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What is the axle rating of the Ram 5500?


The Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty truck known for its robust performance and reliability, making it a popular choice for commercial and industrial applications. One of the critical specifications that potential buyers and current owners should be aware of is the axle rating. This article will delve into what axle ratings mean, specifically for the Ram 5500, and why they are essential for vehicle performance and safety.


What is Axle Rating?


Axle rating refers to the maximum weight that an axle can safely carry. This rating is crucial for ensuring that the vehicle can handle the loads it is designed for without compromising safety or performance. Exceeding the axle rating can lead to severe mechanical failures, including axle breakage or tire blowouts.


Axle Ratings for the Ram 5500


The Ram 5500 is equipped with heavy-duty axles designed to support substantial loads. The axle ratings for the Ram 5500 typically include:



  • Front Axle Rating: The front axle rating for the Ram 5500 is generally around 5,000 to 7,000 pounds, depending on the specific configuration and options chosen.

  • Rear Axle Rating: The rear axle rating can range from 10,000 to 14,000 pounds, again depending on the model and specifications.


These ratings ensure that the Ram 5500 can handle heavy loads, making it suitable for towing and hauling tasks commonly required in commercial settings.


Importance of Axle Ratings


Understanding the axle ratings of your vehicle is vital for several reasons:



  • Safety: Adhering to the axle ratings helps prevent accidents caused by overloading.

  • Performance: Properly rated axles ensure that the vehicle performs optimally under load, maintaining stability and control.

  • Longevity: Staying within the axle ratings can extend the lifespan of the vehicle's components, reducing maintenance costs over time.


Conclusion


In summary, the axle rating of the Ram 5500 is a critical specification that should not be overlooked. By understanding and respecting these ratings, owners can ensure their vehicles operate safely and efficiently, making the most of their investment in this powerful truck.


Frequently Asked Questions

What axle does a Ram 5500 have?


Dodge and Ram use the Dana Spicer S-111 Rear Axle in 2008-2018 Ram 4500 and Ram 5500 series Cab and Chassis Trucks. The S111 Rear Axle features a welded housing, 12-1/4" (311 mm) ring gear, and a drop-out type carrier assembly.



Does Ram use Dana axles?


In addition to axles, Dana supplies cylinder head gaskets for the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX. Dana is a world leader in providing power-conveyance and energy-management solutions that are engineered to improve the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of light vehicles, commercial vehicles, and off-highway equipment.



What is a Ram 5500 rated for?


The heavy-hitting 2024 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab boasts a maximum towing capacity of 35,150 pounds 1 when equipped with the available 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 engine and a maximum payload capacity of 12,550 pounds when equipped with the 6.4L HEMI® V8 engine.



What is the top speed of the Ram 5500?


Features

Engine
TRADESMAN 4x2 6.4L V8 Heavy-Duty HEMI® EngineStandardSLT 4x2 6.4L V8 Heavy-Duty HEMI® EngineStandard
6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine
TRADESMAN 4x2 6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel EngineOptionalSLT 4x2 6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel EngineOptional
77 MPH Maximum Speed



What is the rear axle rating of the Ram 5500?


13500



What is the axle rating?


What makes up the axle rating? The axle rating limit includes the weight of the trailer and all of the trailer's cargo. Oftentimes, people forget to factor in the total weight of the trailer when empty before loading it with cargo. For example, a trailer that has two 3,500 lb axles has an axle rating of 7,000 pounds.



What class truck is a Ram 5500?


- Ram Chassis Cab 3500, 4500 and 5500 trucks are the capability halo trucks of the Ram Commercial brand. The Ram Chassis Cab 3500, 4500 and 5500 represent Class 3, 4 and 5 Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR). Additionally, Ram offers a unique 10,000 pounds GVW Class 2 Chassis Cab.



What is the difference between Ram 5500 and Ford F-550?


The Ram 5500 has a 6.4 liter V8 gas-powered engine with 370 horsepower. Both trucks come with a diesel engine option. The F-550 has a 6.7 liter Power Stroke turbo diesel engine with 330 horsepower and 825 lbs/tq. The 5500 diesel has a 6.7-liter engine with 800 lbs/tq and 360 horsepower.



Do you need a CDL to drive a Ram 4500?


With some exceptions, you don't need a CDL if your truck has a GVWR under 26,000 pounds, even if it has air brakes (the exceptions are HAZMAT vehicles and those transporting more than 16 passengers).



Which Ram axle ratio is best for towing?


If you are towing then a 3.92 is the ratio you want, you can tow with a 3.55 or a 3.23 but they are not optimal and will work the transmission harder and lug the engine more because the RPM's will be lower.


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.