How big of a 5th wheel can a Ram 2500 pull?
The Ram 2500 is a powerful heavy-duty pickup truck that can tow a substantial 5th wheel trailer. Depending on the specific configuration, a Ram 2500 can typically pull a 5th wheel trailer weighing up to 16,000 pounds or more.
Towing Capacity of the Ram 2500
The towing capacity of the Ram 2500 varies depending on the engine, drivetrain, and other factors. The maximum towing capacity for a Ram 2500 is around 20,000 pounds when properly equipped. This means the Ram 2500 can handle a wide range of 5th wheel trailers, from smaller models weighing 10,000 pounds or less to larger, heavier trailers up to 16,000 pounds or more.
Factors That Affect 5th Wheel Towing Capacity
Several key factors influence the maximum 5th wheel towing capacity of a Ram 2500:
- Engine: The engine size and power output play a major role. Larger, more powerful engines like the available 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel can handle heavier 5th wheel trailers.
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations affect the truck's towing capabilities.
- Payload Capacity: The Ram 2500's payload capacity, which is the maximum weight it can carry in the bed and cab, also impacts the maximum towing weight.
- Trailer Weight: The actual weight of the 5th wheel trailer being towed is a critical factor. Heavier trailers require a more capable towing vehicle.
By considering these factors, you can determine the maximum 5th wheel size that a specific Ram 2500 model can safely and reliably tow.
Choosing the Right 5th Wheel for Your Ram 2500
When selecting a 5th wheel trailer to pair with your Ram 2500, it's important to stay within the truck's maximum towing capacity. Exceeding the towing limits can compromise safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. Be sure to consult your Ram 2500's owner's manual and work with an experienced RV dealer to find the right 5th wheel trailer for your needs and your truck's capabilities.
How big of an RV can a RAM 2500 tow?
The short answer is from around 14,000 lbs to around 15,000 lbs on most trims. How much a RAM 2500 can tow exactly depends on the trim, drivetrain, and cab/box size. We break out the 2020 RAM 2500 maximum towing capacity below by trim, when properly equipped.
How big of a fifth wheel can a 2019 Ram 2500 pull?
The 2019 Ram 2500 5th wheel towing capacity depends on the engine, with a maximum of up to 19,780 pounds. For example, the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine has a maximum towing capacity of around 17,130 pounds, while the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine can tow up to 19,780 pounds when properly configured.
Towing capacity by engine
- 6.4L HEMI V8: Up to 17,130 pounds
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Up to 19,780 pounds
Important considerations
- Payload: Remember that payload capacity is also critical and can be the limiting factor for 5th wheel towing, as trailer pin weight counts against it. A specific 2019 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins had a payload capacity of approximately 2,500 pounds, which is a good indicator for the maximum pin weight the truck can handle.
- Configuration: The maximum towing capacity is achieved with the correct configuration, which includes the right cab, bed length, and drivetrain. For example, a regular cab, 8-foot box with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine can reach the maximum towing capacity.
- Total weight: The total weight of the truck and trailer must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This includes passengers, cargo, and the trailer tongue weight.
- Fifth-wheel hitch: Using a fifth-wheel hitch is recommended for towing weights at the upper end of the Ram 2500's capability, as it distributes the weight more effectively than a conventional hitch.
How much weight can a RAM 2500 Cummins pull?
The towing capacity for a Ram 2500 with a Cummins engine is up to 20,000 pounds. However, the exact capacity varies depending on the specific configuration, including the model year, cab size, drive type (4x2 or 4x4), and axle ratio.
Key factors affecting towing capacity
- Engine: The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine is specifically designed for heavy-duty towing and offers the highest capacity.
- Axle Ratio: A lower axle ratio (like 3.73) will result in a higher towing capacity compared to a higher ratio (like 4.10) for the same engine.
- Configuration: The truck's body style, such as a Crew Cab versus a Regular Cab, also influences the final towing number.
- Model Year: Towing capacities are subject to change between model years. The figures above generally reflect the most recent model years.
Examples of 2025 Ram 2500 Cummins towing capacities
- Crew Cab 4x4 with 8-foot box: Up to 20,000 pounds
- Regular Cab 4x4 with 8-foot box: Up to 19,990 pounds
- Mega Cab 4x4 with 6-foot, 4-inch box: Up to 15,680 pounds
What is the 80% towing rule?
Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.
