2016 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2016 Ram 2500 is a powerful heavy-duty truck designed for serious towing and hauling, capable of towing up to 17,980 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 17,980 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 3,160 lbs
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 9,000 – 10,000 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 24,000 – 25,300 lbs
• Curb Weight: 6,700 – 8,100 lbs (varies significantly by configuration)
• Hitch Class: Class V receiver (typically 2-inch receiver, some configurations may offer a 2.5-inch)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2016 Ram 2500 offers three robust engine options, each providing impressive towing and hauling capabilities. It's crucial to remember that actual towing and payload capacities will vary based on cab configuration, bed length, drivetrain (2WD or 4WD), axle ratio, and specific trim levels. Always consult your vehicle's door jamb sticker for the most accurate information.

Note: These figures are representative and can vary. Always refer to your specific vehicle's labels.

Tow package contents

For the 2016 Ram 2500, a robust tow package or heavy-duty components are standard or available to enhance towing performance and safety. While specific names may vary by trim and year, key features often include:

• Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Allows for seamless and proportional braking of the trailer, directly controlled from the truck's cab.
• Trailer Tow Mirrors: Larger mirrors, often extendable, provide improved visibility of the trailer.
• 7-Pin and 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness: Provides essential electrical connections for trailer lights, brakes, and auxiliary power.
• Heavy-Duty Engine Cooling: Upgraded cooling systems (e.g., larger radiator, transmission cooler) to manage higher temperatures generated during heavy towing.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC): An electronic stability system that helps detect and mitigate trailer sway, improving stability and control on the road.
• Tow/Haul Mode: Modifies transmission shift points to optimize power delivery and engine braking when towing or hauling heavy loads.

5th-wheel & gooseneck

The 2016 Ram 2500, being a heavy-duty truck, is well-suited for 5th-wheel and gooseneck towing. These setups offer superior stability and higher towing capacities compared to conventional bumper-pull towing due to the weight being distributed directly over the rear axle of the truck.

• 5th-Wheel Towing Capacity: Up to approximately 17,980 lbs (for the 6.7L Cummins with automatic transmission, properly equipped).
• Gooseneck Towing Capacity: Generally similar to 5th-wheel capacity, as both systems utilize a hitch mounted in the bed over the rear axle.

To safely tow a 5th-wheel or gooseneck trailer, you will need the appropriate in-bed hitch receiver and mounting hardware. Ram offered a factory-installed 5th-wheel/gooseneck prep package, which included bed-mounted pucks for easy installation of compatible hitches. Always ensure your chosen hitch matches your truck's and trailer's weight ratings.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For conventional towing with the 2016 Ram 2500, particularly with heavier trailers approaching or exceeding 5,000 lbs (and often recommended for trailers over 2,000 lbs), a Weight Distribution Hitch (WDH) is highly recommended. A WDH helps to distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, restoring proper steering and braking control and reducing stress on the rear suspension.

While the Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty truck, using a WDH can significantly improve stability, handling, and safety when towing substantial loads. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific WDH requirements and recommendations. The maximum tongue weight capacity without a WDH will be lower than with one.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Check Tire Pressure: Ensure both your truck and trailer tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended cold pressures for towing.
• Distribute Cargo Evenly: Load your trailer with about 60% of the cargo weight in the front half to achieve optimal tongue weight (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight for conventional towing, 15-25% for 5th-wheel/gooseneck).
• Perform Pre-Trip Checks: Verify lights, brakes, hitch connections, and safety chains are all in working order before every trip.
• Allow for Longer Stopping Distances: Towing significantly increases the braking distance required. Plan ahead and maintain ample space between your Ram and other vehicles.
• Descend Gears on Downhills: Utilize the Ram 2500's engine braking (especially effective with the Cummins engine) or downshift the transmission on steep descents to help control speed and reduce brake wear.
• Monitor Temperatures: Keep an eye on engine and transmission temperatures, especially on long climbs or hot days.

Common towing-related issues

Owners of 2016 Ram 2500s might encounter issues common to heavy-duty trucks or related to specific components:

• Suspension Sag: While the Ram 2500 has a robust suspension, continuously towing at or near max capacity can lead to premature wear or sag. Airbags or helper springs can be aftermarket solutions.
• Brake Wear: Heavy towing places increased demand on brakes, potentially leading to faster wear. Regular inspections and using appropriate trailer braking are crucial.
• Transmission Heat: Although equipped with a transmission cooler, extreme towing conditions can still generate significant heat. Monitoring transmission fluid temperature is important.
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Consumption (for Cummins diesel): Heavy towing with the diesel engine will increase DEF consumption, requiring more frequent refills.
• Steering Wander: Some heavy-duty trucks, when heavily loaded or with specific tire setups, can experience a sensation of steering wander. Proper tire pressure, alignment, and potentially steering stabilizers can help.

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