How much can the Ramcharger tow?
In general, a Ramcharger could tow roughly 6,000 to 9,000 pounds, depending on the engine, drivetrain and optional tow package.
Context and history
The Ramcharger was produced by Dodge from the mid-1970s through the early 1990s and is now a classic, no longer in active production. Because the model spans multiple generations with varying engines, transfer cases, axles and optional towing equipment, there is no single modern towing figure. For any specific vehicle, the exact towing rating must be taken from the original manual or the vehicle’s data plate.
Engine options over the years
Across its production run, the Ramcharger offered a range of V8 engines, with bigger displacement generally boosting potential towing capability. Early models commonly used 318-ci and 360-ci engines, while later years emphasized the 360 with heavier-duty components on some trims.
Tow packages and equipment
Some Ramchargers were available with factory tow packages that included upgraded cooling, cooling fans, suspension components, transmission cooling options, and enhanced braking systems. When these elements were included, the vehicle’s safe tow capacity typically rose compared with non-tow-package configurations.
Typical towing ranges by configuration
Below are approximate factory ratings for common Ramcharger configurations. They reflect the influence of engine size, drivetrain and optional tow equipment on towing capacity.
- 1974–1980 Ramcharger with the 360 V8 (5.9L) and optional tow package: roughly 7,000–8,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- 1981–1989 Ramcharger with 318 or 360 V8: typically around 6,500–8,000 pounds, with higher figures for models with tow packages and upgraded brakes.
- 1990–1993 Ramcharger with the 5.2L/318 and 5.9L/360: commonly about 7,000–8,500 pounds depending on gearing (axle ratio) and tow equipment.
There is a wide variation year by year, so these ranges should be treated as general guidance rather than exact specifications for a specific vehicle.
What affects Ramcharger towing capacity in practice
Several factors beyond the engine determine how much a Ramcharger can safely tow. Understanding these helps explain why two trucks with similar engines can have different ratings.
- Engine size and condition
- Transmission cooling and torque capacity
- Axle ratio and suspension setup
- Braking system, including any added trailer brakes
- Wheelbase, overall vehicle weight, and GVWR
- Tire condition and trailer weight distribution
In practice, a Ramcharger’s towing performance depends on how the vehicle is equipped and maintained. Always factor in safe margins and trailer braking when planning a tow.
How to verify the right rating for your Ramcharger
To ensure you tow within safe limits, verify the exact rating for your specific Ramcharger model and configuration by checking the following sources.
- Check the vehicle's data plate on the door jamb or under the hood for the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and towing capacity.
- Consult the original owner's manual or factory brochures for your year and trim level.
- If in doubt, contact a Dodge/Mopar vintage vehicle specialist or a dealership with archival information for the exact configuration.
Using the precise rating for your Ramcharger keeps you within safe bounds and preserves braking and handling performance.
Summary
The Ramcharger’s towing capacity varies by year, engine and equipment. Generally, classic Ramchargers could tow roughly 6,000 to 9,000 pounds when properly equipped, with higher ratings on models featuring larger V8s and tow packages. Because these are historical specifications, always verify the exact rating from the vehicle’s manual or data plate before towing.
