2013 Ram 2500 Base Towing Capacity: 9,100 lbs (Verified Specs)

The 2013 Ram 2500 Base has a maximum towing capacity of 9,100 lbs, a payload rating of 7,218 lbs, a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 11,000 lbs, and a maximum tongue weight of N/A. It uses a Class IV receiver hitch when properly equipped.

All 2013 trims compared

Trim Max Tow Payload GCWR Tongue Hitch
Base 9,100 lbs 7,218 lbs 11,000 lbs N/A IV

What can the 2013 Ram 2500 Base tow?

With its 9,100 lbs max tow rating, the 2013 Ram 2500 Base can pull these typical trailer types when properly equipped:

  • Pop-up tent campers (typically 1,000–3,000 lbs)
  • Small travel trailers up to 22 feet (typical dry weight 3,500–4,500 lbs)
  • Mid-size travel trailers up to 26 feet (5,000–7,000 lbs)
  • Single-jet-ski / two-PWC trailers (1,500–2,500 lbs)
  • Boats up to 22 ft on a trailer (4,000–5,500 lbs total)
  • Boats up to 28 ft (7,500–8,500 lbs total)
  • Two-horse straight-load horse trailers (5,500–6,800 lbs loaded)

Required equipment

For maximum capacity towing on the 2013 Ram 2500 Base you need: a Class IV receiver hitch, a proportional brake controller (legally required on trailers over 3,000 lbs in most US states), trailer wiring harness, and — for trailers above 5,000 lbs — a weight-distribution hitch.

5 common towing mistakes with the Ram 2500

  1. Loading the trailer past the manufacturer's max tow rating without verifying GCWR margin
  2. Ignoring tongue weight: keep it 10–15% of total trailer weight or the trailer will sway
  3. Skipping a brake controller on trailers over 3,000 lbs — most US states require trailer brakes above this weight
  4. Forgetting to redistribute payload from cargo when carrying passengers; payload includes occupants
  5. Running stock tires beyond their D/E load rating when towing near the max — upgrade if towing weekly

Compare with similar vehicles

2015
toyota tundra
9,800 lbs
2016
toyota tundra
9,800 lbs
2017
toyota tundra
9,800 lbs

Frequently asked questions

What is the towing capacity of a 2013 Ram 2500 Base? ▾

The 2013 Ram 2500 Base has a maximum towing capacity of 9,100 lbs when properly equipped with the manufacturer's tow package.

Can a 2013 Ram 2500 tow a 30-foot travel trailer? ▾

Yes — a 30-foot travel trailer typically weighs 7,500–9,000 lbs loaded, which is within this trim's 9,100 lbs rating. Verify your specific trailer's GVWR and stay under 80% of max tow for comfortable towing.

Can a 2013 Ram 2500 tow a fifth-wheel? ▾

Not recommended. Most fifth-wheels start at 8,000 lbs and exceed this trim's 9,100 lbs capacity. Step up to a heavy-duty model.

What hitch class does the 2013 Ram 2500 use? ▾

The 2013 Ram 2500 Base is rated for a Class IV receiver hitch.

What is the payload of the 2013 Ram 2500 Base? ▾

Payload is rated at 7,218 lbs. Remember payload includes passengers, cargo, hitch tongue weight, and any aftermarket equipment.

What is GCWR and why does it matter? ▾

Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the max combined weight of the loaded vehicle and trailer. The 2013 Ram 2500 Base is rated at 11,000 lbs. Exceeding GCWR is a leading cause of brake and transmission failure.

Related

Specs sourced from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ram_2500 and verified against manufacturer documentation.