What is the towing capacity of a 1986 Dodge W150?
The towing capacity of a 1986 Dodge W150 varies by engine, drivetrain, gearing and equipment, rather than a single fixed number. In general, most W150s from that era could tow roughly 6,000 to 8,000 pounds, with higher ratings possible on models equipped with a larger V8 and a towing package. The exact figure you’ll see on a spec sheet depends on the truck’s configuration and options.
What determines the towing capacity?
Several factors from a 1986 Dodge W150 influence how much it can pull. A quick look at these variables helps explain why ratings differ between identical-looking trucks.
- Engine choice (318 V8 vs. 360 V8) and its torque output
- Transmission type (manual vs. automatic) and its gearing
- Axle ratio and overall drivetrain configuration (2WD vs. 4x4)
- Availability of a factory towing package or heavy-duty options
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and payload capacity
In practice, a W150 equipped with a larger V8 and towing package typically offers a higher tow rating than base-trim configurations, especially when paired with favorable gearing and a two-wheel-drive setup.
Estimated towing capacity ranges by configuration
The ranges below reflect common configurations from the era; exact ratings come from the build sheet or window sticker for a given truck.
- W150 2WD with a 318 V8 (5.2L): approximately 6,000–7,500 pounds
- W150 2WD with a 360 V8 (5.9L): approximately 7,000–8,500 pounds
- W150 4x4 with a 360 V8 and towing package: approximately 7,500–9,000 pounds
- W150 configurations with especially tall gearing or non-towing-focused setups may fall toward the lower end
These numbers are approximate and depend on the exact axle ratio, GVWR, and whether a towing package was installed. For a precise figure, consult the original window sticker or the truck’s build sheet.
How to verify the exact rating on a specific W150
To determine the official towing capacity for a particular 1986 W150, use these steps to verify the rating associated with that truck’s configuration.
- Check the original window sticker for “Maximum trailer weight” or “Tow rating.”
- Review the build sheet or VIN-derived documentation from Mopar/Chrysler archives if available.
- Consult the owner’s manual for towing specifications and safety guidelines relevant to the engine and transmission installed.
- Inspect the GVWR and axle ratio stamps on the door jamb or under the hood to confirm the exact specifications.
Always confirm the stated capacity against real-world considerations like trailer brakes, tongue weight, and braking requirements. With vintage trucks, wear, modifications, and chassis condition can affect safe towing limits.
Summary
The 1986 Dodge W150’s towing capacity is not a single fixed figure; it depends on the engine, transmission, axle ratio, and options installed. In general, expect a range from about 6,000 to 9,000 pounds depending on configuration, with the higher end associated with the 360 V8 and towing equipment. For exact numbers, reference the vehicle’s original data (window sticker or build sheet) and apply safe towing practices suited to an aging truck.
What is the towing capacity of a 1978 Dodge W150?
Rated to 10,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 1,000 lbs. tongue weight.
How much can a 1987 W150 tow?
Rated to 6,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 600 lbs. tongue weight.
What is the towing capacity of a 1988 D150?
Gross Towing Weight (Lbs): 5000 Lbs. Tongue Weight Capacity (Lbs): 500 Lbs. Weight of Hitch (Lbs): 58 Lbs.
What is the towing capacity of a 1986 Dodge Ram?
The 1986 Dodge 1/2 ton 4x4 typically has a towing capacity around 7,000 lbs stock. To tow a 9,995 lbs GVWR gooseneck camper safely, upgrades are needed: heavy-duty suspension springs, upgraded brakes (preferably electric trailer brakes), and a reinforced hitch system rated for gooseneck loads.
