In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the towing capabilities of the 2021 RAM 1500 and provide you with useful charts to help you determine which configuration is right for your needs.
Whether you need to tow a small trailer or a heavy load, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
So, let’s dive in and explore the towing capacity of the 2021 RAM 1500!
The 2021 RAM 1500 has a maximum Towing Capacity ranging between 6,300 – 12,750 lbs. and a maximum payload capacity of 2,300 lbs. This can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.
2021 RAM 1500 Towing and Payload Capacity Chart
| Engines | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 12,900 lbs | 7,750 lbs | 2,300 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 18,200 lbs | 12,560 lbs | 2,060 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 17,000 lbs | 11,650 lbs | 1,940 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 18,350 lbs | 12,750 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| 6.2L Supercharge HEMI V8 | 15,160 lbs | 8,220 lbs | 1,350 lbs |
Here is the 2021 RAM 1500 Towing Capacity with different engines and their corresponding GCWR and maximum towing capacity:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque: GCWR of 12,900 lbs and max towing capacity of 7,750 lbs.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: GCWR of 18,200 lbs and max towing capacity of 12,560 lbs.
- 5.7L HEMI V8: GCWR of 17,000 lbs and max towing capacity of 11,650 lbs.
- 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque: GCWR of 18,350 lbs and max towing capacity of 12,750 lbs.
- 6.2L Supercharge HEMI V8: GCWR of 15,160 lbs and max towing capacity of 8,220 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.
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 2021 RAM 1500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2021 RAM 1500 Brochure and ramtrucks.com.
Be sure to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle.
Towing Capacity by Trims
Let’s take a closer look at the various trims available for the 2021 RAM 1500 and what each one offers.
| Trim | Maximum Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Tradesman | Up to 12,750 pounds |
| RAM 1500 HFE | Up to 11,610 pounds |
| Big Horn | 7,730-12,750 pounds |
| Laramie | Up to 11,610 pounds |
| Rebel | Up to 11,460 pounds |
| Limited Longhorn | Up to 12,560 pounds |
| Limited | Up to 12,560 pounds |
| Long Star | 7,730-12,750 pounds |
| TRX | Up to 8,100 pounds |
Using VIN Decoder
If you already own a 2021 RAM 1500 truck and want to know the towing capacity, payload capacity, trim, curb weight, axle ratio code, and other information about your truck, you can use a VIN decoder.
A VIN decoder is an online tool that allows you to decode the unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle and provides you with detailed information about its specifications and history.
One of the popular VIN decoders is the Dodge VIN Decoder. It’s free and easy to use. Just type your vehicle VIN and get most of the information about your specific model.
Towing Capacity by Engine
The 2021 RAM 1500 comes with five engine options, each offering different levels of towing capacity.
Let’s take a closer look at each of the eninges and their different configurations.
| Engines | Axle Ratio | GCWR | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 3.21 | 11,900 lbs | 6,530 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 3.55 | 12,900 lbs | 7,750 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.21 | 13,900 lbs | 8,380 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 15,600 lbs | 10,080 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 3.92 | 18,200 lbs | 12,560 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.21 | 13,900 lbs | 8,550 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 3.92 | 17,000 lbs | 11,650 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 3.21 | 13,900 lbs | 8,460 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 3.92 | 17,000 lbs | 11,560 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 3.92 | 18,350 lbs | 12,750 lbs |
| 6.2L Supercharge HEMI V8 | 3.55 | 15,160 lbs | 8,220 lbs |
3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque, with an axle ratio of 3.21, has a GCWR of 11,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 6,530 lbs.
Meanwhile, with an axle ratio of 3.55, the same engine has a GCWR of 12,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 7,750 lbs.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine
The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, with an axle ratio of 3.21, has a GCWR of 13,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 8,380 lbs.
With an axle ratio of 3.92, it can tow up to 15,600 lbs, and with the same ratio and a maximum GCWR of 18,200 lbs, it can tow up to 12,560 lbs.
5.7L HEMI V8 engine
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, with an axle ratio of 3.21, has a GCWR of 13,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 8,550 lbs. With an axle ratio of 3.92, it can tow up to 17,000 lbs.
5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque engine
The 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque engine, with an axle ratio of 3.21, has a GCWR of 13,900 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 8,460 lbs.
With an axle ratio of 3.92, it can tow up to 17,000 lbs, while with the same ratio and a maximum GCWR of 18,350 lbs, it can tow up to 12,750 lbs.
5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque engine
Finally, the 6.2L Supercharge HEMI V8 engine, with an axle ratio of 3.55, has a GCWR of 15,160 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 8,220 lbs.
In my opinion, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine is the best option for those who plan to do a lot of towing.
It offers the highest maximum towing capacity of up to 12,560 lbs with a 3.92 axle ratio, making it ideal for hauling heavy loads.
Plus, the diesel engine provides better fuel efficiency than gas engines, which can save money on fuel costs in the long run.
However, for those who don’t plan on doing a lot of towing, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine is a solid choice with its decent towing capacity and improved fuel efficiency with the eTorque system.
Towing Capacity Charts
The 2021 RAM 1500 offers impressive towing capabilities across all cab configurations. The towing capacity varies depending on the cab and engine combination you choose.
Overall the maximum Towing Capacities offered by each 2021 RAM 1500 cab style are given in the below table.
| Engine | Quad Cab 6′ 4″ Box | Crew Cab 5′ 7″ Box | Crew Cab 6′ 4″ Box |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 11,650 lbs | 11,450 lbs | 11,500 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 12,750 lbs | 11,370 lbs | 11,410 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 12,560 lbs | 9,930 lbs | 9,950 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 7,750 lbs | 7,530 lbs | 7,600 lbs |
Payload Capacity
The 2021 RAM 1500 is a great pickup truck that is designed to handle heavy payloads with ease.
| Engines | GVWR | Max. Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 7,100 lbs | 2,300 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 7,200 lbs | 2,060 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 7,100 lbs | 1,940 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 7,100 lbs | 1,850 lbs |
| 6.2L Supercharge HEMI V8 | 7,800 lbs | 1,350 lbs |
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque engine offers a maximum payload capacity of 2,300 pounds, making it a reliable choice for those who need to transport equipment or materials.
The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine offers a maximum payload capacity of 2,060 pounds, making it a great choice for those who need to tow heavy loads.
The 5.7L HEMI V8 and 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque engines have a maximum payload capacity of 1,940 pounds and 1,850 pounds respectively, making them great options for those who need a balance of power and payload capacity.
The 6.2L Supercharge HEMI V8 engine offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,350 pounds, making it a great choice for those who need a lot of power and towing capacity but don’t necessarily need to carry a lot of weight in the bed of the truck.
Payload Capacity by Cabs
When it comes to payload capacity, the truck’s capability varies depending on the cab size and engine choice.
| Engine | Quad Cab 6′ 4″ Box | Crew Cab 5′ 7″ Box | Crew Cab 6′ 4″ Box |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 1,940 lbs | 1,860 lbs | 1,820 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 eTorque | 1,860 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 1,710 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 2,060 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 1,740 lbs |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 eTorque | 2,300 lbs | 2,020 lbs | 1,990 lbs |
Towing Equipment required:
To tow with a 2021 RAM 1500, you will need the following towing equipment:
- Hitch Receiver: The hitch receiver is mounted to the frame of the truck and provides a secure connection point for the trailer.
- Trailer Wiring Harness: A wiring harness is needed to connect the trailer’s lighting system to the truck’s electrical system.
- Trailer Brake Controller: If your trailer has electric brakes, a brake controller is required to operate them. This device is installed inside the cab of the truck and sends signals to the trailer’s braking system.
- Weight Distribution Hitch: A weight distribution hitch helps distribute the weight of the trailer evenly across the truck’s frame and suspension, improving handling and stability.
- Sway Control: Sway control devices can help prevent trailer sway, which can be dangerous and difficult to control. These devices can be built into the weight distribution hitch or installed separately.
- Tow Mirrors: Extended mirrors are necessary to ensure that you have a clear view of your trailer while towing. RAM 1500 offers available Trailer Tow Mirrors.
It’s essential to make sure that all your towing equipment is rated for the weight of your trailer and properly installed before towing.
Useful Resources
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2021 RAM 1500 offers a wide range of towing capacity options, ranging from 6,300 – 12,750 lbs, depending on factors such as engine size, transmission, axle ratio, and other configuration factors.
The maximum towing capacity of the RAM 1500 depends on the specific model and trim you choose.
However, it’s essential to ensure that the total weight of your vehicle and the trailer does not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for the RAM 1500.
If you’re not sure about your vehicle’s towing capacity, always consult the owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic. Overall, the RAM 1500 is an excellent option for those looking for a powerful and capable vehicle for their towing needs.
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