How Much Can the Ram 3500 Tow?
How Much Can the Ram 3500 Tow?
Posted on April 16, 2025
When the job gets serious, you need a truck that doesn’t back down. That’s where the Ram 3500 comes in. Built for heavy towing and long hauls, it’s trusted by workers, farmers, and families across Ontario. But one question is asked often—how much can the Ram 3500 tow? The answer depends on the engine, trim, and how it's set up. Let’s break it all down in a simple way.
Towing Starts with the Right Engine
The Ram 3500 gives you a few engine choices. Each one can tow different amounts. So, it all starts with what’s under the hood. The standard engine is a 6.4-litre HEMI V8. It gives strong performance and good value. This gas-powered option offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 8,260 kg. It’s great for most work trailers and heavy loads.
Next, there’s the 6.7-litre Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6. This engine is well-known for its power and long-term durability. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 10,283 kg. This is perfect for people pulling campers, horse trailers, or large boats across Ontario highways.
And if you want the most pulling strength, there’s the High-Output version of the 6.7-litre Cummins. This one gives a towing capacity of up to 16,824 kg. That’s one of the highest numbers for a pickup in Canada. If you move construction equipment or fifth-wheel RVs, this engine is built for you.
Transmission Makes a Big Difference
Each engine is matched with a transmission that helps with towing. The 6.4-litre HEMI comes with an 8-speed automatic. It shifts smooth and gives strong control. The diesel engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic. These are made to handle big weight and long-distance hauls. Towing feels steady and safe, even on steep hills around Trenton or heading into cottage country.
Trims That Work for the Way You Tow
The Ram 3500 comes in several trims. Each one has a different purpose. The Tradesman is basic but strong. It’s good for job sites and heavy use. The Big Horn adds more features like chrome bumpers and extra tech.
The Laramie is more refined inside, with leather seats and a bigger touchscreen. If you want a truck that feels like a workhorse but rides like a luxury car, the Limited trim is ideal. It offers top-end towing with comfort built in. The Limited Longhorn mixes work and western style, great for rural Ontario drivers.
Every trim can tow, but payload and equipment change from one to the next. For example, a Tradesman with a diesel engine and gooseneck prep can tow more than a gas-powered Laramie without the towing package. That’s why checking the spec sheet matters.
Towing Features That Make Life Easier
The Ram 3500 doesn’t just pull weight—it helps you do it with confidence. The available Trailer Reverse Steering Control lets you guide the trailer using a knob, not the steering wheel. That makes backing up much easier, especially in tight spaces or campsites.
An optional 360° Surround View Camera with Trailer Tow Mode helps you keep an eye on everything. It’s especially helpful in busy areas like downtown Trenton or crowded job sites. Blind-spot monitoring can be added too. It works even with a trailer attached.
The truck also offers an in-bed towing camera. This lets you line up the fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch with less stress. Plus, with features like Trailer Light Check and Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring, you’ll spend more time towing and less time checking things the hard way.
Don’t Forget Payload Matters Too
While towing is important, payload also needs to be looked at. Payload means how much weight you can carry in the bed of the truck. The Ram 3500 offers a max payload of up to 3,483 kg when equipped with the 6.4L HEMI. That’s more than enough for tools, supplies, and even ATVs or snowmobiles.
Payload affects towing too. If your bed is full, you might need to subtract that weight from your trailer load. It’s always a good idea to check your total weight before hitting the road.
Built for Ontario Roads and Weather
Ontario weather can be tricky. One day it's sunny. The next, it’s snow and slush. The Ram 3500 is ready for it. With four-wheel drive available on most trims, slippery roads in Trenton or back roads to Prince Edward County are handled with ease.
Ground clearance and underbody protection give extra help in rough conditions. Whether you’re hauling tools to a job or towing a snowmobile trailer to a cottage, this truck won’t slow down. Heated mirrors and a heated steering wheel also make winter mornings easier to handle.
Fuel Numbers to Keep in Mind
Big power often means more fuel use. The Ram 3500 isn’t the most fuel-saving vehicle, but it does well for its size. The diesel engine is the most efficient of the three, especially on long highway drives. If you do a lot of towing or highway work, it may cost less in the long run.
Fuel tanks range from 117 to 121 litres, depending on trim and configuration. That means fewer stops when travelling long distances. And in rural parts of Ontario, that’s always a good thing.
How Much Does the Ram 3500 Cost in Ontario?
Prices change based on trim, features, and engine. A base Tradesman model starts from around $64,000*. High-end trims like the Limited Longhorn or Limited can go well above $90,000*, especially when diesel engines and extra tech are added.
To get the best price, it’s smart to build your truck based on what you’ll tow. You don’t need every feature, but having the right ones can make a big difference in safety and comfort.
Final Thoughts: The Right Truck for Real Work
The Ram 3500 isn’t just built for towing—it’s made for life in places like Trenton. Whether it’s for farming, construction, or weekend toys, this truck is built to work hard. The towing numbers are impressive, but the features and comfort are what make it stand out.
If you’ve been thinking about a heavy-duty pickup, the Ram 3500 is a smart, strong, and capable choice.
Come See It for Yourself at Spelmer Chrysler
Want to see how the Ram 3500 fits your life? Come to Spelmer Chrysler in Trenton, ON. Our team is here to help you find the perfect trim, engine, and towing setup. Whether you're hauling gear or heading to the lake, we’ll help you build the right truck for the job.