Exploring the hauling capabilities of a powerful workhorse like the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 opens up a world of possibilities.
For owners of this robust pick-up, understanding the true extent of its towing and payload capacities can significantly enhance its utility, safety, and efficiency.
Through this comprehensive guide, complete with detailed charts and specs, we aim to provide all the critical information pertaining to the towing and payload capacities of the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500.
So, let’s explore the strength and versatility of the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500.
The 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 has a towing capacity between 10,050 to 16,350 pounds, and it boasts a maximum payload capacity of 5,320 pounds.
However, it’s crucial to note that these figures can vary depending on several factors.
Aspects such as the truck’s curb weight, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), specific trim level, and other vehicle configurations can all influence the ultimate towing and payload capacities.
2006 Dodge RAM 3500 Towing and Payload Capacity Chart
| Engine | GVWR | Max. Payload Capacity | Max. Towing Capacity | Base Curb Weight | GCWR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L Hemi V8 | 11,500 lbs | 5,180 lbs | 10,950 lbs | 6,795 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel | 12,200 lbs | 5,320 lbs | 16,350 lbs | 7,814 lbs | 23,000 lbs |
To help you fully understand the true hauling and towing potential of the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500, we’ve compiled a comprehensive chart in this guide.
These charts provide an overview of the maximum payload and towing capacities for each available engine option, along with other important factors such as Base Curb Weight and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating).
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 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 Brochure and ramtrucks.com.
Table of Contents
Trims and Cabs
The 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 presents a versatile array of trims and cab configurations, designed to meet the requirements of every driver. Here’s a detailed exploration:
Trims:
- ST: The base trim offering fundamental features for utility and comfort.
- SLT: A step up from the ST, balancing additional amenities with value.
- Laramie: The high-end trim with upscale features and finishes for an exceptional driving experience.
Cab Styles:
- Regular Cab: Prioritizes maximum cargo space and towing capacity, with a compact interior.
- Quad Cab: Offers additional seating space and larger rear doors, suitable for passenger transport and substantial cargo needs.
- Mega Cab: Provides unrivaled interior comfort and space, perfect for long road trips or larger families.
However, it’s crucial to remember that the towing and payload capacities can vary within each trim level.
Towing Capacity by Engines
The 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 features a dynamic range of engines, each contributing significantly to the truck’s towing capacity.
| Engine | Max. Towing Capacity | Base Curb Weight | GCWR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L Hemi V8 | 10,950 lbs | 6,795 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel | 16,350 lbs | 7,814 lbs | 23,000 lbs |
Let’s take a look at the maximum towing capacities for each engine option:
5.7L Hemi V8 Towing Capacity
The 5.7L Hemi V8 engine of the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 is a testament to the truck’s incredible towing prowess.
This powerhouse, featuring a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 11,500 lbs, ensures a formidable maximum towing capacity of 10,950 lbs.
With a Base Curb Weight of 6,795 lbs, the truck has a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 17,000 lbs, supporting its impressive towing potential.
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Towing Capacity
The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine takes the towing capacity a notch higher.
This engine variant, with a GVWR of 12,200 lbs and a Base Curb Weight of 7,814 lbs, boasts a maximum towing capacity of 16,350 lbs.
Furthermore, it reaches a GCWR of 23,000 lbs, manifesting the turbo diesel’s exceptional power and torque.
Payload Capacity by Engines
Each engine in the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 lineup contributes significantly to the truck’s payload capacity.
| Engine | GVWR | Max. Payload Capacity | Base Curb Weight | GCWR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L Hemi V8 | 11,500 lbs | 5,180 lbs | 6,795 lbs | 17,000 lbs |
| 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel | 12,200 lbs | 5,320 lbs | 7,814 lbs | 23,000 lbs |
5.7L Hemi V8 Payload Capacity
The 5.7L Hemi V8 engine provides a robust payload capacity, ideal for hauling heavy loads. This engine variant supports a maximum payload capacity of 5,180 lbs, showcasing the truck’s impressive load-bearing capabilities.
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Payload Capacity
The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine variant steps up the payload capacity. With this engine, the truck can handle a maximum payload of 5,320 lbs, further demonstrating the RAM 3500’s hauling prowess.
2006 Dodge RAM 3500 Towing and Payload Capacity Charts
Below I’ve attached the charts that I found from the official resource and categorized them based on the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 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 Curb Weight.
Regular Cab:
Quad Cab:
Mega Cab:
5th Wheel/Gooseneck Towing Capacity
When it comes to 5th Wheel and Gooseneck towing, the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 continues to impress. Such specialized towing methods call for high-capacity trucks, and this model certainly fits the bill.
With the 5.7L Hemi V8 engine, the truck has a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of 17,000 lbs., allowing for a substantial towing capacity of 10,950 lbs.
This strength means you can hitch up average 5th wheel or gooseneck trailers with confidence, knowing your RAM 3500 can handle the job.
But if you want to maximize your towing power, the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel variant proves to be the optimal choice. With a whopping GCWR of 23,000 lbs. and a maximum towing capacity of 16,350 lbs., you can tow even larger trailers.
However, it’s crucial to remember that these are estimated figures.
Remember, proper trailer hookup and weight distribution are crucial to ensure safe and efficient towing. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for safe towing practices.
Whether you’re towing a 5th wheel RV for a holiday or a gooseneck trailer for work purposes, the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500’s towing capacities stand ready to deliver.
Useful Resources
2006 Dodge RAM 3500 Brochure PDF
Conclusion
To summarize, the 2006 Dodge RAM 3500 showcases formidable towing and payload capacities, making it a reliable companion for both demanding work and adventurous leisure pursuits.
With a towing capacity stretching between 10,050 and 16,350 pounds, coupled with a sturdy max payload capacity of 5,320 pounds, this truck is built to handle hefty tasks with ease.
However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that these figures can be influenced by various factors such as GVWR, curb weight, and specific engine types.
Whether you have the 5.7L Hemi V8 or the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel under the hood, each engine offers a unique combination of power and efficiency, designed to maximize your truck’s performance.
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