Can I Tow A Tractor Trailer With A Ram 3500 Cummins Diesel Engine  

Question:

Expert Reply:

It depends on how much the trailer weighs and how it connects. Your owner's manual states you may be able to tow up to 32,000 lbs and up to 6,000 lbs tongue weight with a factory fifth wheel prep package in the Ram. You still want to see what the fifth wheel hitch is rated for itself because you cannot exceed that weight.

You also want to make sure the kingpin is the correct size for your fifth wheel hitch. Some trailers designed for semis have a 3-1/2 inch king pin. Standard 5th wheel trailer hitches accept a 2 inch king pin. Some trailers sit lower that are meant to be towed with a semi so you want to make sure the kingpin reaches the fifth wheel hitch without hitting the bed rails. It is recommend to have at least 6 inches between the overhang of the fifth wheel trailer and the bed rails of the truck.

You may be able to compensate for that height by adjusting your fifth wheel hitch head. You also need the trailer to ride as level as possible. So finding the perfect balance of bed rail clearance and ride levelness can be a bit tricky on some setups. I have attached a photo that shows how much clearance you need when towing a fifth wheel with a truck.

The last thing to consider is the lighting on the trailer. Your Ram uses a standard vehicle 7 blade and the Tractor Trailer uses a 7 pole connector. You can use an adapter part # PK12727 to plug the 7-blade on the vehicle side into the trailer side 7-pole round pin connecter.

expert reply by: Heather A

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