What size tires are on the original Ram 1500?
The original Ram 1500 did not have a single universal tire size. The first-generation Dodge Ram 1500, produced from 1994 through 2001, offered multiple OE tire sizes depending on wheel choice and trim, with 15-inch wheels common on base setups and 16-inch wheels appearing on higher trims.
To determine the exact factory size for a specific truck, you must check the door placard, the owner's manual, or the original build sheet. Below is a guide to understanding the typical ranges and how to verify your truck’s exact size.
First-generation Ram 1500 wheel sizes and common tires
The following patterns reflect typical factory setups across the 1994–2001 Ram 1500 lineup. They are not universal and exceptions exist based on trim, options, and production year.
- 15-inch wheel configurations commonly used tires around 28.8–29.1 inches in overall diameter, such as P225/75R15 or P235/75R15 on base and some mid-range trims.
- 16-inch wheel configurations offered wider tires, commonly in the P265/75R16 or P245/75R16 range on higher trims and some 4x4 models.
Concluding: While 15" setups were standard on many early Ram 1500s, 16" wheels became more common with mid-to-late production years and higher trims, delivering larger overall tire diameters and different load ratings.
How to verify the exact original tire size for your Ram 1500
To nail down the precise OE tire size for your specific truck, use these verification steps:
- Check the driver’s door placard. It lists the recommended tire sizes and the corresponding wheel sizes for the front and rear axles.
- Look up the owner's manual or a factory window sticker (if available), which often copies the OE tire size and load ratings.
- Use the VIN to pull the original equipment list from official Mopar literature or a trusted VIN decoder; some sites include OE tire/wheel data.
- Inspect the tires currently on the truck. The sidewall will show the size, but if the tires have been replaced, this may not reflect the original equipment.
- Consult Ram dealer parts departments or enthusiast forums with your VIN/year/trim for confirmation of the exact OE size for your configuration.
Concluding: The door placard and the official documentation are the most reliable sources for the precise original tire size, since the Ram 1500’s first generation offered multiple sizes that varied by trim and wheel package.
Summary
The original Ram 1500 did not have one universal tire size. Across the 1994–2001 first generation, wheel sizes ranged from 15-inch to 16-inch, with common OE tire sizes including 225/75R15, 235/75R15, 245/75R16, and 265/75R16 depending on trim and wheel option. To know your exact factory size, check the door placard, manual, or VIN-based build sheet, and consult dealer or enthusiast resources if needed.
What years to avoid for the 5.7 Hemi RAM 1500?
Years to be cautious with the 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 include 2011 due to a mix of electrical and engine issues, 2012, which is frequently cited for transmission problems and engine "tick," and 2019, the first year of a new generation that had many recalls and reported issues, especially with electrical systems.
Specific years to avoid
- 2011: Reported with problems like electrical issues (TIPM), premature engine failure, and Multi-Displacement System (MDS) malfunctions.
- 2012: Often mentioned for the "Hemi tick" noise, particularly related to lifter failure, and severe transmission failures.
- 2019: As the first model year of the fifth generation, it is associated with numerous recalls and complaints across various systems, including airbags, transmission, and electrical components.
General issues and considerations
- Hemi tick: This can occur in earlier models and is often caused by failed lifters or exhaust manifold leaks. While later 2022 and newer models have revised oil specifications, maintenance is crucial for all years to help prevent this.
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module): This was a common issue across many modern RAM pickups, leading to various electrical malfunctions like non-deploying airbags or non-working A/C and power windows.
- Exhaust Manifolds: Exhaust manifolds are prone to cracking, especially in colder climates. A replacement with a stronger aftermarket or diesel manifold is often recommended.
What are the factory size tires on a RAM 1500?
The stock tire size for a Ram 1500 varies by trim level and model year, commonly ranging from 265/70R17 to 285/45R22. Examples of common sizes include 275/65R18 (often for mid-level trims like Big Horn) and 275/55R20 (frequently used on Laramie, Limited, and Lone Star trims). Always check the sticker on your driver's side door jamb for the most accurate information for your specific truck, says this YouTube video.
Common stock tire sizes by trim
- Base/Mid-level trims:
- 265/70R17
- 275/65R18
- 275/55R20
- Higher-end/Sport trims:
- 275/55R20
- 285/45R22
- TRX model:
- LT325/65R18
How to find your specific tire size
The most reliable way to find your vehicle's correct tire size is to check the sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. This sticker will list the original equipment (OE) tire size and recommended tire pressure for your specific truck configuration.
What size tires fit a 1999 Dodge RAM 1500?
Dodge Ram 1500 II (BR/BE) 3.9
| Tire | Rim | Backspacing mm inches |
|---|---|---|
| OE 225/75R16 110S | 7Jx16 ET31.75 | 133 5.24 |
| OE 245/75R16 112S | 7Jx16 ET31.75 | 133 5.24 |
| 265/75R16 112S | 7Jx16 ET31.75 | 133 5.24 |
| 225/70R17 110S | 7Jx17 ET25.4 | 127 5.00 |
What size rims are on a Ram 1500 Classic?
What size rims does the RAM 1500 have? Most OE RAM 1500 rims range in diameter from 17'' to 22''. No matter which wheel size your RAM rests on, we've got the rim selection you need to customize your rig's look.
