2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 Towing Capacity: 10,450 lbs (Verified Specs)
The 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 has a maximum towing capacity of 10,450 lbs, a payload rating of 1,620 lbs, a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 15,000 lbs, and a maximum tongue weight of 1,045 lbs. It uses a Class V receiver hitch when properly equipped.
All 2015 trims compared
| Trim | Max Tow | Payload | GCWR | Tongue | Hitch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tradesman 3.6L Pentastar V6 4x2 | 7,610 lbs | 1,720 lbs | 12,000 lbs | 761 lbs | IV |
| Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 | 10,450 lbs | 1,620 lbs | 15,000 lbs | 1,045 lbs | V |
| Laramie 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 4x4 | 9,210 lbs | 1,390 lbs | 14,000 lbs | 921 lbs | IV |
What can the 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 tow?
With its 10,450 lbs max tow rating, the 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 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)
- Large travel trailers up to 30 feet (7,500–9,000 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 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 you need: a Class V 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 1500
- Loading the trailer past the manufacturer's max tow rating without verifying GCWR margin
- Ignoring tongue weight: keep it 10–15% of total trailer weight or the trailer will sway
- Skipping a brake controller on trailers over 3,000 lbs — most US states require trailer brakes above this weight
- Forgetting to redistribute payload from cargo when carrying passengers; payload includes occupants
- Running stock tires beyond their D/E load rating when towing near the max — upgrade if towing weekly
Compare with similar vehicles
Frequently asked questions
What is the towing capacity of a 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4? ▾
The 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 has a maximum towing capacity of 10,450 lbs when properly equipped with the manufacturer's tow package.
Can a 2015 Ram 1500 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 10,450 lbs rating. Verify your specific trailer's GVWR and stay under 80% of max tow for comfortable towing.
Can a 2015 Ram 1500 tow a fifth-wheel? ▾
Not recommended. Most fifth-wheels start at 8,000 lbs and exceed this trim's 10,450 lbs capacity. Step up to a heavy-duty model.
What hitch class does the 2015 Ram 1500 use? ▾
The 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 is rated for a Class V receiver hitch.
What is the payload of the 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4? ▾
Payload is rated at 1,620 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 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 is rated at 15,000 lbs. Exceeding GCWR is a leading cause of brake and transmission failure.
Do I need a weight-distribution hitch? ▾
For trailers above 5,000 lbs, Ford/GM/Ram/Toyota all recommend a weight-distribution hitch. It transfers tongue weight back across both axles, restoring proper steering and braking.
Do I need a brake controller for this trim? ▾
Yes, when towing a trailer over 3,000 lbs (most US states legally require trailer brakes above this weight). The 2015 Ram 1500 typically supports a proportional integrated brake controller — confirm trim availability.
What is tongue weight on the 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4? ▾
Maximum tongue weight is 1,045 lbs (industry-standard 10% of max tow rating). Aim for 10–15% of actual trailer weight to avoid sway.
Is the 2015 Ram 1500 better than its competitors for towing? ▾
Within its capacity bracket, the 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn 5.7L HEMI V8 4x4 is competitive at 10,450 lbs. See the "Compare with" section below for direct comparisons against same-class alternatives.