Community Forums

Trueman619m · 04-13-2018, 09:56 PM

Not sure where to get factual information so I’ll come here and get opinions from folks that know the demands of towing.

Let’s say we don’t know how heavy of a 5th wheel we are going to be towing FULL TIME on the road. But we do want a Dodge Ram. We were sold on the 3500 because of its, in the right set up, ability to tow 30,000lbs all day and all night without batting an eye. Now I’m a realist and I understand there are variables, but know I’ve heard a few times that the 2500 is much under that capacity.

So here’s what I’d like. Please share with me what you know about the differences between the two and their abilities.

Tired of tales so I come here to you all.

Thanks!

cfowler55 · 04-13-2018, 10:05 PM

When I bought mine (2017) you could only get 3.42 gears in the 2500. Felt that was a little tall for heavy towing. The 3500 will give you more cushion In towing and payload. I would decide on a weight class of RV then match the truck to it.

cfowler55 · 04-13-2018, 10:08 PM

Also you may get better response if you get this moved to the 5th wheel or trailer towing forum

plasma800 · 04-13-2018, 10:19 PM

3500... why go down?

CWSWine · 04-13-2018, 10:49 PM

A diesel Ram with 2200 pounds payload on the yellow door tag this is what towing planner says about it.
You're adding approximately 550 lbs. to the truck. You have 1,650 lbs. of payload capacity. Fifth wheels typically have 20% - 25% pin weight which gives you a maximum loaded camper weight of 6,600 - 8,250 lbs.
Here is the link Towing Calculator based on Truck's Payload/CCC - Towing Planner

Now a Ram 3500 with about 3750 payload this is what towing planner says
You're adding approximately 550 lbs. to the truck. You have 3,200 lbs. of payload capacity. Fifth wheels typically have 20% - 25% pin weight which gives you a maximum loaded camper weight of 12,800 - 16,000 lbs.
Here is the link Towing Calculator based on Truck's Payload/CCC - Towing Planner

As you can see the 3500 is a better choice over the 2500 when it comes to towing a 5er. It's not towing capacity but payload is the limiting factor.

Newmar2856 · 04-13-2018, 11:19 PM

I’ve got to agree with CWSWine, it’s not about how much you can pull, it’s how much you can carry. You want payload and you’ll get more with a 3500. Whenever friends say they’re getting a 3/4 ton truck I always steer them to the 1 ton. It’s better to have the payload and not use it, then not have the payload and wish you did.

Cat320 · 04-14-2018, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jtaylor1920

...it's not about how much you can pull, it’s how much you can carry. You want payload and you’ll get more with a 3500. ...

True. Many 3/4 ton drivers like to say they don't need a one ton because their truck "pulls fine." All diesels pull fine, but most 3/4s are over weight because they don't have the cargo capacity for the pin weight...and everything else in the truck.

RunningHard · 04-16-2018, 10:15 AM

In the many years I ran a large Ford store, 95% of new diesels sold were 1 ton. I know for a fact that in different parts of this great country, lots of people drive 3/4 ton trucks. I personally drive a 1 ton as a daily driver, have since 01, I believe one can never have too much truck.

HighDesert · 04-16-2018, 11:48 AM

Prior to having my 1 ton F350 SD, SRW, I had two Dodge 3/4 ton diesel trucks, at the same time. On the 3/4 that I had ordered with HD suspension, I still had to add air bags in order to achieve a level tow. Personally, I'd go with the 1 ton if you can deal with the ride and stiffer suspension, although the ride has greatly improved over the years. The other consideration is SRW or DRW. I am of the belief that you never have too much truck when you need it.