Elk Grove Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM
Elk Grove Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram · Ram 2500 Research
Both trucks use the same engines and cabs. The difference is what's underneath, and that changes how much they tow, how much they carry and how they ride empty.
| Ram 2500 | Ram 3500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Class | 3/4-ton | 1-ton |
| Engines | 6.4L HEMI V8 or 6.7L Cummins HO | Same two engines |
| Max towing, HEMI | 17,740 lb | 18,140 lb |
| Max towing, Cummins | 20,000 lb | 37,020 lb |
| Max payload, HEMI | 4,580 lb (Payload Upgrade Pkg) | 7,580 lb (dually) |
| Max payload, Cummins | 3,990 lb | 6,460 lb |
| Rear suspension | Five-link coil springs; available auto-leveling rear air | Leaf springs; available rear air assist |
| Rear wheels | Single only | Single or dual (dually) |
| Off-road trims | Power Wagon, Rebel | None |
Preliminary 2027 maximums. The 37,020-lb rating applies to a specific Cummins dually configuration; most 3500s are rated lower.
The Ram 2500 rides on coil springs at the rear, which is why it's the more comfortable truck when it's empty, and it's the only one of the two that comes as a Power Wagon or Rebel. The Ram 3500 uses leaf springs that handle much heavier loads, and it's offered as a dually. Dual rear wheels add stability when a heavy fifth-wheel or gooseneck puts thousands of pounds on the hitch.
New for 2027, HEMI Ram 2500s can add the Payload Upgrade Package, which brings a 3500-spec frame, rear leaf springs and an anti-spin rear differential. It raises payload to 4,580 lb. If you were looking at a single-rear-wheel 3500 mainly for bed capacity, this package may cover it in a 2500. If you need diesel towing above 20,000 lb or a dually, it won't.
| You plan to... | Consider |
|---|---|
| Tow a travel trailer, boat or car hauler under about 15,000 lb | Ram 2500, HEMI or Cummins |
| Tow a fifth-wheel up to about 20,000 lb | Ram 2500 Cummins, or a 3500 for margin |
| Tow a large fifth-wheel or gooseneck above 20,000 lb | Ram 3500 Cummins, often a dually |
| Carry a heavy slide-in truck camper | Ram 3500 |
| Drive empty most of the week and want the smoother ride | Ram 2500 |
Before you choose, check your trailer's loaded weight and pin or tongue weight against the door-jamb payload sticker of the truck you're looking at. Payload is often the limit before towing capacity is.
The Ram 2500 is a 3/4-ton truck with a coil-spring rear suspension and single rear wheels. The Ram 3500 is a 1-ton with rear leaf springs and an available dually setup, so it tows and carries much more. Both use the same 6.4L HEMI and 6.7L Cummins engines.
For a fifth-wheel up to about 20,000 lb, a Cummins Ram 2500 can do it if the pin weight fits within its payload. For heavier fifth-wheels, or for more margin, choose a Cummins Ram 3500.
Usually, when empty. The 3500's leaf springs are built for heavy loads, while the 2500's coil springs give a smoother unloaded ride.
Not always, but a dually adds stability and payload when a heavy trailer puts a lot of weight on the hitch. Ram's highest towing rating, up to 37,020 lb, comes from a Cummins Ram 3500 dually.
For bed payload, often yes: it raises a HEMI Ram 2500 to 4,580 lb. It doesn't change towing above the 2500's limits, and it isn't offered with the Cummins.
Elk Grove Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram · 8575 Laguna Grove Dr, Elk Grove, CA 95757 · Sales 916-892-0515
*Specifications are based on Ram's preliminary 2027 information and may change. Max towing and payload require proper equipment; actual capacity varies by cab, bed, axle and drivetrain, and passengers and cargo reduce towing capacity. Pricing on in-stock vehicles excludes government fees and taxes, any finance charges, dealer document processing charge and emission testing charge. Contact Elk Grove Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram for current pricing and availability.