What Ram 1500 can tow 12000 lbs?

The Ram 1500 models capable of towing 12,000 pounds or more are limited to two powertrain configurations: the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with eTorque paired with the Max Tow package, and the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with the appropriate towing equipment. Other engine options generally fall short of this 12,000-pound threshold.

Overview: how Ram 1500 towing is determined

Towing capacity for the Ram 1500 depends on a combination of engine choice, available towing packages, axle gearing, transmission, and whether you select rear- or four-wheel drive. The 12,000-pound benchmark is achievable only with specific high-torque setups and proper equipment from the factory window sticker or the dealer’s spec sheet.

Powertrains that meet or exceed 12,000 pounds

5.7L Hemi V8 with eTorque (Max Tow)

With the eTorque mild-hybrid system and the Max Tow package, the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 can tow up to about 12,750 pounds when properly equipped. This configuration is the primary gasoline option in the Ram 1500 lineup that reaches the 12k-plus range.

3.0L EcoDiesel V6

The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 achieves a maximum tow rating around 12,560 pounds under the right setup and gear choices. It offers a strong diesel torque profile that supports heavy towing with efficient highway performance.

Note: Actual towing capacity depends on the exact model year, axle ratio, drivetrain (4x2 vs 4x4), cab/bed configuration, and whether the vehicle is equipped with the required Tow/Max Tow packages and other supplementary equipment. Always verify the specific rating on the window sticker or with a Ram dealer for the precise build you’re considering.

What to consider when targeting 12,000 pounds

Beyond the engine, consider payload capacity, hitch setup, trailer brakes, weight distribution, and the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Towing near the maximum rating requires careful planning, including ensuring the trailer’s weight is within the charted limits and that the Ram 1500’s payload can handle the hitch, fuel, passengers, and cargo involved in the trip.

Summary

To tow 12,000 pounds or more with a current Ram 1500, you’ll be looking at either the 5.7L Hemi V8 with eTorque and the Max Tow package (up to 12,750 lbs) or the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (up to about 12,560 lbs) with the appropriate equipment. Other powertrains generally do not reach the 12k threshold. For any specific configuration or model year, consult the official Ram specifications or your dealer to confirm the exact towing capacity.

What is the towing capacity of the 3.6 L Ram 1500?

The towing capacity for a Ram 1500 with the 3.6L V6 engine is up to 7,730 pounds when equipped with the Trailer Tow Package. Without the package, the standard towing capacity is lower, around 7,510 pounds for some model years. 
This video shows the performance of a Ram 1500 V6 towing a trailer: 59sVITAL ExplorerYouTube · Aug 18, 2021

• With Trailer Tow Package: Up to 7,730 lbs. 
• Without Trailer Tow Package: Around 7,510 lbs for some models. 
• Engine: 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque, producing 305 horsepower and 269-273 lb-ft of torque. 

This video demonstrates the towing performance of a Ram 1500 with a V6 engine: 1mStevy FauxYouTube · Aug 8, 2022

Which Ram 1500 has the highest towing capacity?

The Ram 1500 with the highest towing capacity is equipped with the 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine with the eTorque mild-hybrid system, which can tow up to 12,750 pounds when properly configured. This capacity is available on specific trim levels and cab/drivetrain configurations. 

• Engine and Powertrain: The 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque is the key to achieving the maximum towing capacity. 
• Maximum Capacity: The maximum towing capacity is 12,750 pounds. 
• Configuration: To reach this maximum, the truck must be properly equipped with a specific combination of cab style (like a Quad Cab), drivetrain (like 4x2), and axle ratio. 
• Other Engines: Other engine options have lower towing capacities, such as the standard 5.7L HEMI V8 (up to 11,610 lbs), the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (up to 7,730 lbs), and the supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 (up to 8,100 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. 

Can a Ram 1500 tow 12000 pounds?

Can't generate an AI overview right now. Try again later.