Overview
The 2009 Ram 3500 is a titan in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment, engineered for those who demand exceptional towing and hauling capabilities. Competing with rivals like the Ford F-350 and Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD, this truck is a favorite among contractors, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need to move substantial loads. With a maximum towing capacity of approximately 17,000 lbs when properly equipped, the 2009 Ram 3500 can handle large trailers, boats, RVs, and heavy equipment with ease. Its standout feature is the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine, which delivers robust power and torque for demanding tasks.
In the heavy-duty truck market, the Ram 3500 holds its own against competitors. The Ford F-350 offers a slightly higher towing capacity of up to 18,800 lbs with 5th-wheel towing, while the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD reaches up to 16,500 lbs. The Ram 3500’s 17,000-lb capacity strikes a balance, making it a versatile choice for both professional and recreational towing. This guide explores the towing capacities across different configurations, factors affecting performance, payload considerations, real-world insights, and recommendations for optimal towing setups.
Towing Capacity by Configuration
The towing capacity of the 2009 Ram 3500 varies based on engine type, drivetrain, cab style, bed length, axle ratio, and whether the towing package is equipped. The table below, sourced from [TowEngine.com]([invalid url, do not cite]), outlines the towing capacities for key configurations with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine:
| Cab Configuration | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Axle Ratio | Max. Towing Capacity (lbs) | Max. Payload Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | 4×2 | 4.10 | 16,150 | 4,820 |
| Regular Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | 4×4 | 4.10 | 16,800 | 5,130 |
| Regular Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Manual | 4×2 | 3.73 | 14,100 | 4,740 |
| Regular Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Manual | 4×4 | 3.73 | 13,700 | 5,070 |
| Quad Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | SB 4×2 | 4.10 | 16,350 | 3,620 |
| Quad Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | LB 4×2 | 4.10 | 16,250 | 4,480 |
| Quad Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | SB 4×4 | 4.10 | 17,000 | 3,230 |
| Quad Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | LB 4×4 | 4.10 | 16,900 | 4,850 |
| Mega Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | 4×2 | 4.10 | 16,050 | 3,310 |
| Mega Cab | 6.7L Cummins | Automatic | 4×4 | 4.10 | 16,700 | 2,970 |
Key Observations
- The maximum towing capacity of 17,000 lbs is achieved with the Quad Cab, Short Bed, 4×4, 6.7L Cummins diesel, automatic transmission, and 4.10:1 axle ratio.
- The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, available on select trims, offers towing capacities ranging from 9,700 to 12,300 lbs, suitable for lighter towing tasks.
- 2WD configurations generally provide slightly higher towing capacities than 4WD due to lower vehicle weight.
- Single Rear Wheel (SRW) and Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) setups affect stability, with DRW models offering better handling for heavy loads.
- The towing package is essential for achieving the highest capacities, including a heavy-duty radiator, transmission cooler, and trailer wiring harness.
These figures assume proper equipment, no additional payload in the bed, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Always consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a Ram dealer to confirm specific towing capacities.
What Affects Towing Capacity?
Several factors determine the towing performance of the 2009 Ram 3500:
Engine Specs
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Produces 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, making it the top choice for heavy towing. Its high torque output ensures strong pulling power, as noted by [Stellantis Media]([invalid url, do not cite]).
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Delivers 355 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, suitable for lighter towing but less capable for heavy loads.
Transmission and Axle Ratio
- Transmission: The 6-speed automatic transmission is standard for diesel models, offering smooth shifts and reliable performance under load. A 6-speed manual is also available but results in lower towing capacities (e.g., 14,300 lbs for Quad Cab 4×2).
- Axle Ratios: Options include 3.42:1, 3.73:1, and 4.10:1. Lower ratios (e.g., 4.10:1) provide better low-end torque, enhancing towing performance, especially for heavy loads or hilly terrain.
Towing Package and Tow/Haul Mode
- Towing Package: Includes a heavy-duty radiator, transmission oil cooler, trailer wiring harness (4-pin/7-pin connectors), and Class IV hitch receiver. These components are critical for achieving maximum towing capacities.
- Tow/Haul Mode: Adjusts transmission shift points to reduce gear hunting and improve power delivery when towing, as highlighted by [Edmunds]([invalid url, do not cite]).
Suspension, Chassis, and Braking System
- Suspension: The heavy-duty suspension is designed to handle the stress of towing large trailers, with Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) models offering enhanced stability.
- Chassis: The robust body-on-frame construction provides durability for heavy-duty tasks.
- Braking System: Equipped with 4-wheel disc antilock brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power. Trailers over 1,500–2,000 lbs should have their own brakes to enhance safety.
Smart Towing Tech
The 2009 Ram 3500 lacks advanced towing technologies like Pro Trailer Backup Assist or trailer sway control, which are common in newer models. However, the tow/haul mode serves as a basic smart towing feature, optimizing transmission performance. Drivers must rely on proper equipment and techniques to manage trailer sway and backing.
Exceeding the recommended towing capacity or neglecting these factors can strain the truck’s components, leading to unsafe conditions or mechanical failure. Proper setup, including a weight-distributing hitch and trailer brakes, is essential for safe towing.
Payload Capacity and Its Impact
Payload capacity is the maximum weight the truck can carry in its bed, including passengers, cargo, and the trailer’s tongue weight. For the 2009 Ram 3500, payload capacity ranges from 2,900 to 5,130 lbs, depending on the configuration, as per [TowEngine.com]([invalid url, do not cite]).
The trailer’s tongue weight, typically 10–15% of the trailer’s total weight, reduces the available payload capacity. For example:
- A 10,000-lb trailer with a 10% tongue weight (1,000 lbs) reduces the payload capacity by 1,000 lbs. If the truck’s payload capacity is 5,130 lbs, only 4,130 lbs remain for passengers and cargo.
- The total weight (truck + payload + trailer) must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), which ranges from 17,000 to 24,000 lbs for the 2009 Ram 3500, depending on the configuration.
Exceeding the payload capacity or GCWR can compromise handling, braking, and vehicle stability, increasing the risk of accidents. Owners must carefully calculate weights to stay within safe limits.
Insights From the Web and Social Media
Real-world experiences from owners and enthusiasts provide valuable context for the 2009 Ram 3500’s towing performance, gathered from forums like Cummins Forum and The Hull Truth:
- Cummins Forum (2011): An owner considered towing a 38-foot Cyclone trailer (13,500 lbs dry, 15,000–16,000 lbs loaded) with a 2009 Ram 3500 4WD SRW with 4.10 gears. Forum members confirmed the truck’s 17,000-lb capacity could handle it, but recommended upgrading to 18-inch or 19.5-inch wheels for better load handling due to the 3,500-lb pin weight. They noted the SRW setup might be close to its limits ([Cummins Forum]([invalid url, do not cite])).
- The Hull Truth (2023): While discussing a 2019 Ram 3500, an owner towed a 10,000-lb boat and trailer, achieving 15.5 mpg loaded and 21.5 mpg unloaded. The truck handled the load with ease, suggesting the 2009 model’s similar Cummins engine would perform comparably for similar loads ([The Hull Truth]([invalid url, do not cite])).
- DodgeForum.com (2010): An owner towing a 3-horse trailer (approximately 8,000 lbs) with a 2009 Ram 1500 noted that older trucks often towed similar loads without issue, implying the 3500’s higher capacity would handle such tasks effortlessly ([DodgeForum.com]([invalid url, do not cite])).
Common Praises
- Owners praise the 6.7L Cummins engine for its power and reliability when towing heavy loads.
- The tow/haul mode is appreciated for maintaining transmission performance during towing.
- The truck’s stability and braking are noted as strengths, especially with DRW setups.
Common Criticisms
- Single Rear Wheel (SRW) setups may struggle with stability when towing near the maximum capacity, particularly with high pin weights.
- Fuel economy drops significantly when towing heavy loads, often to 10–15 mpg.
- The lack of advanced towing tech like trailer sway control requires careful driving and proper equipment.
These insights emphasize the importance of matching the truck’s configuration to the towing task and using appropriate equipment for safety.
Best Configurations for Towing
To maximize the 2009 Ram 3500’s towing capabilities, consider the following recommendations:
Heavy-Duty Towing (Up to 17,000 lbs)
- Configuration: Quad Cab, Short Bed, 4×4, 6.7L Cummins diesel, automatic transmission, 4.10:1 axle ratio, towing package.
- Towing Capacity: 17,000 lbs.
- Why: The 6.7L Cummins engine provides 350 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic for smooth power delivery. The 4×4 drivetrain ensures traction in varied conditions, and the towing package enhances cooling and electrical support.
Light-Duty Towing (Up to 12,300 lbs)
- Configuration: Regular Cab, 2WD, 5.7L HEMI V8, automatic transmission, 3.73:1 axle ratio, towing package.
- Towing Capacity: 12,300 lbs.
- Why: The 5.7L HEMI V8 is sufficient for smaller trailers, such as utility trailers or lightweight RVs, offering better fuel efficiency for occasional towing.
Essential Towing Package Options
- Heavy-duty radiator and transmission cooler: Prevents overheating during extended towing.
- Trailer wiring harness: Includes 4-pin/7-pin connectors for trailer lights and brakes.
- Class IV hitch receiver: Supports heavier trailers with a 2-inch receiver.
- Weight-distributing hitch: Recommended for loads over 5,000 lbs to balance weight and reduce sway.
- Trailer brake controller: Essential for trailers with electric brakes, improving stopping power for loads over 1,500–2,000 lbs.
Safety Tips
- Verify Towing Capacity: Check the owner’s manual or a Ram dealer for your vehicle’s specific limits, as capacities vary by configuration.
- Proper Trailer Loading: Ensure 10–15% of the trailer’s weight is on the tongue to prevent sway. Use a weight-distributing hitch for heavier loads.
- Use Trailer Brakes: Required for trailers over 1,500–2,000 lbs (check local regulations) to enhance stopping power.
- Monitor Payload: Account for tongue weight and avoid exceeding the GCWR to maintain stability.
- Maintain Vehicle Systems: Regularly inspect brakes, suspension, and cooling systems to ensure reliability during towing.
- Drive Cautiously: Allow extra stopping distance, avoid sudden maneuvers, and use tow/haul mode to optimize transmission performance.
Conclusion
The 2009 Ram 3500 is a formidable heavy-duty pickup truck with a maximum towing capacity of 17,000 lbs when equipped with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, automatic transmission, and towing package. Its robust engine, heavy-duty suspension, and tow/haul mode make it an excellent choice for serious towing tasks, such as hauling large RVs, boats, or construction equipment. While it lacks advanced towing technologies like trailer sway control, proper equipment and driving techniques ensure safe and efficient performance.
Compared to competitors like the Ford F-350 (up to 18,800 lbs) and Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD (up to 16,500 lbs), the Ram 3500 offers a competitive balance of power and reliability. For owners needing to tow heavy loads regularly, the 6.7L Cummins diesel in a 2WD or 4WD Quad Cab is the optimal choice. For lighter tasks, the 5.7L HEMI V8 provides sufficient capability. Always adhere to rated capacities, use appropriate towing equipment, and consult the owner’s manual to ensure safe towing.
Citations:
- [TowEngine.com – 2009 Dodge RAM 3500 Towing Capacity]([invalid url, do not cite])
- [Stellantis Media – 2009 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty]([invalid url, do not cite])
- [Edmunds – 2009 Dodge Ram Pickup 3500 Specs]([invalid url, do not cite])
- [Cars.com – 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Specs]([invalid url, do not cite])
- [Cummins Forum – 2009 3500 4WD SRW Towing Capacity]([invalid url, do not cite])
- [The Hull Truth – 2019 Ram 3500 4X4 Real World Towing]([invalid url, do not cite])
- [DodgeForum.com – Real World Towing Capacity]([invalid url, do not cite])
HIGH OUTPUT MEGACAB RAM 3500 TOW RIG!(is the 6.7 Cummins a right buy?)
FAQ
How much can a 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 tow?
| Max Towing Capacity | 16,500 lbs. |
|---|---|
| Max Payload Capacity | 4,780 lbs. |
What are the specs of the 2009 Dodge 3500 6.7 Cummins?
| Length | 229.7 |
|---|---|
| Engine Name | 6.7L V8, Optional 5.9L inline 6-cylinder, Optional 6.7L inline 6-cylinder |
| Trim | SXT 2WD Regular Cab |
| Horsepower | 350, Optional 325@3013, Optional 2900 |
| Body Style | Truck |
How much weight can I pull with my Dodge Ram 3500?The Ram 3500 as a dually truck can tow a maximum of 37,090 pounds when properly equipped, meaning you’ll always have incredible power and capability.
Was 2009 a good year for Dodge Ram?Among the 361 owners who provided feedback on the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 93% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle’s comfort and performance to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
Reference
http://www.rambodybuilder.com/2009/docs/dr/mlup3500.pdf
https://www.edmunds.com/dodge/ram-pickup-3500/2009/features-specs/
