The 2017 RAM 1500 is a powerhouse pickup truck with impressive towing and payload capacities, making it an ideal choice for anyone in need of a workhorse vehicle.
With its sturdy build and advanced features, this truck is perfect for those in the construction, landscaping, or towing industries.
However, even if you’re not a professional in these industries, the RAM 1500’s towing and payload capabilities can come in handy for everyday use.
In this article, we’ll provide you with detailed charts that break down the 2017 RAM 1500’s towing and payload capacities for each engine and configuration, giving you a better understanding of what this impressive truck can do.
The 2017 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity ranges between 4,210 – 10,620 lbs. and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,880 lbs. This can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.
2017 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity Chart
| With Engines | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 12,900 lbs. | 7,260 lbs. | 1,880 lbs. |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 14,750 lbs. | 9,210 lbs. | 1,590 lbs. |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 15,950 lbs. | 10,620 lbs. | 1,760 lbs. |
Here is the 2017 RAM 1500 Towing and Payload Capacity with different engines and their corresponding GCWR and maximum towing capacity:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: Offers a balance between power and fuel efficiency, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,260 lbs and a max payload capacity of 1,880 lbs.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Perfect for heavy loads, with a maximum towing capacity of 9,210 lbs and a max payload capacity of 1,590 lbs.
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Provides maximum power and capability, with a maximum towing capacity of 10,620 lbs and a max payload capacity of 1,760 lbs.
It’s important to note that the towing capacity of your RAM 1500 will depend on the specific configuration of your vehicle, including the engine, transmission, axle ratio, and other factors.
Be sure to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle.
It is also crucial to remember that the total weight of the vehicle and the trailer should not surpass the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the RAM 1500.
Here I’ve collected all the 2017 RAM 1500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2017 RAM 1500 Brochure and ramtrucks.com.
Trims
The 2017 RAM 1500 comes in ten different trim levels to suit different needs and preferences: Tradesman, EcoDiesel HFE, Express, Big Horn, Sport, Night, Rebel, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited.
The Tradesman trim is the most basic and affordable option, while the EcoDiesel HFE trim is designed for those who want to maximize fuel efficiency.
The Express trim adds some extra style to the RAM 1500, while the Big Horn trim is all about performance and capability.
The Sport and Night trims are perfect for those who want a more aggressive-looking truck, while the Rebel trim is designed specifically for off-road adventures.
The Laramie and Laramie Longhorn trims are all about luxury and comfort, while the Limited trim is the top-of-the-line option with all the bells and whistles.
Towing Capacity by Engine
The 2017 RAM 1500 comes with three different engine options, each with its own unique towing capacity. Each engine is available with different axle ratios, which affect the truck’s towing capacity.
Let’s take a closer look at each engine and what they have to offer in terms of the 2017 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity.
| Engines | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.21 | 9,850 lbs | 4,970 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.55 | 12,200 lbs | 7,260 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.55 | 12,400 lbs | 7,270 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.55 | 12,900 lbs | 7,600 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.55 | 13,750 lbs | 8,240 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 13,750 lbs | 8,240 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 14,550 lbs | 8,340 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 14,750 lbs | 9,210 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 10,250 lbs | 5,030 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.21 | 13,800 lbs | 8,610 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 14,350 lbs | 9,160 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 15,950 lbs | 10,620 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6 engine
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine in the 2017 RAM 1500 has a towing capacity that varies depending on the axle ratio.
With a 3.21 axle ratio, the maximum towing capacity is 4,970 pounds, while with a 3.55 axle ratio, it can tow up to 7,260 pounds, 7,270 pounds, or even 7,600 pounds.
The Pentastar V6 is a reliable engine that provides decent power and fuel efficiency. However, if you’re planning to tow frequently or carry heavy loads, you may want to consider upgrading to a different engine.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine
The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine in the 2017 RAM 1500 has a towing capacity that ranges from 8,240 pounds to 9,210 pounds depending on the axle ratio.
This engine is ideal for those who want a balance of power and fuel efficiency. The EcoDiesel V6 is known for its impressive torque and fuel economy, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.
5.7L HEMI V8 engine
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine in the 2017 RAM 1500 is the most powerful engine option and has a towing capacity that ranges from 5,030 pounds to 10,620 pounds depending on the axle ratio.
With a 3.92 axle ratio, the HEMI V8 can tow up to 15,950 pounds, making it the ideal engine for those who need to tow heavy loads regularly.
However, the HEMI V8 engine is also the least fuel-efficient option, so if you’re looking for a more economical engine, you may want to consider the EcoDiesel V6 or the Pentastar V6.
Overall, the 2017 RAM 1500 offers a range of engine options that can cater to different towing needs. Whether you prioritize power, fuel efficiency, or a balance of both, there’s an engine for you. When selecting an engine, it’s important to consider the frequency and weight of the loads you’ll be towing to ensure that you’re getting the most suitable engine for your needs.
Towing Capacity by Cabs
When it comes to towing capacity, the 2017 RAM 1500 offers different options depending on the cab size and engine.
Let’s take a closer look at each engine’s towing capacity for the various cab sizes.
| Engine | Regular Cab 6′ 4″ Box | Regular Cab 8′ Box | Quad Cab 6′ 4″ Box | Crew Cab 5′ 7″ Box | Crew Cab 6′ 4″ Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 7,260 lbs | 7,270 lbs | 7,600 lbs | 7,510 lbs | – |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | – | 9,210 lbs | 8,960 lbs | 8,870 lbs | 8,340 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 9,160 lbs | 10,620 lbs | 10,340 lbs | 10,220 lbs | 10,200 lbs |
Regular Cab with a 6’4″ box
The Regular Cab with a 6’4″ box has a maximum towing capacity of 7,260 lbs for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, and 9,160 lbs for the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine.
Regular Cab with an 8′ box
The Regular Cab with an 8′ box has a towing capacity of 7,270 lbs for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, 10,620 lbs for the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, and 9,210 lbs with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6.
Quad Cab with a 6’4″ box
The Quad Cab with a 6’4″ box can tow up to 7,600 lbs with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and 10,340 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, and 8,870 lbs with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine.
Crew Cab with a 5’7″ box
The Crew Cab with a 5’7″ box has a towing capacity of 7,510 lbs with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, 10,220 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, and 8,960 lbs with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine.
Crew Cab with a 6’4″ box
The Crew Cab with a 6’4″ box has a towing capacity of 10,200 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine and 8,340 lbs with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine.
Payload Capacity
The 2017 RAM 1500 offers three different engine options that provide varying payload capacities.
Let’s take a closer look at each engine’s payload capacity for the various configurations.
| Engines | GVWR | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,025 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,300 lbs | 1,560 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,600 lbs | 1,880 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,800 lbs | 1,880 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 6,600 lbs | 1,510 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 6,945 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 6,950 lbs | 1,590 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 6,200 lbs | 1,350 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 6,350 lbs | 1,590 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 6,600 lbs | 1,690 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 6,900 lbs | 1,760 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine in the 2017 RAM 1500 has a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) that ranges from 6,025 lbs to 6,800 lbs and a max payload capacity that ranges from 1,500 lbs to 1,880 lbs depending on the configuration. This engine is a good choice for those who need a truck for light to moderate workloads.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine in the 2017 RAM 1500 has a higher GVWR of 6,600 lbs to 6,950 lbs and a max payload capacity that ranges from 1,500 lbs to 1,590 lbs. This engine is ideal for those who need a truck that can handle heavier workloads while still being fuel-efficient.
5.7L HEMI V8
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine in the 2017 RAM 1500 has a GVWR that ranges from 6,200 lbs to 6,900 lbs and a max payload capacity that ranges from 1,350 lbs to 1,760 lbs depending on the configuration. This engine is the best choice for those who need a truck for heavy-duty workloads.
What you can tow with the 2017 RAM 1500?
Here are some trailers you can tow with this powerful pickup truck:
- Small and Medium-Sized Travel Trailers: With a maximum towing capacity of 10,620 lbs, the 2017 RAM 1500 can easily tow small to medium-sized travel trailers. These trailers typically range in weight from 3,000 to 8,000 lbs, making them a great fit for the RAM 1500.
- Boats: The 2017 RAM 1500’s towing capacity also makes it a great choice for towing boats. Whether you have a fishing boat, a pontoon boat, or a speed boat, the RAM 1500 can handle the job with ease.
- Horse Trailers: If you’re a horse owner, the RAM 1500’s towing capacity makes it a good option for towing horse trailers. The maximum payload capacity of 1,880 lbs also means you can transport your horses and their gear with ease.
- Utility Trailers: The RAM 1500’s towing and payload capacities make it a great option for towing utility trailers. You can easily transport heavy loads from one place to another with this powerful pickup truck.
Overall, the 2017 RAM 1500 is a versatile pickup truck that can handle a wide range of towing needs. With its maximum towing capacity of 10,620 lbs and maximum payload capacity of 1,880 lbs, you can tow various trailers and haul heavy loads without breaking a sweat.
Towing Equipment required:
Here are some essential towing equipment required for towing trailers and other things with the 2017 RAM 1500:
- Hitch Receiver: A hitch receiver is an essential piece of equipment required for towing. It’s a metal bar that’s bolted to the frame of the truck, which connects to the trailer hitch.
- Trailer Hitch: A trailer hitch is a device attached to the chassis of a vehicle that enables it to tow a trailer.
- Trailer Wiring: Trailer wiring is an electrical connection that connects the vehicle’s electrical system to the trailer’s lighting system. This connection is essential for towing, as it allows the driver to control the trailer’s lights and turn signals.
- Brake Controller: A brake controller is a device that activates the trailer’s brakes when the driver applies the brakes in the towing vehicle. It’s important for towing heavy loads to ensure safe stopping.
- Mirrors: Mirrors are another essential piece of equipment required for towing. Towing mirrors are larger than standard mirrors and are designed to provide the driver with a better view of the trailer.
- Weight Distribution Hitch: A weight distribution hitch is an additional piece of equipment that helps distribute the weight of the trailer evenly across the towing vehicle and trailer axles. It helps to improve stability and handling while towing.
- Sway Control: Sway control is a device that helps reduce trailer sway, which is caused by wind, uneven roads, or passing vehicles. It helps to improve the stability of the towing vehicle and trailer.
These are some of the essential towing equipment required for safe and efficient towing. It’s important to ensure that all the equipment is in good condition and properly installed before towing to avoid accidents or damage to the towing vehicle and trailer.
Useful Resources
Conclusion
To sum it up, the 2017 RAM 1500 offers impressive towing and payload capacities, making it a reliable and powerful option for those in need of a truck for work or play.
With a range of towing capacity options between 4,210 – 10,620 lbs. and a maximum payload capacity of 1,880 lbs., the RAM 1500 is a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the towing and payload capacities can vary based on different factors, such as the vehicle’s weight, payload, and other factors. Overall, the 2017 RAM 1500 is a solid choice for those seeking a capable and dependable pickup truck.
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