The Ram 3500 is built for people who need serious power and dependability. Whether you’re towing a heavy fifth wheel, hauling work equipment, or pulling a large trailer, the Ram 3500 handles it all with ease.
The Ram 3500 towing capacity ranges from 16,980 to 37,090 pounds, depending on configuration. With the High-Output 6.7L Cummins Diesel, it tows up to 36,610 lbs and offers a payload of up to 7,680 pounds.
In this article, you’ll discover the Ram 3500’s full towing capacity, engine options, payload limits, and tips for safer heavy hauling.
2025 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity Overview
The 2025 Ram 3500 can tow up to an impressive 36,610 pounds when properly equipped. This number isn’t just for bragging rights—it proves Ram’s focus on engineering precision.
Depending on your chosen engine, cab configuration, drive system, and axle ratio, the towing figure can change.
The gas-powered 6.4-liter HEMI V8 can handle around 18,150 pounds, while the diesel-powered 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel takes things further. For the ultimate pulling power, the High-Output Cummins Diesel pushes the Ram 3500 to the top of its class.
Engine Options and Performance Specs
The 2025 Ram 3500 offers three main engine choices, each built for specific types of work and driving styles.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Max Towing |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 (Gas) | 410 hp | 429 lb-ft | ~18,150 lb |
| 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 | 370 hp | 850 lb-ft | ~22,660 lb |
| 6.7L High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 | 420 hp | 1,075 lb-ft | 36,610 lb |
The 6.4L HEMI is great for those who prefer a gas engine with lower upfront costs and easier maintenance.
The standard 6.7L Cummins Diesel is the balanced choice, providing outstanding torque and fuel efficiency. But the star of the lineup is the High-Output Cummins, which pairs incredible torque with the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission to deliver record-breaking towing strength.
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Maximum Towing Capacity by Configuration (Chart)
Towing capability depends heavily on truck configuration. Factors like cab size, bed length, drive type (4×2 or 4×4), and axle ratio all affect the total towing number.
| Configuration | Engine | Drivetrain | Max Towing Capacity |
| Regular Cab 8’ Box | 6.4L HEMI V8 | 4×2 | 18,150 lb |
| Crew Cab 8’ Box | 6.7L Cummins Diesel | 4×2 | 22,660 lb |
| Crew Cab 8’ Box | 6.7L High-Output Diesel | 4×4 | 36,610 lb |
| Mega Cab 6’4” Box | 6.7L Cummins Diesel | 4×4 | 21,540 lb |
The Crew Cab Long Box 4×4 Dual Rear Wheel version equipped with the High-Output Cummins is the combination that achieves the 36,610-pound rating. It’s built for commercial-grade hauling and large gooseneck trailers.
Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Towing Explained
If you’re planning to tow more than 20,000 pounds, a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch setup is essential. These systems place the trailer’s weight directly over the truck’s rear axle, improving stability and control compared to a conventional bumper-pull trailer.
The Ram 3500 offers a factory-installed fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep package, which includes frame-mounted hardware and wiring connections built right into the bed.
This setup not only increases the truck’s capability but also ensures a safer, smoother towing experience. Whether you’re towing a large RV or heavy equipment, this configuration gives you peace of mind on long hauls.
Real-World Towing: What You Can Actually Tow
Numbers are great, but what can those figures really mean in the real world? With 36,610 pounds of capacity, you could comfortably tow:
- A large fifth-wheel camper or travel trailer
- Two fully loaded horse trailers
- A flatbed carrying construction machinery
- A loaded car hauler with multiple vehicles
However, real-world towing rarely matches the brochure number. Payload (passengers, fuel, cargo) reduces the available towing weight. The key is to keep at least a 10% safety margin below the rated capacity. Also, maintaining proper tongue weight (10–15%) ensures better stability and braking control.
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Ram 3500 Towing Features and Technology
Towing something heavy requires more than just raw power—it demands control, safety, and visibility. Ram integrates advanced towing technologies across the 3500 lineup, making it easier and safer for both beginners and professionals.
- Trailer Sway Control – Helps keep the trailer steady during crosswinds or lane changes.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller – Syncs the trailer’s brakes with the truck for smoother stops.
- 360° Surround View Camera – Gives a complete top-down view of the truck and trailer, making hookups and maneuvers simple.
- Digital Rearview Mirror with Tow Mode – Displays a live feed from a rear camera, offering clear visibility even with a large trailer attached.
- Auto-Level Rear Suspension – Adjusts automatically to keep the truck level under heavy loads.
Together, these features make towing less stressful and much safer, even on rough terrain or in heavy traffic.
Ram 3500 vs Ford F-350 vs Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
To understand how strong the Ram 3500 really is, let’s see how it stacks up against its closest rivals.
| Truck | Max Towing Capacity | Max Torque | Transmission |
| Ram 3500 (HO Diesel) | 36,610 lb | 1,075 lb-ft | 8-speed auto |
| Ford F-350 Power Stroke | 38,000 lb (approx.) | 1,200 lb-ft | 10-speed auto |
| Chevy Silverado 3500 Duramax | 36,000 lb | 975 lb-ft | 10-speed auto |
While Ford edges slightly higher in maximum towing, the Ram 3500 holds its own with smoother ride quality, quieter cabin, and outstanding torque. Chevy’s Duramax offers refined performance, but Ram’s interior luxury and balanced power delivery make it the favorite among many owners who use their trucks for both work and travel.
How to Choose the Right Ram 3500 for Your Needs
Choosing the right Ram 3500 depends on what you tow and how often you tow it.
- Light-to-Medium Towing (up to 18,000 lb): The 6.4L HEMI V8 is ideal. It’s cost-effective, reliable, and needs less maintenance than a diesel.
- Heavy Towing and Frequent Use: The 6.7L Cummins Diesel offers great torque and fuel economy for regular heavy loads.
- Maximum Commercial Power: Go for the High-Output Cummins with dual rear wheels. It’s the best choice for professional haulers and large fifth-wheel trailers.
Other factors like axle ratio (higher ratios increase towing strength), 4×4 vs 4×2, and cab size also influence performance. If you plan to tow often, choose factory towing prep—it adds value and ensures everything is engineered for safe operation.
Ram 2500 Towing Capacity
The Ram 2500 can tow up to 20,000 pounds when properly equipped. Its 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine gives excellent torque for big jobs, while the 6.4L HEMI V8 offers solid power for lighter towing and everyday hauling needs.
2022 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 2022 Ram 3500 can tow up to 37,090 pounds with the High-Output 6.7L Cummins Diesel. It’s one of the most powerful trucks of its time, offering smooth pulling, great stability, and advanced trailer control systems for safe towing.
2021 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
In 2021, the Ram 3500 delivered up to 37,100 pounds of towing strength with the High-Output Cummins engine. This model combined best-in-class torque, reliable performance, and smart towing tech, making it ideal for heavy trailers and commercial use.
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2020 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 2020 Ram 3500 could tow up to 35,100 pounds with its 6.7L Cummins High-Output Diesel engine. It offered strong power, a smooth transmission, and excellent handling, helping drivers haul large campers, boats, and heavy work equipment with ease.
2018 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 2018 Ram 3500 reached 31,210 pounds of maximum towing when equipped with the Cummins Turbo Diesel and dual-rear-wheel setup. It was known for reliability, powerful torque, and its ability to handle serious workloads without losing comfort or stability.
2017 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 2017 Ram 3500 offered 31,210 pounds of towing capability with the Cummins Diesel engine. It provided strong torque and smooth control, making it perfect for hauling large trailers, farm equipment, and other heavy-duty loads confidently and safely.
2016 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
In 2016, the Ram 3500 had a maximum towing capacity of 31,210 pounds when properly equipped. Its High-Output Cummins Diesel produced massive torque, giving owners excellent strength for pulling gooseneck trailers, construction gear, or large recreational vehicles.
Ram 3500 Towing Capacity by Year
Ram 3500 towing capacity has grown steadily over time. From about 31,000 pounds in 2016–2018, it increased to 35,000 pounds by 2020, and now hits over 36,000 pounds in 2025 thanks to stronger engines and smarter towing technology.
Ram 3500 Towing Capacity Diesel
The diesel-powered Ram 3500 is the towing champion. With the 6.7L Cummins High-Output engine, it can tow more than 36,000 pounds, offering outstanding torque, better fuel efficiency, and smoother towing for long hauls or commercial work.
Ram 3500 Towing Capacity Upgrade
You can improve towing ability with factory upgrades like gooseneck prep kits, heavy-duty axles, or better suspension. However, the best upgrade is choosing the High-Output Cummins Diesel, which gives the Ram 3500 its top towing power.
Ram 3500 Towing Capacity Single Wheel
The single-rear-wheel Ram 3500 can tow around 21,000 to 23,000 pounds, depending on the engine. It’s lighter and easier to park than a dual-wheel version, but still offers plenty of power for campers, boats, or moderate work trailers.
2024 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 2024 Ram 3500 can tow up to 37,090 pounds when properly equipped with the High-Output 6.7L Cummins Diesel. It combines huge strength with luxury features, improved stability, and trailer safety tech for easier long-distance towing.
2025 Ram 3500 Towing Capacity
The 2025 Ram 3500 tows up to 36,610 pounds with its High-Output Cummins Diesel and dual-rear-wheel setup. It continues Ram’s tradition of unmatched pulling power, smart towing tech, and smooth ride quality for both work and adventure.
FAQs
How much can a Ram 3500 with the 6.7 Cummins tow?
A Ram 3500 with the 6.7 Cummins can tow up to 36,000 pounds, depending on its configuration and axle ratio setup.
What year Ram 3500 to stay away from?
Avoid the 2013 Ram 3500, as many owners reported transmission, DEF, and electrical issues compared to newer, more reliable models.
What is the towing capacity of the Ram 2500 vs 3500 diesel?
The Ram 2500 diesel tows around 20,000 pounds, while the Ram 3500 diesel can tow up to 36,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Can a Ram 3500 pull a fifth wheel?
Yes, the Ram 3500 easily pulls fifth-wheel trailers, especially with the High-Output Cummins Diesel and factory gooseneck prep package.
Is the Ram 3500 good for heavy hauling?
Yes, the Ram 3500 is perfect for heavy hauling. Its strong frame and diesel power make towing and payload handling easy.
Is a dually harder to drive?
A dually feels wider but is not hard to drive. It offers better stability and balance when towing heavy trailers.
Which Ram 3500 is best for towing?
The High-Output 6.7L Cummins Diesel with dual rear wheels is the best Ram 3500 setup for maximum towing power.
How reliable is the Ram 3500?
The Ram 3500 is very reliable, especially with proper maintenance. Its Cummins Diesel engine is known for lasting over 300,000 miles.
How much can a Ram 3500 non-dually tow?
A non-dually Ram 3500 can tow between 21,000 and 23,000 pounds, depending on engine choice and axle configuration.
How long will a Ram 3500 Dually last?
With good maintenance, a Ram 3500 Dually can easily last 300,000 to 400,000 miles, even under tough working conditions.
Conclusion
The Ram 3500 stands as one of the most powerful and capable heavy-duty trucks on the market today. With a towing capacity ranging from 16,980 to over 36,000 pounds, it’s built for serious work and demanding jobs. Whether you’re hauling heavy trailers, towing large fifth wheels, or carrying heavy loads for business, the Ram 3500 delivers the muscle, stability, and control you need.
Its High-Output 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine, advanced towing technology, and durable frame make it a trusted choice for professionals and everyday drivers alike. If you want a truck that combines unmatched strength, reliability, and comfort, the Ram 3500 is the perfect towing partner for both work and adventure.