistributes trailer tongue weight back to the front axle, restoring steering response and braking balance. For light trailers under 5,000 lbs, a standard ball mount hitch is typically adequate within Class III or Class IV hitch specifications.
What hitch class does a Dodge Ram 1500 use?
The Ram 1500 uses a Class III or Class IV hitch receiver depending on model year and tow package. Class IV receivers are standard on tow-package-equipped fifth-generation (2019 and newer) Ram 1500 trucks. Earlier model years (2005 to 2008) typically came with Class III receivers as standard equipment.
Conclusion
The Dodge Ram 1500 towing capacity ranges from 8,050 lbs in 2005 models to 12,750 lbs in peak 2020 through 2024 configurations, with the 2025 model year rated at 11,570 lbs under the new Hurricane I-6 engine platform. Engine selection is the single largest factor affecting the maximum trailer weight rating, followed by drivetrain, axle ratio, cab configuration, and tow package. The 5.7L HEMI V-8 with eTorque has historically provided the highest towing capacity in the light-duty Ram lineup, while the 3.0L EcoDiesel V-6 offered competitive ratings with diesel efficiency. Staying within the manufacturer’s rated towing limits for payload, GCWR, and tongue weight is essential for safe and reliable towing across all model years. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual or Ram’s official towing guide before towing heavy loads.
