I have a question about my Ram's stated towing capacity and what load I should actually put on it. I have a 2006 Ram 1500 SLT 4x4 quad cab regular bed, from what I could find the max towing capacity is 8500lbs. I do also have a factory towing package which means a class IV hitch and high capacity trans cooler if I'm not mistaken, and I have a brake controller. Now, I'm looking to haul my 30ft camper which has an unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) of 6670lbs (see attached picture of all weight values). I'm estimating the camper as it sits is probably about 6800-6900lbs. I know this is well under the stated towing capacity of the truck but should I be concerned about overworking the transmission if I'm hauling it long distances (several hundred miles)? The truck has no mechanical issues, shocks and struts are new, ball joints and tie rod end on one side are new, and I recently completely rebuilt the rear end from axle bearings to pinion bearings and everything in between. The only possible issue is that after rebuilding the rear end I have some gear noise when under light acceleration, although I set proper backlash on the ring gear and had a good gear contact pattern (I'm posting about that in a separate forum thread). Any input on the towing capacity is much appreciated. Thank you!

weight specs on my 30ft camper

 

the 2500 use the same engine and transmission but does have a different axle ratio. I be more concerned about the suspension. make sure you use a wd hitch. the wd hitch will also prevent irregular toe wear on the front tires from a ride height change. I towed a 6000lb enclosed trailer across Canada with my 06 1500; engine and trans were fine. I needed to adjust the wd hitch to control sway. 60mph was my max speed. I and had no problems. my 07 2500 does tow much better.

did you just do bearing or a new crown and pinion?

 

Thanks for the tip on the wd hitch, I hadn't thought of that but I will definitely look to get one. I did not do a new pinion or ring gear, but did all bearings and races, and limited slip clutch packs.