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Congratulations! As the new owner of a tough, rugged Ram Pickup, you now have access to a wide range of capabilities. If your plans for your new Ram Pickup include towing, we would like to offer you some tips for getting the job done smoothly and safely. Pickup truck towing safety is paramount for you, your passengers, and the other drivers on the road around you.
Know How Much Your Ram Truck Can Tow
Your Ram Pickup has a GCVW rating which will help you figure out how much you can tow. This stands for Gross Combined Vehicle Weight and is located on the vehicle. It is the maximum amount that your Ram can safely carry, and is the total weight of passengers, cargo, and everything you are towing, including the trailer. Do not under any circumstances exceed this total weight.
General Towing Capacity Rule of Thumb
Different Ram Pickups have different towing capabilities. The Ram 1500 is perfect for towing boats, ATVs or trailers. Larger towed items, like a horse trailer or an RV, are better suited to the heavy-duty Ram 2500 or 3500. If you need to tow construction equipment or other heavy commercial loads, the Ram 3500 is likely your best choice.
Trailer Loading Tips
First, be aware of your trailer's maximum load rating. This is known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and is usually found on the trailer's VIN plate. This includes the weight of the trailer itself, so deduct that to get the maximum weight you can safely load on the trailer.
Properly loading the cargo and balancing the weight is also essential to safely towing a trailer. Uneven trailer weight can create major problems with steering, braking and sway control. As a general rule, you should load 60% of your cargo weight in the front half of your trailer and 40% in the rear half, unless your trailer manufacturer advises otherwise. Also balance the weight side-to-side. Keep the center of gravity low and over the trailer's axle for the best towing stability.
As you load the trailer, look at the trailer tongue relative to the ground. It should be parallel to the ground if it is balanced correctly. This will give you the best control of both your Ram Pickup and your trailer.
After your cargo is properly situated, secure it in place so that it cannot shift around. Use good quality towing straps or nylon rope to secure everything in place.
Driving Tips While Towing A Trailer
If you have never towed a trailer before, get some practice time in an open area before you hit the road. Here are some helpful hints as you proceed to your destination:
Take it slow:It takes longer to accelerate and to stop with a trailer and a full load. Leave plenty of space in front and behind.
Stay in control: If you feel the trailer start to sway or act strange, simply take our foot off the gas pedal. DO NOT brake or speed up.
Pass very carefully: Remember, you are slower, longer and less responsive when pulling a trailer. Use your signals and allow plenty of time and space to make your pass.
Look far ahead: Everything takes longer when you tow a trailer - braking, accelerating, and changing lanes included. Be sure to see the big picture up ahead to avoid problems.
Swing it wide: You will need to turn wider while pulling a trailer behind you. Check your mirrors frequently while turning to be sure you can clear any obstacles.
Watch the hills: Slow down as you approach a downhill stretch. If you have a manual transmission, select a lower gear on both downhill and uphill sections.
Park where it's easy to drive out: Find a flat, level surface where you can drive forward when it's time to leave. Avoid backing up when at all possible. Apply the parking brake and block the trailer wheels.
Your Safety Is Our Concern
We at White's Auto Mall CDJR in Hopkinsville are pleased to provide you with these towing tips with a pickup truck. Contact us with any questions about towing with your Ram - we want you to be safe!