The Ram 3500 is a full-size heavy-duty pickup truck produced by Ram Trucks, a division of Stellantis North America, available in regular cab, crew cab, and mega cab configurations with single rear wheel (SRW) and dual rear wheel (DRW) setups. The Ram 3500 has been produced continuously from model year 2010 onward under the Ram brand, following earlier production under the Dodge nameplate.
This guide covers Ram 3500 towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, engine options, and equipment requirements from 2010 through 2026. Towing within manufacturer-rated limits protects the engine, transmission, braking system, and frame from premature wear and structural fatigue.
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2026 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8 (405 hp / 429 lb-ft); HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (430 hp / 1,075 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 36,610 lbs (16,607 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,150 lbs (8,232 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 36,610 lbs (16,607 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW, properly equipped |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 7,590 lbs (3,443 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Max Tow Package) |
The 2026 Ram 3500 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 36,610 lbs when equipped with the high-output 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 engine. The standard 6.4L HEMI V-8 is rated for up to 18,150 lbs, suitable for most fifth-wheel trailers and commercial applications. The 2026 model is available in both single rear wheel and dual rear wheel configurations, with DRW setups reaching the highest trailer weight ratings.
2025 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8; HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (1,075 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 36,610 lbs (16,607 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 36,610 lbs (16,607 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW, properly equipped |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 7,590 lbs (3,443 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 11,700 lbs – 14,000 lbs (5,307 – 6,350 kg) depending on configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Max Tow Package) |
The 2025 Ram 3500 is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 36,610 lbs when properly equipped with the HO 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6. The GVWR for 2025 models ranges from 11,700 lbs to 14,000 lbs depending on cab style, bed length, and drivetrain selection. Maximum gas-engine payload reaches 7,590 lbs with the 6.4L HEMI V-8 configuration.
2024 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8 (410 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (370 hp / 850 lb-ft); HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (420 hp / 1,075 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 37,090 lbs (16,825 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,210 lbs (8,259 kg) – 6.4L HEMI; 22,660 lbs (10,278 kg) – Standard 6.7L Diesel |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 37,090 lbs (16,825 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW, gooseneck hitch required |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 7,680 lbs (3,483 kg) – 6.4L HEMI; 6,560 lbs (2,976 kg) – HO Diesel |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Max Tow Package) |
The 2024 Ram 3500 delivers a maximum towing capacity of 37,090 lbs when equipped with the high-output 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6, making it one of the highest-rated conventional tow vehicles in the one-ton segment. Three powertrain options are available, each with a distinct towing capacity range: the 6.4L HEMI at 18,210 lbs, the standard 6.7L Cummins at 22,660 lbs, and the HO 6.7L Cummins at 37,090 lbs. Gas-engine configurations provide the highest payload rating at 7,680 lbs, while diesel configurations prioritize maximum trailer weight.
2023 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8 (410 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (370 hp / 850 lb-ft); HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (420 hp / 1,075 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 37,090 lbs (16,825 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,210 lbs (8,259 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 37,090 lbs (16,825 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW, gooseneck hitch |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 7,680 lbs (3,483 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Ram 3500 carries identical maximum towing ratings to the 2024 model at 37,090 lbs with the HO 6.7L Cummins diesel. Towing capacity in the 2023 model year is directly dependent on engine selection, axle ratio, cab configuration, and whether the optional Max Tow Package is specified. A gooseneck hitch is required for trailer weights above 25,000 lbs on this model year.
2022 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8 (410 hp / 429 lb-ft); 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (370 hp / 850 lb-ft); HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 (420 hp / 1,075 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 37,090 lbs (16,825 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 18,210 lbs (8,259 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 37,090 lbs (16,825 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 7,680 lbs (3,483 kg) – 6.4L HEMI; 6,570 lbs (2,980 kg) – HO Diesel |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | Up to 11,100 lbs (5,035 kg) – SRW configurations |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Ram 3500 maximum towing capacity remains at 37,090 lbs when equipped with the HO 6.7L Cummins diesel and six-speed automatic Aisin transmission. The 6.4L HEMI V-8 paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission provides the highest payload rating in the lineup at 7,680 lbs. A fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch is required for trailers exceeding 18,000 lbs.
2021 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6; HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) – 6.4L HEMI, SRW |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Ram 3500 is rated for up to 35,100 lbs maximum towing capacity when properly equipped with the diesel powertrain. Both gasoline and diesel engine options were available for 2021, with a capacity range spanning from 13,660 lbs at the low end to 35,100 lbs at the maximum diesel configuration. The 2021 model retained the fourth-generation Ram HD platform introduced with the 2019 redesign.
2020 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6; HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Up to 7,680 lbs (3,483 kg) – specific configurations |
| GVWR | 12,300 lbs (5,579 kg) – example SRW 4×4 configuration |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Ram 3500 shares a maximum towing capacity of 35,100 lbs with the 2019 and 2021 model years under the same fourth-generation HD platform. A 2020 SRW 4×4 example configuration carries a GVWR of 12,300 lbs, with payload rated on the driver-side door pillar certification label. Buyers should note that the GCWR and maximum trailer weight for any specific truck are configuration-dependent and vary by axle ratio and equipment package.
2019 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6; HO 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg) – HO Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Ram 3500 marked the debut of the fourth-generation Ram HD platform, which raised the maximum towing capacity to 35,100 lbs from the previous generation’s 31,210 lbs limit. This model year introduced key structural and drivetrain upgrades that enabled the significant increase in maximum trailer weight rating. The overall towing capacity range for 2019 models spans from 13,660 lbs in lower HEMI configurations up to 35,100 lbs at the best diesel configuration.
2018 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) – 6.4L HEMI, best configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) – 6.7L Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to towing chart |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Ram 3500 maximum towing capacity is 31,210 lbs with the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 when properly equipped. Three engine options were available for the 2018 model year, with the overall capacity range spanning from 10,810 lbs at the low end up to 31,210 lbs at the diesel maximum. The GCWR figures for 2018 are configuration-specific and published in the official Ram 3500 towing chart for that model year.
2017 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) – 6.4L HEMI, best configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) – 6.7L Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to towing chart |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Ram 3500 towing capacity matches the 2018 model at a maximum of 31,210 lbs with the 6.7L Cummins diesel. Three engine options were available, and configuration variables including axle ratio, cab style, and bed length all affect the actual maximum trailer weight for any specific truck. Verifying towing capacity against the official 2017 Ram 3500 towing chart is recommended before loading any heavy trailer.
2016 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) – 6.7L Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to towing chart |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2016 Ram 3500 falls within the 2014-2018 third-generation platform group, which shares a towing capacity range of 10,810 lbs to 31,210 lbs depending on engine and configuration. Maximum towing with the 6.7L Cummins diesel is achievable in dual rear wheel configurations with the correct axle ratio. Selecting the 5.7L HEMI results in the lowest trailer weight ratings in this model year range.
2015 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) – 6.7L Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| GVWR | Up to 13,800 lbs (6,260 kg) – select configurations |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2015 Ram 3500 towing capacity is rated at up to 31,210 lbs with the diesel engine in optimal configuration, matching the upper limit for this generation. The SAE J2807 compliant towing chart for the 2015 model year shows GVWR values up to 13,800 lbs in specific Regular Cab, 4×2, 6.4L configurations with a 4.10 axle ratio. Buyers should cross-reference the official 2015 Ram 3500 towing chart for configuration-specific values.
2014 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.4L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg) – 6.4L HEMI |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 31,210 lbs (14,157 kg) – 6.7L Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to official towing chart |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Class IV: up to 1,045 lbs (474 kg) receiver hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2014 Ram 3500 is part of the third-generation HD platform, with a towing capacity range of 10,810 lbs to 31,210 lbs across all configurations. The chassis cab towing chart for 2014 specifies that the Class IV receiver hitch tongue weight limit is 1,045 lbs, and GVWR and GAWR limits must not be exceeded in any configuration. The 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 in DRW trim is required to reach the maximum trailer weight rating.
2013 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 30,010 lbs (13,613 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 8,950 lbs (4,060 kg) – 5.7L HEMI, lower configurations |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Up to 30,010 lbs (13,613 kg) – 6.7L Diesel, DRW |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Varies by configuration – refer to official towing chart |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2013 Ram 3500 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 30,010 lbs with the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 in the optimal configuration. Two engine options were available for 2013, with the 5.7L HEMI occupying the lower end of the towing range. The overall towing capacity range for 2013 models spans from 8,950 lbs to 30,010 lbs across all available configurations.
2012 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | Varies by configuration – up to mid-20,000 lbs range |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Varies by axle ratio and cab configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Available – refer to owner’s manual for configuration-specific limits |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Varies by configuration |
| GVWR | 12,200 lbs (5,534 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2012 Ram 3500 was offered primarily with the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6, as the 5.7L HEMI option was not added until 2013. The 2012 model falls within the 2009-2013 generation, which carried a towing capacity range spanning from 8,950 lbs at the low end to 30,010 lbs at the 2013 high point. Exact maximum trailer weight figures for 2012 configurations depend on axle ratio, cab style, and drivetrain and should be verified via the official Ram towing chart for that year.
2011 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 20,800 lbs (9,435 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 20,800 lbs (9,435 kg) – best diesel configuration |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Available – refer to owner’s manual |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 4,590 lbs (2,082 kg) |
| GVWR | 12,200 lbs (5,534 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV / Class V |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2011 Ram 3500 is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 20,800 lbs in the best-equipped diesel configuration. Maximum payload for the 2011 model year reaches 4,590 lbs, and the GVWR is 12,200 lbs. Drivetrain selection and axle ratio significantly affect actual towing capacity for this model year.
2010 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.7L HEMI V-8; 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 16,700 lbs (7,575 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | Up to 16,700 lbs (7,575 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | Available – refer to owner’s manual |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 4,460 lbs (2,023 kg) |
| GVWR | 12,200 lbs (5,534 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | Varies by hitch class and configuration |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2010 Ram 3500 carries a maximum towing capacity of 16,700 lbs with the top drivetrain and axle ratio configuration. Maximum payload is 4,460 lbs, and the GVWR is 12,200 lbs for 2010 models. The 2010 model year was the first under the Ram brand following the separation from Dodge, offering both HEMI gas and Cummins diesel powertrain options.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Tow Package
The factory tow package on the Ram 3500 typically includes a heavy-duty trailer hitch receiver, seven-pin wiring harness, and an integrated trailer brake controller. Without the tow package, some models cannot reach their published maximum trailer weight rating. Always confirm whether the tow package is installed before calculating the allowable trailer weight.
Trailer Brake Controller
Ram recommends trailer brakes for trailers weighing over 2,000 lbs, and trailer brakes are required for trailers above that threshold under manufacturer guidelines. An integrated trailer brake controller synchronizes the trailer’s braking system with the truck’s hydraulic brakes, reducing stopping distance under load. Operating a heavy trailer without a functioning trailer brake controller increases stopping distances and stress on the tow vehicle’s braking system.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch redistributes trailer tongue weight across the tow vehicle’s front and rear axles, improving handling and maintaining proper steering feel. This equipment is recommended when tongue weight exceeds 10-15 percent of the tow vehicle’s GVWR. Failure to use a weight-distributing hitch on heavy loads can cause rear sag, reduced front axle traction, and steering instability.
Transmission Cooler and Cooling Systems
Heavy towing generates elevated thermal load on the transmission, engine coolant, and differential fluid. The Ram 3500 with the factory tow package includes an integrated transmission cooler, but additional aftermarket coolers may benefit operators who tow at maximum capacity frequently or in high-temperature environments. Monitoring transmission fluid temperature during extended towing preserves gear shift quality and long-term transmission reliability.
Tire Load Ratings and Trailer Sway Control
Tire load ratings must match or exceed the load carried on each axle, accounting for both payload and tongue weight. Trailer sway control systems, available on late-model Ram 3500s, use selective braking and throttle reduction to counteract trailer oscillation. Proper tire inflation, equal load distribution in the trailer, and correct tongue weight placement are the primary factors in preventing trailer sway.
Normal Towing vs Heavy Towing Setup
| Feature | Normal Towing (Under 10,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (Over 15,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Type | Class IV receiver | Class V gooseneck or fifth-wheel |
| Trailer Brakes | Recommended | Required |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Optional | Required for conventional hitch setups |
| Transmission Cooler | Standard OEM | Additional cooler recommended |
| Brake Controller | Integrated OEM | Proportional brake controller |
| Tire Pressure | Standard recommended | Maximum cold inflation within placard limits |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Ram 3500?
The maximum towing capacity of the Ram 3500 reached 37,090 lbs for model years 2022, 2023, and 2024 when equipped with the high-output 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 engine. The 2025 and 2026 models are rated at 36,610 lbs maximum. A dual rear wheel configuration, correct axle ratio, and factory tow package are all required to reach the published maximum trailer weight limit.
How much can a Ram 3500 tow with the tow package?
With the Max Tow Package and the HO 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, the Ram 3500 is rated to tow up to 37,090 lbs in peak years. Without the tow package, some trim levels and configurations cannot achieve the maximum trailer weight rating published by the manufacturer. Always verify that the tow package is properly installed before loading the trailer to the maximum rated limit.
Does 4WD affect Ram 3500 towing capacity?
Four-wheel drive configuration can affect the maximum trailer weight rating for a specific Ram 3500, as drivetrain selection is one variable in the manufacturer’s towing charts. In many configurations, 4WD trucks carry slightly lower maximum trailer weight ratings than equivalent 2WD trucks due to differences in GVWR, weight distribution, and axle ratings. Towing within the rated limit for the specific drivetrain configuration is required for safe and compliant towing.
What trailer weight is safe for a Ram 3500?
Safe trailer weight for any Ram 3500 is the maximum trailer weight listed on that specific truck’s towing chart, based on its engine, axle ratio, cab configuration, and equipment. Trailer weight should never exceed the published maximum for the specific configuration, and payload, tongue weight, and GCWR must all remain within rated limits simultaneously. The safety certification label on the driver-side door pillar provides GVWR and payload data for that individual vehicle.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Ram 3500?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when tongue weight is high enough to cause rear suspension sag or reduce front axle contact with the road. For heavy conventional towing applications above approximately 12,000-14,000 lbs, a weight-distributing hitch improves steering control, braking, and lateral stability. Fifth-wheel and gooseneck hitch setups inherently place the connection point over the rear axle, which reduces the need for a separate weight-distributing hitch.
What is the difference between fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing on a Ram 3500?
Fifth-wheel hitches mount in the truck bed over the rear axle and use a kingpin coupling common in RV and commercial trailer applications. Gooseneck hitches use a ball-and-coupler connection in the truck bed and are rated for heavier loads, with gooseneck required for trailers over 25,000 lbs on current Ram 3500 models. Both hitch types provide higher tongue weight capacity and stability compared to a conventional rear receiver hitch.
Conclusion
The Ram 3500 towing capacity ranges from 16,700 lbs in 2010 base configurations up to 37,090 lbs in peak 2022-2024 diesel configurations, representing a substantial increase over the model’s production history. Engine selection is the single largest factor in determining maximum towing capacity, with the high-output 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel I-6 consistently providing the highest trailer weight ratings across all model years in which it was offered. The factory tow package, axle ratio, drivetrain, and cab configuration each independently affect the towing capacity rating for any specific truck.
Operating at or below the manufacturer’s rated towing capacity for the specific configuration protects the engine, transmission, braking system, and frame from accelerated wear. Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual and the official model-year towing chart before connecting any trailer.
