What is the towing capacity of the Ramcharger?
The Ramcharger's towing capacity varies with engine, drivetrain, and equipment, but factory ratings from the 1970s typically fall in the 6,000–9,000-pound range.
The Ramcharger was Dodge’s full-size SUV produced mainly from 1974 to 1981, sharing engineering with contemporary pickups and offering a range of V8 engines (such as the 318, 360, and big-block 400/440) plus two- or four-wheel drive. Towing ratings in period brochures depended on engine choice, transmission, axle gearing, cooling upgrades, and whether a factory towing package was installed. The following outlines typical ranges seen across configurations to help anchor what owners could expect in that era.
Towing capacity by configuration
Below are typical factory towing ranges for Ramcharger configurations from the production era, based on engine type and available tow packages.
- Small-block V8s (318/360) with standard equipment: roughly 6,000–7,500 pounds.
- Big-block V8s (400/440) with a heavy-duty towing package: roughly 7,500–9,000 pounds.
- Four-wheel-drive (4x4) variants with towing gear: generally aligned with big-block figures, typically in the 7,000–9,000-pound range depending on year and specific equipment.
Note that these numbers reflect factory ratings published for the era and can vary by year, trim, and the presence of a towing package. Real-world towing capability also depends on payload, hitch hardware, cooling systems, and overall vehicle condition.
Practical considerations for classic Ramchargers
Because these are classic vehicles, many factors influence safe towing today. Always consult the specific vehicle’s manual or the original window sticker for a given chassis, and consider a professional assessment of the radiator/cooling system, transmission condition, suspension, and braking system before attempting to tow heavy loads.
Maintenance and safety
Prioritize a thorough inspection of the radiator and A/C cooling system, transmission cooler if applicable, hitch and wiring integrity, and suspension components. Wear and age can affect towing performance more than the published numbers suggest.
Summary
The Ramcharger’s towing capacity was not a single fixed number; it varied with engine choice, drivetrain, and optional towing equipment. Across its production years, it generally ranged from about 6,000 pounds for smaller V8 configurations up to around 9,000 pounds for big-block setups with proper packages. For enthusiasts and restorers, the key is to verify the exact configuration of any given vehicle and to approach towing with careful regard for equipment, maintenance, and load planning.
