The 2017 Ram 1500 stands as one of the most capable full-size pickup trucks on the market, particularly noted for its impressive towing capabilities. Understanding exactly how much this truck can pull is essential for anyone considering it for hauling trailers, boats, or campers. The actual towing capacity is not a single number, but rather a range determined by the specific configuration of the engine, rear axle ratio, and cab style selected by the buyer.
Factory Towing Capacity Specifications
According to official specifications from RAM, the 2017 model year offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,730 pounds when properly equipped. This peak figure is reserved for the specific configuration featuring the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine paired with the eTorque mild-hybrid system and the 3.56 rear axle ratio. It is important to note that this is the maximum limit under ideal conditions; real-world towing often requires derating the trailer weight based on factors such as tongue weight, road grade, and ambient temperature.
Engine and Drivetrain Impact
The choice of powertrain plays the most significant role in determining how much the truck can tow. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 provides a respectable towing capacity of 6,730 pounds, which is suitable for smaller trailers and jet skis. Stepping up to the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 increases the capacity to the aforementioned 7,730 pounds, while the available 6.4-liter HEMI V8 pushes the maximum towing figure to 7,230 pounds. The six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range and is fully capable of handling the torque demands of these configurations.
Cab Style and Configuration Variables
The body style of the 2017 Ram 1500 also affects its towing performance. A Quad Cab configuration, which features a shorter rear door, generally has a slightly lower towing capacity compared to the standard Crew Cab. This is due to differences in weight distribution and suspension geometry. Furthermore, the presence of the eTorque belt-driven starter generator adds slight weight to the front end but helps smooth out power delivery, which can be beneficial when pulling a heavy load.
Payload Capacity Considerations
Towing capacity is only one half of the equation; the other half is payload capacity, which is the weight of passengers and cargo the truck can carry in its bed and cab. Towing a heavy trailer adds significant stress to the rear suspension, so the weight of the trailer tongue—which counts against the payload—must be subtracted from the total allowed payload. For example, a fully loaded 2017 Ram 1500 with the 5.7-liter HEMI might have a payload capacity of around 1,150 pounds. If the trailer tongue weighs 500 pounds, only 650 pounds of additional cargo and passengers are allowed.
Real-World Towing and Driving Dynamics
Beyond the numbers, the experience of towing a 2017 Ram 1500 is defined by its refined engineering. The truck features an available active-leveling air suspension that maintains a level ride whether the bed is loaded or the trailer is hitched. This system is crucial for managing the geometry of the truck and trailer, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of the trailer swaying. The available rear air springs help manage the squat that occurs when the truck is under heavy load.
Braking and Safety Systems
Adequate braking power is essential for safe towing, and the 2017 Ram 4x4 models come equipped with Trailer Sway Control as a standard feature. This system uses the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to apply brakes to individual wheels if it detects the trailer beginning to swing. When towing near the maximum capacity, opting for the 4x4 variant is highly recommended, as the added weight of the drivetrain provides extra traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or off-road scenarios.
