2023 RAM 2500 Towing Capacity & Payload (with Charts)

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 2023 RAM 2500’s towing capacity and break it down by engine type, transmission type, and drivetrain type to help you choose the best configuration for your needs.

We’ll also provide helpful charts and tools to make it easy to compare different options and find the right truck for your towing needs.

Now, what’s the towing capacity of the 2023 RAM 2500?

The 2023 RAM 2500 Towing Capacity ranges between 14,460 – 20,000 pounds and the maximum Payload Capacity ranges between 3,140 – 4,000 pounds. This can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s Curb Weight, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Payload, and other factors.

2023 RAM 2500 Towing Capacity Chart

The RAM 2500 comes with two engine options to choose from.

The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine boasts 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. This engine has a maximum towing capacity of 17,730 pounds and a payload capacity of 4,000 pounds.

For even more power, the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine delivers 370 horsepower and a whopping 850 lb-ft of torque.

This engine has a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 3,140 pounds.

Here I’ve collected all the 2023 RAM 2500 towing and payload capacity information from the official RAM resources including the 2023 RAM 2500 Brochure.

Be sure to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the maximum towing capacity for your specific vehicle.

Trims

The 2023 RAM 2500 is available in a range of trims, each with its own unique features and capabilities.

The Tradesman, Lone Star, Big Horn, and Laramie trims are all powered by either a 6.4L V8 gas engine or a 6.7L turbo diesel engine and come with an 8-speed automatic transmission. They are available in either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations.

The Power Wagon and Power Wagon Rebel trims are both equipped with a 6.4L V8 gas engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, but come standard with four-wheel drive.

These trims are designed for off-road enthusiasts and feature a number of rugged, off-road-focused features.

The Longhorn and Limited trims are the most luxurious options and are available with a range of engine options, including the 6.4L V8 gas engine, the 6.7L turbo inline-6 gas engine, and the 6.7L turbo diesel engine.

They are equipped with either a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission and are available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.

The Longhorn and Limited trims are both packed with features, including premium interiors, advanced technology, and advanced safety features.

Towing Capacity by Cabs

The 2023 RAM 2500 offers impressive towing capacity across its various cab options.

The regular cab, which comes with an 8-foot box, can tow up to 19,980 lbs. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need a workhorse of a truck for heavy-duty jobs.

For those who prioritize passenger space as well as towing capacity, the crew cab is available in two box sizes: 6 feet 4 inches or 8 feet.

With the 6-foot-4 box, the crew cab can tow up to 20,000 lbs., making it one of the most capable trucks in its class.

And with the 8-foot box, the crew cab can still tow an impressive 19,980 lbs.

The mega cab, which offers an extended cabin for even more passenger space, comes with a 6-foot-4 box and can tow up to 16,660 lbs. While this towing capacity is slightly lower than other cab options, the added passenger space makes it a great choice for those who prioritize comfort and versatility.

Towing Capacity by Engines

When it comes to towing heavy loads, the 2023 RAM 2500 is a formidable workhorse. This truck boasts two powerful engine options, each capable of handling impressive towing capacities.

6.4L HEMI V8 engine

The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission can tow between 10,570 and 17,730 pounds, depending on the configuration.

This engine delivers exceptional power and torque, making it an excellent choice for those who require a reliable and robust truck for heavy-duty work.

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine

If you need even more towing capacity, the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission is the way to go.

This engine can tow between 15,570 and 20,000 pounds, depending on the trim and configuration.

The Cummins Turbo Diesel is known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice for those who need to tow heavy loads regularly.

Regardless of which engine option you choose, the 2023 RAM 2500 is designed to handle the toughest jobs with ease.

Its towing capacity is impressive, making it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and powerful truck to get the job done.

So whether you’re hauling construction materials to the job site or towing your boat to the lake, the RAM 2500 has got you covered.

Payload Capacity by Engines

The 2023 RAM 2500 is a powerful workhorse designed to handle your toughest jobs. When it comes to payload capacity, this truck doesn’t disappoint.

Depending on the configuration, the RAM 2500 can carry up to a maximum of 4,000 pounds. That’s enough to transport heavy equipment, tools, and materials to and from the job site with ease.

6.4L HEMI V8 engine

The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine with 8-speed automatic transmission boasts a maximum payload capacity of 1,610 – 4,000 lbs, depending on the configuration.

This powerful engine is perfect for those who need to haul heavy cargo without sacrificing performance.

With this engine, you can expect the 2023 RAM 2500 to handle the toughest jobs with ease.

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine

For those who need even more payload capacity, the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine with 6-speed automatic transmission is the way to go.

This engine offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,930 – 3,140 lbs, depending on the configuration.

Not only does it provide plenty of power to haul heavy loads, but it also offers better fuel efficiency compared to gasoline engines.

Whether you’re towing a trailer or hauling heavy equipment, this engine is sure to get the job done.

Using VIN Decoder

If you already own a 2023 RAM 2500 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.

Important Notes

Payload and Trailer Weight Information

1. Payload and Max Trailer Weights are estimated values.
2. All values are shown in pounds unless otherwise stated.
3. Payload and Max Trailer Weight values are rounded to the nearest 10lb.
4. Payload = GVWR – Base Weight.
5. Payload and Trailer Weight Ratings are mutually exclusive.
6. GAWRs, GVWRs and GCWRs should never be exceeded.
7. Trailer Weight Rating and Tow Vehicle Trailering Weight are calculated as specified in SAE J2807.

Weight Factors for Trailering

1. Passenger Weight = 300 lb.
2. Options Weight = 100 lb.
3. Trailering Equipment Weight: 75 lb for a conventional hitch, 70 lb for a gooseneck, and 250 lb for the 5th-wheel.
4. Tongue weight: 10 percent of the gross trailer weight for a conventional hitch, 15 percent of the gross trailer weight for a 5th-wheel or gooseneck hitch.
5. Payload and GAWR should never be exceeded and must account for all of the above weights, including the appropriate trailering equipment and tongue weight.
6. Box-Off Body Completion Weight = 80 lb per foot from end of cab to end of frame.

What you can tow with a 2023 RAM 2500?

Here are some trailers and things you can tow with a 2023 RAM 2500 based on its towing capacity:

1. Travel trailers: The RAM 2500 can tow various travel trailers, including small and mid-size ones. With a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 lbs, you can easily tow travel trailers ranging from 12,000 to 16,000 lbs.
2. Fifth-wheel trailers: Fifth-wheel trailers are larger than conventional travel trailers and require a heavy-duty pickup truck to tow them. The RAM 2500 has a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 lbs, making it capable of towing fifth-wheel trailers that weigh between 15,000 and 18,000 lbs.
3. Boats: If you’re a boater, you’ll be pleased to know that the RAM 2500 can tow boats of varying sizes. With its impressive towing capacity, you can easily tow boats that weigh between 10,000 to 15,000 lbs.
4. Horse trailers: The RAM 2500 is also an excellent choice for horse owners who need to tow their horses. With a maximum towing capacity of 20,000 lbs, you can safely tow horse trailers that weigh between 12,000 to 16,000 lbs.
5. RVs: The RAM 2500 is capable of towing RVs of varying sizes. With its maximum towing capacity, you can tow large Class A RVs that weigh up to 20,000 lbs.
6. Construction equipment: Contractors who need to transport heavy construction equipment will find the RAM 2500 to be a reliable choice. With its high towing capacity, it can easily tow equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and other heavy machinery.
7. Utility trailers: If you need to tow a utility trailer for work or personal use, the RAM 2500 is up to the task. With its towing capacity, it can safely tow utility trailers that weigh up to 10,000 lbs.

Overall, the 2023 RAM 2500 is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful and reliable pickup truck for towing heavy loads.

Towing Safety and Guidelines

Here are some towing safety guidelines for the 2023 RAM 2500:

1. Know your towing capacity: Make sure to consult the owner’s manual to find out the maximum towing capacity for your specific RAM 2500 model and engine.
2. Distribute weight properly: Distribute the weight of your load evenly between the front and rear axles to avoid any excessive strain on either axle.
3. Use proper equipment: Use a weight distribution hitch and trailer brakes if your load weighs over 5,000 lbs. This will help distribute the weight evenly across all axles and increase braking efficiency.
4. Check your mirrors: Make sure you have proper visibility of the trailer and surrounding traffic before you start towing. Adjust your mirrors accordingly to ensure maximum visibility.
5. Drive defensively: Towing a load can affect the handling and stopping distance of your RAM 2500. Drive at a safe speed, maintain a greater following distance, and brake early and gradually to avoid sudden stops.
6. Monitor your vehicle: Keep an eye on the temperature gauge and oil pressure while towing. If you notice any unusual changes, stop your vehicle and let it cool down.
7. Practice reversing: Reversing while towing can be challenging. Practice in an empty parking lot or a wide-open area to get comfortable with the handling of your RAM 2500.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable towing experience with your 2023 RAM 2500.

With its impressive towing capacity, you’ll have plenty of options for trailers and other items you can safely tow with this vehicle.

Useful Resources

2023 RAM 2500 and 3500 Brochure

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2023 RAM 2500 boasts impressive towing and payload capacity across its various trims, engine options, and cab configurations.

With a towing capacity ranging from 14,460 to 20,000 pounds and a payload capacity ranging from 3,140 to 4,000 pounds, the RAM 2500 is an excellent choice for those who need a workhorse of a truck for heavy-duty jobs.

The various trims, including the Tradesman, Lone Star, Big Horn, Laramie, Power Wagon, Power Wagon Rebel, Longhorn, and Limited, offer unique features and capabilities to suit different needs. Overall, the 2023 RAM 2500 is a powerful and versatile truck that is sure to impress.