2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity Guide
The 2018 Ram 2500 can tow up to 25,300 pounds, perfect for heavy-duty tasks. It’s great for towing trailers, boats, or heavy equipment.
This guide will help you understand the Ram 2500’s engine options, payload, and configurations.
It’s important to know the maximum trailer weight for each engine. Also, the payload capacity and how different setups affect towing.
Towing too much can cause legal issues and insurance problems. Knowing this helps make your towing safer and more efficient.
Let’s explore the 2018 Ram 2500 together. We’ll share insights to help you make smart choices for work or fun!
Introduction to The 2018 Ram 2500
The 2018 Ram 2500 is built for heavy-duty tasks. It’s a solid choice for those who need a tough truck.
Its design and tech offer top-notch towing and hauling features. It has a max towing capacity of up to 19,780 pounds when ready.
This is great for hauling trailers, construction gear, or RVs. Knowing its payload capacity is key for safe hauling.
Key highlights of the 2018 Ram 2500 include:
- Powerful engine options: a robust 5.7-liter V8 and a 6.4-liter V8.
- Advanced towing technology that ensures safety and ease during operation.
- Available features such as the 12-inch fully configurable screen, improving the driver experience.
The vehicle comes with 4WD and rear drive options. This appeals to many, from construction workers to weekend explorers.
The 2018 Ram 2500 balances comfort with function, making any job easier.
What’s Towing Capacity?
Towing capacity is the max weight a vehicle can pull safely. It’s key for safety and performance.
Engine power, suspension, and design all play a part in a truck’s towing ability. The 2018 Ram 2500 is designed to handle big tasks, from daily hauls to large trailers.
The 2018 Ram 2500 can tow up to 17,980 pounds with its 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine. This lets you carry heavy loads safely.
Using a towing capacity calculator helps you tow correctly and safely. The Ram 2500 outshines its rivals in towing capacity.
Exceeding this can be dangerous and damage your vehicle. For example, towing a 14,000-pound fifth wheel requires careful planning.
You’ll need to consider pin weights, which can be 2,500 to 3,000 pounds for safety. Remember to calculate the total weight correctly.
The Ram 2500’s Gross Combined Vehicle Rating (GCVR) is 24,300 pounds.
With about 650 pounds for passengers and cargo, you have around 14,300 pounds for towing.
In summary, understanding towing capacity is vital. Use tools for comparison and make informed decisions.
This ensures safer towing and extends your vehicle’s life. Always know your truck’s specs before towing.
2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity Overview
The 2018 Ram 2500 is built for impressive towing. It meets your needs with its features.
It has three engine options, giving you great towing and payload capacities.
Max Towing Capacity
The 2018 Ram 2500 max tow capacity is impressive. It depends on the engine you choose:
| Engine Type | Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 5.7L HEMI® V8 | 13,890 pounds | 3,060 pounds |
| 6.4L HEMI® V8 | 16,320 pounds | 3,990 pounds |
| 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 | 17,980 pounds | 3,160 pounds |
Payload Capacity
Knowing the payload capacity of the 2018 Ram 2500 is key. It varies by engine, from 3,060 pounds to 3,990 pounds.
This lets you carry all your gear safely and efficiently.
Different Engine Options
The Ram 2500 has three engine options. Each affects the towing specs:
- 5.7L HEMI® V8: It has 383 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 13,890 pounds.
- 6.4L HEMI® V8: This engine gives 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 16,320 pounds.
- 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6: It makes 370 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 17,980 pounds.
2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity by Engine Type
The 2018 Ram 2500 comes with different engines for various towing needs. Knowing the towing capacity of each engine helps you choose the right one.
Here are the details of each engine and their towing capabilities.
5.7L V8 HEMI Engine
The 5.7L V8 HEMI engine is great for many towing jobs. It can tow up to 13,890 pounds, making it reliable for light to medium loads.
It also has a payload capacity of 3,060 pounds, perfect for general towing tasks.
6.4L V8 HEMI Engine
The 6.4L V8 HEMI engine offers more towing power. It can tow up to 16,320 pounds and has a payload of 3,990 pounds.
This engine is ideal for heavier trailers and loads, thanks to its extra horsepower and torque.
6.7L Cummins Diesel Engine
The 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine is perfect for heavy-duty towing. It can tow up to 17,980 pounds, making it the best choice.
It also has a payload of 3,160 pounds, allowing for significant hauling without losing performance.
| Engine Type | Max Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 5.7L V8 HEMI | 13,890 lbs | 3,060 lbs |
| 6.4L V8 HEMI | 16,320 lbs | 3,990 lbs |
| 6.7L Cummins Diesel | 17,980 lbs | 3,160 lbs |
Looking at the ram 2500 towing specs for each engine gives you important information. The right engine depends on your towing and payload needs.
2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity with Different Configurations
Learn how the different setups affect the 2018 Ram 2500’s towing is key.
The choice between regular cab and crew cab, and short box and long box, changes how much it can lift and tow.
These options greatly impact the truck’s performance.
Regular Cab vs. Crew Cab
The regular cab version usually has a lower towing capacity than the crew cab. This is mainly due to weight and design differences.
If you need to tow more, the crew cab is a better pick. Here’s why:
- Regular Cab: Generally provides less payload capacity.
- Crew Cab: Offers increased interior space and higher towing capability.
Short Box vs. Long Box
Choosing between a short box and a long box also affects towing and payload. A short box is better for city driving because it’s easier to park.
But, a long box gives more cargo space, which means it can carry more. This choice is important for your towing needs. Here are the main points:
- Short Box: Easier to park, but may have a lower maximum trailer towing capacity.
- Long Box: Greater storage space, often translating to better overall towing performance.
2018 Ram 2500 Towing Specs
The 2018 Ram 2500 has impressive towing specs. Knowing the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and trailer weight ratings is key.
These details help you use the truck’s towing power for work or fun.
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)
The GCWR is the total weight of the truck, trailer, and cargo. For the 2018 Ram 2500, the GCWR changes based on setup.
It reaches 17,980 pounds with the 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine in the Regular Cab Long Box 4×2 setup.
Max Trailer Weight Ratings
Trailer weight ratings show the Ram 2500’s towing flexibility. Here’s a look at max trailer weight ratings by engine and cab type:
| Configuration | 5.7L V8 HEMI | 6.4L V8 HEMI | 6.7L Cummins Diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Cab, Long Box, 4×2 (3.73 axle) | 9,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 25,300 lbs |
| Regular Cab, Long Box, 4×2 (4.10 axle) | 9,000 lbs | 10,000 lbs | 25,300 lbs |
| Crew Cab, Short Box, 4×2 (4.10 axle) | 20,300 lbs | 22,800 lbs | – |
| Crew Cab, Long Box, 4×2 | – | – | 25,300 lbs |
The 2018 Ram 2500 has a standard towing capacity of 13,890 pounds. Choosing the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel boosts it to 17,980 pounds.
This shows the truck’s power for tough towing jobs.
2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity Chart
The 2018 Ram 2500 towing capacity chart shows how payload and max trailer weight affect the truck’s performance.
It’s key for owners who aim to tow safely and efficiently. The chart follows SAE J2807, ensuring ratings are accurate and reliable.
This accuracy helps you choose the right trailer without risking safety. It’s all about making smart choices for your towing needs.
Payload vs. Max Trailer Weight
When looking at the 2018 Ram 2500’s towing capacity, remember payload and max trailer weight.
These elements together show what the truck can handle. Here’s a chart that breaks it down:
| Engine Type | Max Trailer Weight | Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 5.7L V8 HEMI | 20,300 lbs (4.10 Axle) | 3,050 lbs |
| 6.4L V8 HEMI | 22,800 lbs (4.10 Axle) | 3,990 lbs |
| 6.7L CUMMINS DIESEL | 25,300 lbs (3.42 Axle) | 3,160 lbs |
SAE J2807 Compliance
SAE J2807 compliance is critical for the trustworthiness of towing capacity ratings. This standard sets clear methods for testing towing capabilities.
It ensures the figures for your 2018 Ram 2500 are reliable.Following these standards boosts safety and performance when towing.
It’s all about using your truck to its fullest, safely.
Factors Affecting Towing Performance
Knowing what affects towing performance is key for the 2018 Ram 2500. The axle ratio and weight distribution are critical.
Making smart choices in these areas can improve your towing experience.
Axle Ratio Implications
The axle ratio affects how well your Ram 2500 tows. A lower ratio means more towing power.
But, a higher ratio is better for fuel when towing lighter loads. Finding the right balance can make towing easier and safer.
Weight Distribution and Hitch Options
Stability while towing depends on weight distribution. The right hitch ensures the load is balanced. This prevents swaying and improves control.
Choosing the right equipment is essential, even for loads near the Ram 2500’s max.
Poor choices can make driving hard, mainly in tough conditions. Good hitches and understanding weight distribution help avoid towing risks.
| Axle Ratio | Towing Strength | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| 3.73 | High | Moderate |
| 4.10 | Very High | Low |
| 3.21 | Low | High |
2018 Ram 2500 Towing Capability in Real-World Conditions
The 2018 Ram 2500 is known for its strong towing ability. It gives you the confidence to handle heavy loads. Tests and user experiences show it stays stable and in control, even when it’s at its limit.
With a max trailer towing capacity of 18,000 lbs, many drivers say it does great in tough situations.
Performance During Heavy Loads
Drivers often talk about how well the Ram 2500 handles heavy trailers. For example, it can handle a fifth-wheel trailer of 18,000 lbs well.
Even with pin weights close to 3,600 lbs, the truck’s drivetrain stays reliable. Many users say the truck handles more than usual without any issues.
This means it can reach its payload capacity before other weights like the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) come into play.
Driver Experiences and Testimonials
Owners of the 2018 Ram 2500 are very happy with its towing capacity. About 90% of Ram 2500 users feel confident in its performance when towing.
They talk about how comfortable and in control it feels, even on long trips.
The heavy-duty transmission with 410 lb-ft of torque helps keep the truck reliable. It supports both daily use and long towing trips without losing performance.
Comparison of 2018 Ram 2500 with Competitors
The 2018 Ram 2500 is a top choice in heavy-duty trucks. It beats out the Ford F-250 and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 in towing and performance.
Let’s look at how it stacks up against its rivals, focusing on towing and performance.
Best Trucks For Towing
The battle among heavy-duty trucks is fierce. The 2018 Ram 2500 shines, thanks to its gas and diesel engines. Here are some key points:
- It has the best gas towing capacity at 17,720 pounds with the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine.
- The diesel engine can tow up to 20,000 pounds, making it a powerhouse.
- Features like exclusive link coil rear suspensions improve handling, making towing easier.
Towing Capacity Comparison with Rivals
Let’s compare the towing capacities of the 2018 Ram 2500 to its competitors:
| Truck Model | Max Gas Towing Capacity | Max Diesel Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Ram 2500 | 17,720 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Chevy Silverado 2500 | 16,000 lbs | 20,000 lbs |
| Ford F-250 | 17,500 lbs | 20,500 lbs |
The Ram 2500’s diesel capacity is on par with the Chevrolet Silverado 2500. But it beats them in gas towing.
This makes it a top pick in towing capacity discussions. It’s a strong contender among the best trucks for towing.
Utilizing Towing Capacity Calculator For 2018 Ram 2500
A towing capacity calculator is key for anyone wanting to improve their towing setup.
It lets you check if your vehicle can handle the weight of what you’re towing.
Just enter your vehicle’s details and the load’s weight to find out the safe towing limits of your 2018 Ram 2500. This way, you use your vehicle’s full power while staying safe.
Many Ram 2500 towing features are important when using a towing capacity calculator.
Knowing your vehicle’s max towing capacity, 17,980 pounds for the 2018 model, is a must.
The payload capacity, 3,990 pounds, also matters a lot for towing efficiency. Using the calculator right helps avoid dangers of towing too heavy.
Towing over your vehicle’s limit can be very risky. It might also lead to legal and financial problems.
For example, insurance might not cover claims if you’re towing too much.
To make smart choices, follow these steps with a towing capacity calculator:
- Get your 2018 Ram 2500’s specs, like engine type and towing capacity.
- Find out how much your trailer and load weigh.
- Put these numbers into the calculator to see safe towing limits.
- Change your setup as needed to stay within safe limits.
The towing capacity calculator is a vital tool. It helps you make choices that boost your 2018 Ram 2500’s performance and safety.
| Specification | 2018 Ram 2500 |
|---|---|
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 17,980 pounds |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 3,990 pounds |
Conclusion
The 2018 Ram 2500 is a standout in the heavy-duty truck market. It has a high towing capacity, making it perfect for tough tasks.
You can choose the right setup for your needs, whether for work or play.
This truck can tow up to 17,980 pounds with the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel engine. It also has a GVWR of 8,500 to 10,000 pounds.
This means you can trust it to carry heavy loads. Choosing the right setup for your 2018 Ram 2500 makes driving better.
It offers power, payload, and towing capacity. It’s great for both personal and professional use, always delivering on performance and reliability.
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2018 Ram 2500?
The 2018 Ram 2500 can tow up to 17,980 pounds. This is with the 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine.
How is the payload capacity of the 2018 Ram 2500 determined?
Payload capacity depends on the engine and setup. It ranges from 2,350 to 3,990 pounds.
Which engine option provides the best towing performance in the 2018 Ram 2500?
The 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine is the top choice. It allows for a maximum tow of 17,980 pounds.
How does the configuration of the 2018 Ram 2500 affect towing capacity?
Towing capacity changes with cab style and box length. Crew Cabs usually have higher capacities.
What is the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) for the 2018 Ram 2500?
The GCWR for the 2018 Ram 2500 can go up to 25,300 pounds. This depends on the chosen setup.
Is the towing capacity of the 2018 Ram 2500 compliant with standards?
Yes, the towing capacities meet SAE J2807 standards. This ensures they are based on reliable methods.
What factors can impact the towing performance of the 2018 Ram 2500?
Several factors matter, like axle ratio and weight distribution. The type of hitch used also plays a role.
How can I calculate my towing capacity for the 2018 Ram 2500?
Use a towing capacity calculator. It helps figure out safe towing limits based on your truck’s power and payload.
