2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 Towing Capacity: 17,580 lbs (Verified Specs)
The 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 has a maximum towing capacity of 17,580 lbs, a payload rating of 3,160 lbs, a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 22,000 lbs, and a maximum tongue weight of 1,758 lbs. It uses a Class V receiver hitch when properly equipped.
All 2021 trims compared
| Trim | Max Tow | Payload | GCWR | Tongue | Hitch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tradesman 6.4L HEMI V8 4x2 | 17,580 lbs | 3,990 lbs | 22,000 lbs | 1,758 lbs | V |
| Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 | 17,580 lbs | 3,160 lbs | 22,000 lbs | 1,758 lbs | V |
| Laramie 6.7L Cummins HO Diesel 4x4 Max Tow | 19,680 lbs | 3,160 lbs | 25,000 lbs | 1,968 lbs | V |
What can the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 tow?
With its 17,580 lbs max tow rating, the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L 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)
- Lightweight fifth-wheels (8,000–11,500 lbs)
- Mid-size fifth-wheels (12,000–14,500 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 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L 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 2500
- 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 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4? ▾
The 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 has a maximum towing capacity of 17,580 lbs when properly equipped with the manufacturer's tow package.
Can a 2021 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 17,580 lbs rating. Verify your specific trailer's GVWR and stay under 80% of max tow for comfortable towing.
Can a 2021 Ram 2500 tow a fifth-wheel? ▾
Yes, a lightweight fifth-wheel (8,000–11,500 lbs) is within this trim's tow rating. Note fifth-wheels also require a special in-bed hitch — confirm your model has a prepped bed.
What hitch class does the 2021 Ram 2500 use? ▾
The 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 is rated for a Class V receiver hitch.
What is the payload of the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4? ▾
Payload is rated at 3,160 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 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 is rated at 22,000 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 2021 Ram 2500 typically supports a proportional integrated brake controller — confirm trim availability.
What is tongue weight on the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4? ▾
Maximum tongue weight is 1,758 lbs (industry-standard 10% of max tow rating). Aim for 10–15% of actual trailer weight to avoid sway.
Is the 2021 Ram 2500 better than its competitors for towing? ▾
Within its capacity bracket, the 2021 Ram 2500 Big Horn 6.4L HEMI V8 4x4 is competitive at 17,580 lbs. See the "Compare with" section below for direct comparisons against same-class alternatives.