How Much Can a Ram 1500 Tow?

The Ram 1500 is one of the most capable half-ton trucks you can buy, and how much it can tow comes down to which engine and configuration you choose. Properly equipped, the 2026 Ram 1500 tows up to 11,610 pounds. Here is the full breakdown by engine, plus what it takes to reach that number, and how to shop one at ALM CDJR Perry.

Ram 1500 maximum towing: up to 11,610 pounds

The 2026 Ram 1500 maxes out at 11,610 pounds of towing when properly equipped. That is enough for large travel trailers, boats, car haulers, and most of what a half-ton owner tows. Your truck’s actual rating depends on the engine, cab, bed, drivetrain, and axle ratio, so it is worth matching the build to how you plan to tow.

Ram 1500 towing capacity by engine

For 2026, the Ram 1500 offers four engines, including the returning 5.7-liter HEMI V8. Here is how they compare when properly equipped:

• 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque: up to about 8,130 pounds
• 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo I6 (Standard Output): up to 11,610 pounds, the highest in the lineup
• 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo I6 (High Output): up to about 10,000 pounds
• 5.7L HEMI V8 with eTorque: up to 11,320 pounds

The standard-output Hurricane six is the towing leader, with the returning HEMI V8 close behind. The High Output Hurricane trades a little towing for its 540 horsepower, and the V6 is the efficiency-minded choice for lighter loads.

Ram 1500 payload

Payload is what you carry in the bed and cab, and the Ram 1500 handles up to 2,360 pounds when properly equipped. Payload also varies by configuration, so a lighter Quad Cab rear-drive truck carries more than a heavily optioned Crew Cab. If you haul heavy loads in the bed, check the payload rating on the specific truck you are considering.

How to reach the maximum towing capacity

To hit the top 11,610-pound rating, a Ram 1500 needs the 3.0-liter Hurricane engine, the 3.92 rear axle ratio, and the Trailer-Tow Group. Adding four-wheel drive, a larger cab, or a longer bed changes the number, so the window sticker or our team can confirm the exact rating for any truck on our lot. If towing is your priority, we can help you spec the right combination.

Tow with confidence

Always stay within your truck’s tow rating, and factor in tongue weight, passengers, and cargo so you do not exceed the gross combined weight rating. A properly equipped Ram 1500 with the Trailer-Tow Group also adds features like trailer sway control and an integrated trailer brake controller to make towing easier and safer.

Shop the Ram 1500 at ALM CDJR Perry

Ready to see one in person? Learn more about the Ram 1500, browse our Ram 1500 inventory, or contact our team near Perry and Warner Robins to match the right engine and towing package to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can a 2026 Ram 1500 tow?

Properly equipped, the 2026 Ram 1500 tows up to 11,610 pounds with the 3.0-liter Hurricane standard-output engine, the 3.92 axle ratio, and the Trailer-Tow Group. Actual capacity varies by cab, bed, and drivetrain.

Which Ram 1500 engine tows the most?

The 3.0-liter Hurricane standard-output six tows the most, up to 11,610 pounds, with the returning 5.7-liter HEMI V8 close behind at up to 11,320 pounds.

Does the Ram 1500 have a V8 for towing?

Yes. The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 returns for 2026 and tows up to 11,320 pounds when properly equipped, alongside the Hurricane six and the V6.

What do I need to tow the maximum with a Ram 1500?

To reach the top rating, the truck needs the 3.0-liter Hurricane engine, the 3.92 rear axle ratio, and the Trailer-Tow Group. Our team can confirm the exact rating on any Ram 1500 in our inventory.

How much can a Ram 1500 carry in payload?

The Ram 1500 carries up to 2,360 pounds of payload when properly equipped. Payload varies by cab, bed, and options, so check the rating on the specific truck.