Compressed natural gas
engines not for towing |
Vehicles equipped with compressed natural gas engines should not be used for towing. |
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Exhaust brake or
"Jake Brake" requirement |
An exhaust brake or "Jake Brake" is recommended for Dodge 3500 Pickup and Chassis Cab models pulling a trailer weight of 10,000 pounds or more. |
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Fifth-wheel hitch
requirement |
DaimlerChrysler Corporation requires that for warranty coverage, vehicles towing trailers with a weight rating of 12,000 pounds or more must be equipped with a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. |
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| Listed GTW ratings |
The GTW ratings listed in this guide are intended to provide
acceptable performance for normal conditions of temperature,
grade, and altitude. Extreme conditions will require selection
of a higher axle ratio and/or a higher powered engine. Dodge
trucks equipped with Cummins Intercooled Turbo Diesel engines
will have a minimal power loss at high altitude. Maximum trailer
weight ratings include cargo and fluids in the trailer, plus
150 pounds for the tow vehicle driver. These ratings must be
decreased by the weight of any optional equipment, trailer hitch,
cargo in the tow vehicle, and passengers other than the driver.
To determine the GTW, subtract the curb weight and 150 pounds
(allowance for the driver) from the GCWR. A maximum engine cooling
option may be required to achieve the maximum trailer weight
rating and GCWR. |
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| Payload |
The sum resulting from subtraction of the curb weight from the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). |
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Synthetic axle lubricant
with Trailer Tow Group |
Tow vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Group option should use synthetic axle lubricant, which is standard on all 2003 Ram Pickup Trucks.
For all trailer towing or heavy duty applications replace the factory fill rear axle lubricant with an
SAE 75W-140 synthetic gear lubricant. Mopar Synthetic Gear Lubricant (MS-8985) is of this type.
Perform the maintenance listed in Section 8 of this manual.
When towing a trailer, never exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
Caution:
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a loss of control, poor performance or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspension, body structure or tires.
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| Tongue weight |
To determine the maximum trailer tongue weight, multiply the gross trailer weight (GTW) by 15 percent. The ideal tongue weight should be about 13 percent. For maximum king pin weight on fifth-wheel applications, multiply the GTW by 25 percent. |
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| Engine break-in procedures |
Caution:
-During the first 805 km (500 miles) your new vehicle is driven, do not tow a trailer. Doing so may damage your vehicle.
-Limit your speed to (80 km/h) 50 mph during the first 805 km (500 miles) of towing.
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| Frame Modification |
DaimlerChrysler Corporation doesn't recommend any modifications
or alterations to the frame assembly. Modifications or alterations
(i.e. hole drilling, welding, etc.) to the frame assembly are
the responsibility of persons performing these modifications
or alterations. Anyone altering the frame must assure complete
responsibility for assembly, performance, reliability and compliance
of applicable FMVSS requirements. See you local DaimlerChrysler
dealer for details.
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