How Heavy of a Trailer Can a 2016 Ram 1500 Tradesman Pull

Question:

Hello I have an 2016 Ram Tradesman. It is set up for towing and has the 5.7 hemi engine. It is a regular cab with a six ft box. How big of a fifth wheel can I tow? Thank you

asked by: Cathy

Expert Reply:

In addition to cab type, bed length, and engine size I would also need to know the drive type (4x2 or 4x4), transmission, and gear ratio in order to inform you of the towing capacity for your 2016 Ram 1500. The transmission and gear ratio info is usually found on a sticker inside the passenger glove box but you could always call the dealer with your VIN.

Regular Cab, 6'4" Box, and 4x2:

5.7L V8 HEMI A6 65RFE 3.21 Max Tow - 7,220 lbs
5.7L V8 HEMI A6 65RFE 3.92 Max Tow - 9,200 lbs
5.7L V8 HEMI A8 8HP70 3.21 Max Tow - 8,610 lbs
5.7L V8 HEMI A8 8HP70 3.92 Max Tow - 9,160 lbs

Regular Cab, 6'4" Box, and 4x4:

5.7L V8 HEMI A6 65RFE 3.55 Max Tow - 9,060 lbs
5.7L V8 HEMI A6 65RFE 3.92 Max Tow - 8,990 lbs
5.7L V8 HEMI A8 8HP70 3.21 Max Tow - 8,420 lbs
5.7L V8 HEMI A8 8HP70 3.92 Max Tow - 8,970 lbs

With a minimum of 7,220 lbs and maximum of 9,160 lbs you are going to be looking at trailers like the Grand Design RV Reflection 150 Series 230 RL/273 MK, Allen Camper Idle-Time 8-2690 RETS, Coachmen Chaparral Lite 275 RLS, Heartland ElkRidge 27RLSS etc.

In order to tow a 5th wheel trailer, I recommend using the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # 16516 with the Curt Custom Fifth Wheel Installation Kit part # C16444-204. This is going to be an excellent starter kit for 5th wheel towing. The E16 is easy to use and the install kit is a custom fit so no drilling into the frame is required. I also recommend using the Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness part # C56070.

I have attached review/install videos for you as well.