Forum Discussion

panamacamper1's avatar
Sep 30, 2013

2009 dodge ram 1500 sport towing

I have this truck. It has 355 Gears
quad cab
5.7 hemi
20 inch rims
I run mid grade fuel
I have been told everything from 6500 to 8500 pounds. I know the following year they came out with 10,000pound towing. What is my max towing?

20 Replies

  • You need the payload number from that sticker, not the GVWR. While you're next to that sticker, what are the FGAWR and RGAWR numbers? From my findings, the Rams have low rear axle load capacities. And with a 5490# empty trailer, the hitch weight may be high (820# for my 6200# loaded trailer).
  • It says gvwr 6700 pounds
    if this is true, what can I do to increase my towing. Aside from getting a bigger truck. We are looking at a ram mega cab 3500 diesel but that is when I get back from korea.
  • Check the payload weight which is the sticker when you open the door. Thats important and will tell you what trailer you can tow.
  • Sorry the sport is 4x2 and my trailer empty weighs in at 5490 as per the weight scale on ft meade military base. I weigh 230 the wife is like 140 but don't tell her I said that. Three kids come in about 190 together. Bed will be empty and I don't like bguys math at all lol
  • Per the 2009 Trailer Life towing guide, maximum towing is:

    Ram 1500 Quad Cab 2WD 5.7L V-8 7,800 (a5,f)
    Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4WD 5.7L V-8 7,550 (a5,f)

    a5 = Automatic Transmission, five speed
    f = 3:55:1 axle ratio

    2009 Trailer Life towing Guide
    p.20 for data, p.22 for (key).

    I second the previous reply, payload will be your limit.
  • Look at your door sticker. The one that says your cargo capacity is around 1250lb. Now you decide how much you'll be loading the truck with people and junk and the remainder is left for hitch weight. If we're generous and count 650lb for people, 100lb for the WDH you have a realistic 500lb left for hitch weight. Now we subtract 40lb for propane and 35lb for your battery and you are left with 425lb dry hitch weight and you're looking for a 3000lb trailer.
  • Subtract the actual weight of your loaded Ram (fuel, gear, people) from the GCWR rating which is usually on the door capacity sticker. The difference is what you can tow. Only then will you really know....
  • Have you actually searched online for the 2009 trailer life towing guide?