How Does 4 Wheel Drive Effect Towing a Trailer with a 2001 Dodge Ram

Updated 06/01/2011 | Published 05/29/2011

Question:

will the four whell drive make any kind of difference when towing a trailer

asked by: Denise

Expert Reply:

In terms of a 2001 Dodge Ram, from what I could find the 4x4 had a slightly lower capacity than the 2 wheel drive models, within a few hundred pounds.

For example, according to Dodge, a 2001, 1500, 2 wheel drive, regular cab with a 5.2 liter engine has a trailer weight rating of 7,950 pounds, while the 4x4 with the same cab and engine is rated for 7,600 pounds. Your owners manual should have more detailed information regarding towing procedures and capacities for your specific truck.

For the Curt Trailer Hitch, # 14001, the hitch will fit on 2 wheel drive or 4 wheel drive versions of the truck. I have included a link to the installation instructions and a link showing a typical installation.

expert reply by: Michael H