What is the towing capacity of the Ram 1500 4x2?

The Ram 1500 4x2 can tow roughly 7,700 to 12,750 pounds, depending on the engine and equipment. This range reflects typical configurations across recent model years.

In practice, the exact towing capacity for a given Ram 1500 4x2 depends on engine choice, transmission, cab/bed size, axle ratio, and whether a factory towing package is installed. This article outlines the main engine options and their approximate maximum tow ratings, along with how to verify the precise number for your specific vehicle.

What affects towing capacity

Towing capacity isn’t a single figure. It’s determined by the engine’s torque output, transmission design, axle ratio, suspension setup, and the presence of towing hardware. Heavier-duty options or added towing equipment can raise the official rating, while configurations with lighter payloads or different bodies may lower it. Always refer to the window sticker and official Ram specifications for your exact build.

Towing ratings by engine and setup

Typical maximums for the 4x2 Ram 1500 are shown below by engine. Numbers assume the standard towing package and common drivetrain configurations.

3.6-liter V6 eTorque (4x2)

Maximum tow rating for the 3.6L V6 eTorque in a 4x2 setup is:

• Up to 7,730 pounds (approximate figure for common 4x2 configurations with this engine).

Notes: Ratings can vary with cab/bed size and axle ratio. Always check the specific window sticker for your vehicle.

5.7-liter Hemi V8 (4x2)

Maximum tow rating for the 5.7L Hemi V8 in a 4x2 setup is:

• Up to 12,750 pounds (when properly equipped with the appropriate towing package and gear).

Notes: The high-end rating typically requires the factory towing package and compatible axle ratio; actual numbers depend on configuration and model year.

3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 (4x2)

Maximum tow rating for the 3.0L EcoDiesel in a 4x2 setup is:

• Up to 9,210 pounds (common figure for EcoDiesel in 4x2 configurations with the right options).

Notes: Diesel engines emphasize torque for towing; exact ratings vary with equipment and year.

How to verify your exact rating

To confirm the precise towing capacity for a specific Ram 1500 4x2, use these steps.

1. Check the door jamb sticker on the driver’s side for the tow rating specific to your truck.


2. Consult the owner’s manual or Ram’s official spec sheet for your exact engine, cab/bed, and drivetrain combination.


3. If you have a dealer or online configuration tool, enter your VIN to pull the exact rating and required equipment.

Your actual safe towing limit should account for payload (including passengers and cargo), tongue weight, trailer brakes, and safety gear. When in doubt, err on the side of a lower rating to maintain safe handling and braking distances.

Summary

For the Ram 1500 4x2, the towing capacity spans roughly 7,700 pounds with the base 3.6L V6 to about 12,750 pounds with the 5.7L Hemi V8. The EcoDiesel offers a middle ground of around 9,210 pounds. Always verify the exact figure for your specific truck using the window sticker, VIN, or official Ram documentation, and consider payload, trailer specs, and safety features when planning a tow. This ensures you rely on an accurate, up-to-date rating for your configuration.

How much can a 2WD Ram 1500 tow?

Is the Ram 1500 a good towing vehicle? A new Ram 1500 is an excellent towing vehicle. It has a maximum towing capacity of over 11,500 pounds1 and combines that strength with innovative features like available Trailer Reverse Steering Control to make hauling loads easier than ever.

What is the towing capacity of the Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi?

The towing capacity for a Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi engine ranges from around 8,000 lbs to a maximum of 12,750 lbs, depending on the specific configuration. Key factors like the axle ratio, cab type, bed length, and whether it's a 4x2 or 4x4 system significantly impact the towing limit. For the highest capacity, a properly equipped truck will have the 5.7L Hemi with eTorque, a 3.92 axle ratio, and a 4x2 driveline.
 
Factors that affect towing capacity

• Axle Ratio: The axle ratio is a major factor. A 3.92 gear ratio allows for a much higher towing capacity than a 3.21 gear ratio, which is often the standard ratio.
• Drivetrain: A 4x2 (two-wheel drive) configuration can achieve the highest towing capacity, while a 4x4 (four-wheel drive) will have a lower limit.
• Cab and Bed Size: The specific cab type (e.g., Quad Cab vs. Crew Cab) and bed length (e.g., 6'4" vs. 5'7") also influence the overall towing rating. 

Examples of towing capacity based on configuration

• Maximum towing capacity: Up to 12,750 lbs is achievable with the 5.7L Hemi with eTorque in a specific configuration, such as a Quad Cab 4x2 with a 6'4" bed and 3.92 gears.
• Lower towing capacity: A more common configuration, such as a Crew Cab 4x4 with a 5.7 ft bed and a 3.21 gear ratio, has a maximum tow rating of around 8,200 lbs. 

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. 

Do 2WD trucks have higher towing capacity?

While both options have their advantages, the general rule is that 2WD trucks tend to have a slightly higher towing capacity than their 4WD counterparts, thanks to their lighter weight and mechanical simplicity.