2014 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity & Payload Guide

The 2014 Ram 2500 can tow a maximum of 17,970 pounds when properly equipped with the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, a regular cab, and 2WD configuration. As a heavy-duty workhorse, the 2014 model year ushered in significant suspension upgrades, moving to a segment-exclusive five-link coil rear suspension that dramatically improved ride quality without sacrificing heavy towing capabilities. Whether you are hauling a massive camper, a loaded horse trailer, or heavy construction equipment, the Ram 2500 offers exceptional towing prowess, especially since 2014 was a pivotal year where Ram heavily adopted the SAE J2807 towing standards to provide highly accurate, standardized ratings.

Quick answer

• Max Tow Capacity: 17,970 lbs (6.7L Cummins, Reg Cab, 2WD)
• Max Payload: 3,170 lbs (5.7L V8, Reg Cab, 2WD)
• GVWR: 8,500 lbs to 10,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
• GCWR: Up to 25,000 lbs (with 6.7L Cummins)
• Curb Weight: 5,750 lbs to 7,450 lbs (depending on cab, engine, and drivetrain)
• Hitch Class: Standard Class V receiver (2.5-inch with 2-inch adapter)

Note: Always verify your specific truck’s ratings by checking the tire and loading information sticker on the driver’s side door jamb.

Tow ratings by engine & trim

For 2014, the Ram 2500 was available with three engine choices: the standard 5.7L HEMI V8, a newly introduced 6.4L HEMI V8, and the legendary 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel inline-six. Keep in mind that exact capacities fluctuate heavily based on cab size (Regular, Crew, Mega), box length, and axle ratio (3.42, 3.73, or 4.10). Here is a general breakdown of the maximum capacities for key engine and drivetrain configurations:

Tow package contents

To achieve these massive numbers safely, Ram outfitted the 2014 2500 with a robust suite of towing equipment. When equipped with the factory tow packages, the vehicle includes:

• Heavy-Duty Transmission Cooler: Essential for keeping the 6-speed automatic transmissions (66RFE or 68RFE) cool under heavy loads.
• Integrated Factory Trailer Brake Controller: Allows the driver to adjust trailer brake gain directly from the dashboard, fully integrated with the EVIC display.
• Trailer Sway Control: Utilizing the truck’s electronic stability control (ESC) system to detect and mitigate trailer sway by applying individual truck brakes and reducing engine power.
• 7-Pin & 4-Pin Wiring Harness: Bumper-integrated connectors for easy plug-and-play with all standard trailer setups.
• Exhaust Brake (Diesel Only): The "smart" diesel exhaust brake system helps maintain vehicle speed on descents, drastically reducing wear on the mechanical brakes.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

As a Heavy Duty truck, the 2014 Ram 2500 is highly capable of pulling 5th-wheel and gooseneck trailers. In fact, 2014 introduced Ram’s factory-installed 5th-wheel/gooseneck prep package. This package integrated the mounting structure directly into the truck’s structural frame crossmembers at the factory, providing a perfectly flat cargo bed when the hitch is removed. It also added a 7-pin connector inside the truck bed. If you are towing a heavy 5th-wheel, the 6.7L Cummins is the engine of choice, handling pin weights up to the truck's max payload of roughly 2,500 lbs (depending on the trim). Just be hyper-aware of your payload capacity—diesel engines are heavy, which subtracts from the truck's available payload for pin weight.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For conventional, bumper-pull towing, the 2014 Ram 2500 features a massive Class V hitch receiver (2.5-inch opening). While the heavy-duty suspension is highly capable, Ram generally recommends using a Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) for conventional trailers weighing over 5,000 pounds, and it is strictly required for trailers exceeding 8,500 pounds or tongue weights over 850 pounds. This ensures that weight is properly transferred to the front axle, maintaining steering control and headlight alignment.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Mind the Coil Springs: The 2014 model's coil-spring rear suspension provides a phenomenally smooth unladen ride, but it can sag slightly more under max tongue weight than older leaf-spring setups. If you max out payload often, consider adding aftermarket air bags to level the ride.
• Use Tow/Haul Mode: Always engage this mode when pulling anything substantial. It alters the transmission shift points, keeping the engine in its optimal power band and utilizing engine braking to control downhill speeds.
• Watch EGTs on the Cummins: If you are pulling heavy grades with the diesel, keep an eye on your engine temps. The factory cooling is robust, but maintaining momentum before hitting the hill is key.
• Check the Adapters: The factory Class V receiver requires a 2.5-inch to 2-inch reducer sleeve for standard 2-inch ball mounts. Keep the pin greased, as these sleeves are prone to rusting in place.

Common towing-related issues

While the 2014 Ram 2500 is incredibly durable, owners who tow frequently have reported a few common issues:

• Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Soot: On the 6.7L Cummins, extensive idling or low-speed towing can cause soot buildup in the EGR valve and DPF. Regular highway-speed towing under load usually prevents this.
• Transmission Heat (66RFE): The 66RFE transmission mated to the HEMI engines can run hot if you lug the engine up steep grades without Tow/Haul mode engaged.
• Front End Wear: Heavy towing places strain on the steering components, particularly the tie rods and ball joints. Regular front-end alignments and inspections are necessary.

Whether you're gearing up for a cross-country RV trip or hauling heavy machinery to a job site, knowing your truck's limits is the key to safety and longevity. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.