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How much can a 2014 Ram 1500 tow?

In short, the 2014 Ram 1500 can tow roughly 7,500 to 10,000 pounds, depending on engine and equipment, with the V8 Hemi and EcoDiesel versions offering the highest ratings.


For the 2014 model year, Ram offered three main engines—3.6-liter Pentastar V6, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, and 5.7-liter Hemi V8—paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity is not a single figure; it varies by drivetrain (2WD vs. 4x4), rear axle ratio, cab/bed configuration, and optional Tow/Haul or heavy-duty packages. The following sections summarize typical maximums for common configurations, followed by important caveats.


By engine and configuration


The figures below reflect commonly cited maximum tow ratings for representative 2014 Ram 1500 builds. Always rely on the door jamb label and the owner's manual for your exact truck.



  • 3.6L Pentastar V6: up to about 7,500–7,800 pounds (varies with axle ratio and equipment).

  • 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: up to about 9,000–9,800 pounds (best with higher rear-axle ratio and Tow/Haul package).

  • 5.7L Hemi V8: up to about 9,700–10,450 pounds (highest figures typically with the 3.92 rear axle and Tow/Haul options).


These numbers illustrate the general range you could expect across common configurations. Exact towing capability depends on multiple factors, including cab style (Regular, Quad, Crew), bed length, and whether a tow package is installed.


Additional factors that affect towing capacity


Beyond engine choice, several variables influence how much you can safely tow with a 2014 Ram 1500.



  • Tow package availability and features: A factory Tow Package can raise towing capacity and provide extras such as a heavy-duty hitch, trailer wiring, and sometimes an integrated trailer brake controller.

  • Rear axle ratio: Lower numerical gear ratios (higher numbers like 3.92) typically increase towing capability but may impact fuel economy.

  • Drivetrain: 4x4 versions can have slightly different ratings due to drivetrain losses compared with 2WD models.

  • Cab and bed configuration: Crew Cab and Quad Cab variants with different bed lengths have distinct towing ratings.

  • Payload vs. trailer weight: Always consider tongue weight (roughly 10–15% of the trailer weight) and ensure the combined weight does not exceed GCWR and the vehicle’s payload rating.


To confirm your exact figure, check the door jamb sticker on the specific truck, consult the owner's manual, or reference official Ram specifications for your exact build year and configuration. Never exceed the stated towing rating for safe trailing and vehicle performance.


Summary


The 2014 Ram 1500 offers a broad towing range: about 7,500–7,800 pounds with the 3.6L V6, 9,000–9,800 pounds with the EcoDiesel, and 9,700–10,450 pounds with the 5.7L Hemi, depending on axle ratio, cab/bed configuration, and tow-package equipment. Always verify the exact rating on the vehicle’s door sticker and adhere to it for safe towing.

What year Ram 1500 5.7 to avoid?


Years to avoid for the 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 include 2011-2012, primarily for "Hemi tick" and lifter issues, and 2014, due to reports of catastrophic steering failures. Other years to approach with caution are 2018-2019, due to electrical and infotainment system problems, and 2004 and 2013-2015, which have documented issues with engine stalling and transmission failures, respectively.
 
Years to be cautious of

  • 2011-2012: Notorious for "Hemi tick" from failed lifters or other engine issues. 2011 also had reports of engine failure, MDS issues, and water pump failures. 
  • 2013-2015: Documented severe transmission failures, particularly in 2013 and 2015 models. 2015 also had numerous recalls and problems with its electrical, transmission, engine, and fuel systems. 
  • 2014: Several complaints have logged total steering loss, sometimes at highway speeds. 
  • 2018-2019: Reports of issues with electrical and infotainment systems are more common. 
  • 2004: Engine stalling issues persisted, and there were power train concerns. 

What to look for in a reliable Hemi Ram 1500
  • 2010: Generally has better engine reliability, though it was known for a weak engine combined with poor fuel economy. 
  • 2018 and newer: The 5.7L Hemi V-8 is considered more reliable in these years. 
  • 2020 and newer: Models have fewer issues than late 2010s versions. 
  • Ram 1500 Classic models: These are also reported to do well, having fewer complex systems than the redesigned 2019 and newer models. 



How much horsepower does a 2014 Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi have?


A 2014 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi engine has 395 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 410 lb-ft of torque at 3,950 RPM. This engine was an option on various trims, including the Tradesman, SLT, and Sport models, and was available with a six-speed or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
 

  • Horsepower: 395 hp @ 5,600 RPM
  • Torque: 410 lb-ft @ 3,950 RPM
  • Transmission: Available with a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission



How much can a Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi tow?


A Ram 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine can tow between 10,350 lbs and 12,750 lbs, depending on the model year, configuration, and whether it has the eTorque system. The maximum capacity of 12,750 lbs is for the eTorque-equipped models, while other configurations will have slightly lower maximums. 
Towing capacity by year and features

  • 2021-2024 Models: Can tow up to 12,750 lbs when equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque. 
  • 2020 and earlier models: The maximum towing capacity is lower, around 11,610 lbs for 2019-2021 models with the 5.7L HEMI V8, but can be as high as 11,650 lbs on certain Big Horn trims with the 5.7L HEMI V8. 
  • Configuration matters: Other factors like the truck's specific trim, cab size, drivetrain (e.g., 4x2 vs. 4x4), and rear axle ratio (e.g., 3.21 vs. 3.92) will affect the final towing capacity. Always check your specific vehicle's owner's manual for the exact towing limits. 
  • eTorque system: The availability of the eTorque mild hybrid system increases the towing capacity significantly on newer models. 



What is the 80% rule for towing?


The 80% rule for towing is a safety guideline that recommends the weight of a fully loaded trailer should not exceed 80% of a vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for unpredictable conditions and reduces stress on the vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes, helping to ensure better handling and a longer lifespan for components.
 
How it works

  • Calculate your vehicle's limit: Find your vehicle's maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. 
  • Calculate 80% of the limit: Multiply the maximum towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your safe towing limit. For example, if your vehicle can tow 10,00010 comma 00010,000 pounds, your limit is 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds. 
  • Account for all weight: Ensure the total weight of the fully loaded trailer, including cargo and passengers in both the vehicle and the trailer, stays below this 80% limit. 

Why it's important
  • Safety margin: It provides a buffer for real-world factors like hills, curves, and sudden stops. 
  • Vehicle longevity: It reduces strain on key components like the engine, transmission, and brakes, which can extend their lifespan. 
  • Handling: Maintaining a margin helps ensure your vehicle can be steered and controlled effectively, even under load. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.