What is the payload of the Ram 5500 rollback?
The payload of a Ram 5500 rollback typically ranges from about 3,500 to 6,000 pounds, depending on configuration. Exact figures depend on GVWR, cab and bed choice, and the weight of the rollback equipment.
The Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty chassis cab frequently used for tow and recovery roles. When a rollback bed and related hardware are installed, they add weight and reduce the usable payload relative to a bare chassis. Payload is defined as the amount of cargo the vehicle can carry safely, and it is calculated as the vehicle’s GVWR minus its curb weight and the weight of installed equipment. Fleet operators and owners should always verify the specific figure on the vehicle’s certification label and official spec sheets for their exact build.
What affects payload on a Ram 5500 rollback
Several factors determine how much you can haul on a Ram 5500 rollback. Here is what to consider.
- GVWR variations by model year and trim influence the maximum allowable weight.
- Curb weight of the particular configuration (cab, bed, and standard equipment).
- Weight of the rollback bed, wheel-lift, winch, and related hydraulics.
- Cab configuration and bed length, which affect overall vehicle weight.
- Engine and drivetrain options, which can alter weight and payload capacity.
- Additional options or aftermarket equipment (toolboxes, auxiliary tanks, lighting, storage) that add weight.
In short, payload is highly configuration-dependent; always check the door jamb label or the manufacturer’s spec sheet to get the exact figure for a given truck.
Typical payload ranges by common Ram 5500 rollback setups
Fleet and dealer data show a range of payloads depending on whether the truck is a regular cab, crew cab, wheelbase, and the weight of the rollback system installed. The ranges below reflect common configurations used by tow and recovery operators.
- Regular cab with a standard or mid-length rollback bed: roughly 4,500–6,000 pounds
- Crew cab with longer wheelbase and heavier rollback equipment: roughly 3,500–5,500 pounds
- Diesel-powered or high-GVWR variants with substantial rollback hardware: roughly 3,500–5,000 pounds
- Dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setups or extreme GVWR configurations: up to about 6,000–7,000 pounds
Concluding note: The exact payload for any individual Ram 5500 rollback must be read from the vehicle’s GVWR label or the official spec sheet provided by the manufacturer or dealer.
How to verify payload on your Ram 5500 rollback
To confirm the payload for a specific truck, locate the GVWR label on the driver’s side door jamb and note the GVWR figure. Subtract the curb weight (as listed in the owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s specifications) and the weight of the rollback equipment itself if you’re calculating usable payload for cargo. Always ensure that loads are distributed to maintain stability and comply with axle and braking specifications.
For precise numbers, consult the VIN-specific documentation or contact the dealer where the truck was built or purchased.
Summary
The Ram 5500 rollback’s payload is not a single fixed value; it varies with GVWR, curb weight, cab/bed configuration, and the weight of the rollback equipment. Typical practical ranges fall roughly between 3,500 and 6,000 pounds, with some high-GVWR or DRW configurations reaching around 7,000 pounds. Always verify the exact payload using the vehicle’s certification label and official spec sheets before loading or operating.
