If you are researching the 2026 Ram 2500, you likely have a trailer, boat, or fleet of equipment that needs moving. In the heavy-duty segment, torque and chassis stability are what separate a daily driver from a true workhorse.
At Sidney CDJR, we know that “max towing” numbers can be confusing. The advertised 20,000 lbs capacity requires a specific configuration. This guide breaks down exactly what the 2026 Ram 2500 can handle so you can choose the right truck for your job in Shelby County.
Engine Specs: Cummins vs. Hemi
The 2026 Ram 2500 offers two primary powertrains. Your choice here dictates your towing ceiling.
6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6
This is the engine for serious haulers. The inline-6 design provides massive low-end torque, essential for getting heavy loads moving without straining the engine.
Horsepower: 370 hp
Torque: 850 lb-ft
Max Towing: Up to 19,990 lbs (when properly equipped)
Max Payload: ~3,150 lbs
Best For: heavy equipment trailers, large livestock trailers, and frequent long-distance hauling.
6.4L HEMI® V8 Engine
Standard on most trims, this gas engine is a payload monster. Because the gas engine is lighter than the diesel block, it actually offers higher payload capacity, even if the towing max is lower.
Horsepower: 410 hp (Best-in-Class standard gas horsepower)
Torque: 429 lb-ft
Max Towing: Up to 17,730 lbs
Max Payload: Up to 4,000 lbs
Best For: Slide-in truck campers, hauling heavy materials (gravel, brick) in the bed, and lighter 5th-wheel campers.
Towing Capacity Chart (By Configuration)
Not every Ram 2500 tows the same. Cab size, bed length, and axle ratio all play a role.
Configuration
Engine
Axle Ratio
Max Towing (lbs)
Regular Cab 8′ Box (4×2)
6.7L Cummins
3.73
19,980
Crew Cab 6’4″ Box (4×4)
6.7L Cummins
3.73
19,010
Mega Cab 6’4″ Box (4×4)
6.7L Cummins
3.73
15,680
Tradesman Crew Cab (4×4)
6.4L Hemi V8
4.10
14,930
Power Wagon (4×4)
6.4L Hemi V8
4.10
10,590
Note: The Power Wagon has a lower towing capacity due to its off-road compliant suspension.
Suspension Technology: Why Ram Tows Better
The secret to the Ram 2500’s towing confidence isn’t just the engine; it’s the Rear Link Coil Suspension.
Unlike competitors that use stiff leaf springs (which can cause a bouncy ride when empty), the Ram 2500 uses heavy-duty coil springs. This provides better articulation and a smoother ride without sacrificing towing stability.
For the ultimate towing setup, ask about the available Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension. This system includes a “Bed Lowering Mode” to make hooking up trailers easier and automatically levels the truck under load to keep your headlights pointed at the road, not the trees.
Towing Tech for 2026
Trailer Reverse Steering Control: Allows you to steer the trailer with a knob while the system controls the truck’s steering wheel.
Digital Rearview Mirror: A camera mode that lets you “see through” your trailer (requires compatible camera installation on the trailer).
Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring: Get real-time data on your trailer’s tires directly on your 12-inch cluster.
This vehicle is being built now. Contact dealer to reserve this vehicle and discuss options for locking in pricing and eligible incentives.
Vehicles identified as “Being Built” are pre-production vehicles that are not yet on the dealer’s lot or in transit. Pre-production computer-generated images may be shown and may not be representative of the vehicle listed.
MSRP for standard equipment plus optional equipment listed. Vehicle delivery date and other vehicle information, including pricing and incentives, are subject to change until the vehicle build is complete.
MSRP excludes additional charges including without limitation any delivery fees, government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance, filing and processing charges, emission testing charge, accessories and upfits.
