Welcome to our article on the 2018 RAM 1500 towing capacity and payload capacity (with Charts)!
In this article, we’ll explore the specifics of the 2018 RAM 1500’s towing capacity, including the different configurations and factors that can impact it.
We’ll also provide some helpful charts to make it easier for you to compare and choose the best option for your needs.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what the RAM 1500 is capable of when it comes to towing, and be better equipped to make an informed purchasing decision. So, let’s get started and find out just how much this truck can haul!
The 2018 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity ranges between 4,260 – 10,620 lbs. and 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.
2018 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity Chart
| Engines | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 12,900 lbs. | 7,600 lbs. | 1,880 lbs. |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 14,750 lbs. | 9,210 lbs. | 1,600 lbs. |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 15,950 lbs. | 10,620 lbs. | 1,760 lbs. |
Here is the 2018 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 7,600 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 1,600 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 2018 RAM 1500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2018 RAM 1500 Brochure and ramtrucks.com.
Trims
The 2018 RAM 1500 comes in ten different trim levels to suit different needs and preferences: Tradesman, Express, Big Horn, Harvest, Sport, Night, Rebel, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited.
The entry-level Tradesman trim comes with basic features and a no-nonsense approach, while the Express adds a more aggressive look.
The Big Horn offers additional features, while the Harvest is tailored for farming and agricultural use.
The Sport and Night trims add a touch of sportiness to the vehicle, while the off-road Rebel trim is designed to tackle tough terrain.
The luxurious Laramie and Laramie Longhorn trims offer upscale features and styling, and the range-topping Limited trim adds even more luxury and convenience features.
Towing Capacity by Engine
The 2018 RAM 1500 comes with three different engine options, each with its own unique towing capacity.
Let’s take a closer look at each engine and what they have to offer in terms of 2018 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity.
| Engines | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.21 | 9,850 lbs | 4,940 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.55 | 12,200 lbs | 7,240 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.55 | 12,400 lbs | 7,260 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 | 8,410 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 14,750 lbs | 9,210 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 10,250 lbs | 5,020 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.21 | 13,800 lbs | 8,660 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 14,350 lbs | 9,210 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 15,950 lbs | 10,620 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6 engine
The 2018 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine comes with four different axle ratios, each offering different levels of towing capacity. The highest towing capacity for this engine is 7,600 lbs, which is a decent amount for a V6 engine.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine
Next up is the 2018 RAM 1500’s 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, which is perfect for those who prioritize fuel efficiency. This engine also comes with three different axle ratios when equipped with 2018 RAM 1500 and has a maximum towing capacity of 9,210 lbs.
That’s pretty impressive for a V6 engine and it can handle most towing needs.
5.7L HEMI V8 engine
Finally, we have the 2018 RAM 1500’s 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. This engine is a powerhouse and comes with three different axle ratios.
The highest towing capacity for this engine when equipped with 2018 RAM 1500 is a whopping 10,620 lbs, which is the best towing capacity of all three engines. If you’re looking to haul heavy loads, the HEMI V8 engine is the way to go.
In my findings, the 2018 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine is the clear winner when it comes to towing capacity. It offers the highest towing capacity out of all the engines and is the most reliable engine for heavy-duty tasks.
However, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine is a great option for those who want a balance of fuel efficiency and towing capacity.
Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and priorities when it comes to choosing the right engine for your 2018 RAM 1500.
Towing Capacity by Cabs
When it comes to towing capacity, the 2018 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 | 7,240 lbs | 7,260 lbs | 7,600 lbs | 7,500 lbs | – |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | – | 9,210 lbs | 8,990 lbs | 8,860 lbs | 8,410 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 9,210 lbs | 10,620 lbs | 10,340 lbs | 10,240 lbs | 10,190 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6
The 2018 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine can tow up to 7,240 lbs for the Regular Cab 6′ 4″ box and up to 7,260 lbs for the Regular Cab 8′ box.
The Quad Cab 6′ 4″ box can tow up to 7,600 lbs, while the Crew Cab 5′ 7″ box can tow up to 7,500 lbs. Unfortunately, the Crew Cab 6′ 4″ box is not available for this engine.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
The 2018 RAM 1500 with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine has a higher towing capacity for the Regular Cab 8′ box with a whopping 9,210 lbs.
The Quad Cab 6′ 4″ box can tow up to 8,990 lbs, while the Crew Cab 5′ 7″ box can tow up to 8,860 lbs. The Crew Cab 6′ 4″ box has a slightly lower towing capacity of 8,410 lbs.
5.7L HEMI V8
Finally, the 2018 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine has the highest towing capacity of the three engines.
The Regular Cab 6′ 4″ box can tow up to 9,210 lbs, while the Regular Cab 8′ box can tow up to 10,620 lbs.
The Quad Cab 6′ 4″ box has a towing capacity of 10,340 lbs, while the Crew Cab 5′ 7″ box can tow up to 10,240 lbs. The Crew Cab 6′ 4″ box has a towing capacity of 10,190 lbs.
Payload Capacity
Payload Capacity refers to the maximum weight that the truck can carry in its bed.
As mentioned earlier, the 2018 RAM 1500 comes with three engine options: the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6, and the 5.7L HEMI V8. Each engine option has a different payload capacity, depending on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
| Engines | GVWR | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,025 lbs | 1,480 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,300 lbs | 1,550 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,600 lbs | 1,870 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 6,800 lbs | 1,880 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 6,600 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 6,945 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 6,950 lbs | 1,600 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 | 1,660 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 6,900 lbs | 1,760 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6
The 2018 RAM 1500 with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has a maximum payload capacity of 1,480 to 1,880 pounds, depending on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the truck.
This engine is great for everyday use and light-duty hauling, such as moving small items or furniture.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
The 2018 RAM 1500 with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine has a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 to 1,600 pounds, depending on the GVWR of the truck.
This engine is designed for heavy-duty hauling, making it an excellent choice for those who need to transport larger items such as construction materials or towing a boat.
5.7L HEMI V8
The 2018 RAM 1500 with a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine has a maximum payload capacity of 1,350 to 1,760 pounds, depending on the GVWR of the truck.
This engine provides a balance of power and efficiency, making it a good choice for those who need a truck for both everyday use and heavier hauling.
What you can tow with the 2018 RAM 1500?
With a maximum towing capacity of 10,620 lbs. and a maximum payload capacity of 1,880 lbs., you can haul a wide range of items. Here are some things you can tow with the 2018 RAM 1500:
- Travel trailers: With a maximum towing capacity of 10,620 lbs., the 2018 RAM 1500 can easily tow many different travel trailers, including those that are 25 feet or longer.
- Horse trailers: If you need to transport horses, the 2018 RAM 1500 is up to the task. You can safely tow a horse trailer that weighs up to 6,000 lbs. with this truck.
- Boat trailers: Whether you have a small fishing boat or a large cabin cruiser, the 2018 RAM 1500 can tow it. The maximum towing capacity of this truck is more than enough to handle most boat trailers.
- Utility trailers: If you need to haul equipment, tools, or other heavy items, a utility trailer is the way to go. The 2018 RAM 1500 can tow a utility trailer that weighs up to 6,000 lbs.
- Cargo trailers: If you’re moving, a cargo trailer is a must-have. The 2018 RAM 1500 can easily tow a cargo trailer that’s up to 7 feet wide and 16 feet long.
With the 2018 RAM 1500, you’ll be able to tow just about anything you need, making it a reliable and versatile vehicle for all your towing needs.
Towing Equipment required:
Here are some essential towing equipment required for towing trailers and other things with the 2018 RAM 1500:
- Hitch receiver: A hitch receiver is a necessary piece of equipment that attaches to the vehicle’s frame and allows for the connection of a trailer hitch.
- Trailer Hitch: A trailer hitch is an essential piece of equipment that connects the trailer to the hitch receiver. It comes in different sizes and weight capacities to match the trailer’s weight and towing capacity of your RAM 1500.
- Weight Distribution System: A weight distribution system helps distribute the weight of the trailer evenly across the vehicle and prevents excessive stress on the rear axle.
- Brake Controller: A brake controller is necessary for trailers that have electric brakes. It sends signals to the trailer’s brakes when you apply the brakes on the RAM 1500.
- Towing Mirrors: Towing mirrors are larger than the vehicle’s standard mirrors and provide a wider and clearer view of the road behind the trailer.
- Trailer Wiring Harness: A trailer wiring harness connects the electrical system of the RAM 1500 to the trailer and allows the trailer’s lights to function correctly.
- Trailer Jack and Wheel Chocks: A trailer jack is essential for hitching and unhitching the trailer, while wheel chocks keep the trailer from rolling when parked.
Having this essential towing equipment will ensure a safe and hassle-free towing experience with your 2018 RAM 1500.
Useful Resources
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2018 RAM 1500 offers a range of towing and payload capacities depending on the engine, trim, and other factors.
The towing capacity ranges from 4,260 – 10,620 lbs, with the maximum payload capacity being 1,880 lbs. It’s important to note that the towing capacity of your RAM 1500 will depend on the specific configuration of your vehicle.
The 2018 RAM 1500 comes with three different engine options, each with its unique towing capacity.
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,600 lbs, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine offers a maximum towing capacity of 9,210 lbs, and the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine provides a maximum towing capacity of 10,620 lbs.
It’s crucial to remember not to exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the RAM 1500, and to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle.
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