May 14, 2021

2021 Ram 1500 Maximum Towing Capacity

Lots of pickup drivers use their pickup for towing. As a result, customers often find their way into our Lum’s CDJR dealership looking for a machine that can tow a hefty sum. What’s the highest towing capacity one can get on the 2021 Ram 1500?

Silver 2021 Ram 1500 in wet terrain

When properly equipped, the 2021 Ram 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds. This rating can be achieved by using the 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 engine. This powerplant utilizes class-exclusive eTorque mild hybrid technology for help achieving this lofty number. If you’d like more information on how to equip your 2021 Ram 1500 for maximum tow capabilities, don’t hesitate to ask. 

The folks over at Ram describe the 1500 as a great machine for hauling things like boats and travel trailers, along with ATVs and other recreational vehicles. If you’re looking to haul bigger items, we recommend looking to a heavy-duty Ram model.

What does tow capacity mean?

Towing capacity figures refer to the maximum weight that a vehicle can tow after the weight of the vehicle, as well as any cargo, has been added in.

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What factors affect the towing capacity I get in my Ram 1500?

  • Different Ram 1500 builds will provide different towing capacities. The biggest factors that affect this figure are engine and transmission choice; powerplants that provide more horsepower and more torque typically mean more towing power.
  • Another factor to look at is the axle ratio. Models with a higher axle ratio provide more towing power, while a lower axle ratio provides greater engine efficiency. Those who have watched the television series Full Metal Alchemist will recognize this as the law of “Equivalent Exchange.”
  • But that’s not all. Towers* should also pay attention to the type of hitch receiver that their vehicle is equipped with. Class 1 receivers are rated to haul around 2,000 pounds, while Class 5 can handle up to 23,000. If you’re looking to pull even more than that, opt for a fifth wheel or a gooseneck trailer.
  • In addition, the wheel drive system of your ride will affect the tow rating. Two-wheel drive setups actually tend to have higher towing and payload capacities. This is because 4×4 systems add more weight to the truck. However, 4×4 can provide greater levels of control.
  • Finally, note that if you upfit your Ram 1500, the added weight of the upfit gets subtracted from the towing capacity.

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*Pronounced “toe-urs.” We are referring to individuals that perform the act of towing, not to tall structures.