2002 Dodge RAM 1500 Towing Capacity & Payload (Charts)

If you’re a truck enthusiast, a potential buyer, or a current owner of this powerful pickup, this guide is designed with you in mind.

We dive deep into the core performance metrics of the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500, showcasing the impressive payload and towing capacities across different trims, engines, and cab styles.

With detailed charts derived from official resources, you’ll find critical information about Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), axle ratios, and more.

So, let’s explore the strength and versatility of the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500.

The 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 has a maximum Towing Capacity of 8,650 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,851 pounds.

2002 Dodge RAM 1500 Towing and Payload Capacity Chart

The 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 pickup truck’s payload and towing capacities vary based on several parameters including engine type, cab configuration, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), axle ratio, and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR).

Whether towing or carrying a payload, it’s critical to adhere to these capacity limits for safety and to ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

Here I’ve collected all the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 and ramtrucks.com.

Trims and Cabs

The 2002 Dodge RAM offers a diverse range of trims and cab configurations to cater to every driver’s needs. The available trims encompass the base ST, mid-level SLT, and luxury SLT Plus (Sport package optional on the SLT and SLT Plus), each providing a unique blend of features and performance.

Cab styles for the 2002 Dodge RAM include the Regular Cab and Quad Cab. Each cab style offers varying interior space and load-carrying abilities, contributing to the diversity of the lineup.

However, it’s crucial to remember that the towing and payload capacities can vary within each trim level.

The actual figures are dependent on multiple factors, such as the specific engine, drivetrain, and additional equipment installed.

Towing and Payload Capacity by Engines

The towing capacity of the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 varies depending on the type of engine, with three different engine types featured in this chart: the 3.7-liter V6, the 4.7-liter V8, and the 5.9-liter V8, all with automatic transmission.

Let’s take a look at the maximum towing capacities for each engine option:

3.7L V6 engine

The 2002 Dodge RAM 1500, equipped with a potent 3.7L V6 engine, brings considerable versatility to the table with its impressive towing and payload capacities.

In the ST Manual Regular Cab Long Box configuration, this model boasts a towing capacity of 8,500 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,851 lbs, while offering 215 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, all balanced against a curb weight of 4,700 lbs.

The ST Automatic Regular Cab Short Box variant, powered by the same engine, offers a slightly enhanced towing capacity of 8,650 lbs, along with a payload capacity of 1,850 lbs and the same horsepower, but with a marginally reduced curb weight of 4,499 lbs.

In both configurations, the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 with a 3.7L V6 engine demonstrates remarkable performance and capability, ensuring it’s well-suited for a range of hauling, towing, and everyday driving scenarios.

4.7L V8 engine

The 2002 Dodge RAM 1500, furnished with a potent 4.7L V8 engine, delivers impressive performance across a variety of configurations.

Whether it’s the SLT Manual 4WD Regular Cab Short Box, with a towing capacity of 8,400 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,537 lbs, or the ST Automatic 4WD Regular Cab Long Box configuration offering a towing capacity of 8,200 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,530 lbs, the truck consistently provides 240 horsepower at 4,800 rpm.

Configurations such as the SLT Manual Quad Cab Short Box and ST Manual 4WD Quad Cab Long Box present flexible options for different hauling needs.

Moreover, the SLT Manual Regular Cab Short Box configuration boasts the highest towing capacity of 8,650 lbs.

Across these configurations, the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 with the 4.7L V8 engine showcases a remarkable blend of strength and versatility, making it a strong contender for both everyday and heavy-duty driving scenarios.

5.9L V8 Automatic engine

The 2002 Dodge RAM 1500, equipped with a robust 5.9L V8 Automatic engine, offers an assortment of configurations tailored to diverse hauling and towing needs.

Whether in the ST 4WD Regular Cab Long Box configuration, with a towing capacity of 8,200 lbs and payload capacity of 1,530 lbs, or the ST Regular Cab Short Box configuration, with a heightened towing capacity of 8,650 lbs and payload capacity of 1,851 lbs, this model boasts an impressive 245 horsepower at 4,000 rpm.

Configurations like the ST 4WD Quad Cab Long Box and SLT 4WD Quad Cab Short Box also offer impressive capabilities, while the SLT Quad Cab Short Box and SLT Regular Cab Long Box configurations provide more payload capacity.

Across all configurations, the RAM 1500 with the 5.9L V8 Automatic engine delivers an exceptional balance of power and capacity, ensuring reliable performance in both everyday driving and more demanding hauling or towing scenarios.

2002 Dodge RAM 1500 Towing and Payload Capacity Charts

Below I’ve attached the charts that I found from the official resource and categorized them based on the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 Cab styles.

From these charts, you can find every configuration of your truck and a bunch of information regarding Towing and Payload capacity, GCWR, GVWR, Axle Ratios, Trans Type, Engines, Transmission, and Base Weight.

Towing Equipment Required:

When it comes to towing with the 2002 RAM 1500, you’ll need some additional equipment to ensure a safe and successful tow. Here are some of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need:

1. Hitch: The hitch is what connects your trailer to your vehicle. You’ll need to choose the right hitch for your trailer’s weight and size, as well as for your RAM 1500’s towing capacity.
2. Trailer Wiring: Your trailer will need to be wired to your vehicle’s electrical system, so that the brake lights, turn signals, and other necessary functions work properly.
3. Brake Controller: If your trailer has brakes, you’ll need a brake controller to activate them from your vehicle. This ensures that your trailer will stop smoothly and safely.
4. Weight Distribution Hitch: If your trailer is particularly heavy, you may need a weight distribution hitch to help distribute the weight more evenly across your vehicle and trailer.
5. Towing Mirrors: Your RAM 1500’s standard side mirrors may not be enough to provide adequate visibility when towing. Towing mirrors can be added to provide a better view of your trailer and the road behind you.
6. Sway Control: Sway control devices help to prevent your trailer from swaying back and forth while you’re towing, which can be dangerous.

Overall, it’s important to have the right equipment to ensure a safe and successful tow. Be sure to check your owner’s manual and consult with a professional if you have any questions about towing equipment.

Useful Resources

2002 Dodge RAM 1500 Brochure PDF

Conclusion

In conclusion, we’ve unraveled the impressive towing and payload capacities of the 2002 Dodge RAM 1500.

The 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 has a maximum Towing Capacity of 8,650 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,851 pounds.

However, don’t forget the significance of selecting the optimal cab configuration tailored to your needs. Always adhere to the recommended towing and loading practices to maintain safe and stable driving conditions.

So whether you’re planning to connect that sizable trailer or pack in substantial cargo, rest assured, your dependable RAM 1500 is ready to rise to the occasion!