2017 Ram 2500 Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2017 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty truck capable of towing a substantial amount, with its maximum towing capacity reaching up to 17,980 pounds when properly equipped.

Quick Answer

• Max Towing Capacity: 17,980 lbs
• Max Payload Capacity: 3,160 - 3,990 lbs (varies significantly by configuration)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 9,000 - 10,000 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): 24,000 lbs
• Curb Weight: 6,560 - 7,920 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Hitch Class: Class V receiver hitch (generally includes a 2.5-inch receiver, with some configurations offering a 3-inch receiver for greater capacity).

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

The 2017 Ram 2500 offers three engine options, each significantly impacting its towing and payload capabilities. It's crucial to note that these figures can vary based on cab style, bed length, drivetrain (2WD or 4WD), and specific trim levels or optional equipment. Always consult your truck's door jamb sticker for the exact payload and towing capacities for your specific vehicle.

Note: These are general ranges. Specific configurations within each engine/drivetrain/trim combination will have unique capacities.

Tow Package Contents

For the 2017 Ram 2500, several features are either standard or available to enhance towing capabilities and safety. While a dedicated "tow package" isn't always explicitly named as a single option across all trims, these components are typically included or available:

• Heavy-Duty Engine Cooling: Essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature during heavy towing.
• Trailer Brake Controller (Integrated): An integrated trailer brake controller allows for seamless and adjustable braking of the trailer, providing much better control and safety than aftermarket units.
• Trailer Sway Control: This system works with the electronic stability control to detect and mitigate trailer sway, improving stability and control in adverse conditions or with heavy loads.
• Trailer Tow Mirrors: Often available as an option, these larger mirrors provide a broader field of view, crucial for safe towing.
• 7-Pin Wiring Harness: Standard on most heavy-duty trucks, this provides power for trailer lights (running, brake, turn signals) and often includes a 12V charge line and an electric brake signal wire.
• Auxiliary Transmission Oil Cooler: Helps prevent transmission overheating, extending its lifespan when towing heavy loads.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

Being a heavy-duty truck, the 2017 Ram 2500 is very well-suited for 5th-wheel and gooseneck towing. Its robust frame and powertrain allow it to handle the significant tongue weight associated with these types of trailers. When properly equipped with a factory or aftermarket 5th-wheel/gooseneck prep package, the max 5th-wheel/gooseneck towing capacity can align with or even exceed the conventional towing capacity, going up to the truck's GCWR limit. Always ensure the 5th-wheel hitch and gooseneck ball are correctly installed and rated for the weight you intend to tow.

Weight Distribution & WDH Requirements

For conventional towing, a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) is often recommended or required, especially when towing trailers that weigh more than 5,000 lbs or have a significant tongue weight. A WDH helps distribute the trailer's tongue weight more evenly across the tow vehicle's axles and the trailer's axles, improving stability, braking, and steering. Always check the specific recommendations in your Ram 2500's owner