When you’re hauling in Ohio, big trailers call for big power — and that starts with the right truck. The Ram 2500 diesel delivers impressive torque and easily accommodates both a fifth wheel and a work trailer. So whether you’re heading to Put-in-Bay with the family camper or hauling equipment across the Buckeye State, you can have confidence that it’ll handle heavy lifting effortlessly. We hope this guide, compiled by us at Bob Caldwell Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR), helps you better understand the towing capabilities of this impressive diesel.
Why the Ram 2500 Diesel Dominates Ohio’s Heavy-Duty Towing Market
According to Ram’s data, 70% of 2500 buyers choose diesel. This choice makes sense since 90% of these owners are using them as work trucks — hauling trailers and carrying heavy loads. Ram cleverly engineered the 2500’s strong torque to kick in early and stay consistent, which is crucial for Ohio’s rolling hills when you’re pulling maximum weight. The latest model showed several enhancements, including a 0-to-60 mph sprint time of 6.9 seconds, an improvement from the previous model’s 8 seconds. This may not sound like much until you’re merging onto I-270 during rush hour towing a heavy load.
Understanding Ram 2500 Diesel Towing Fundamentals
The Ram 2500 diesel’s towing capacity of 20,000 pounds, when properly equipped, demonstrates how its high torque rating of 1,075 lb-ft at a low rpm makes it the perfect workhorse. Its newly available 430-horsepower, high-output 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel engine is paired with the TorqueFlight eight-speed transmission. This configuration is further enhanced by a fuel pump that injects diesel into the cylinders at 30,000 psi, which is three times what most gas engines manage.
Ram diesel trucks feature a 3.42 rear axle ratio and a low first gear that makes moving heavy loads easy, especially with the Ram 2500’s payload capacity of up to 4,000 pounds. Eight gears ensure the engine stays in its optimal range, whether you’re climbing through Hocking Hills or cruising flat stretches of I-80. Enhanced airflow management and the high-pressure fuel system keep power consistent even during summer heat.
The variable-geometry turbo automatically adjusts based on load and altitude, while advanced glow plugs improve start-up times, even when it’s below zero. You get low vibration and minimal noise with the smarter valve train gears.
Fifth-Wheel Towing Excellence With Ram 2500
Fifth-wheel rigs push the limits of any truck, and the Ram 2500 diesel passes with room to spare. It features multiple camera angles, adjustable fish-eye mirrors, digital rearview setups, and blind-spot monitoring that accurately measures your trailer’s length, taking the guesswork out of tight spots. The diesel’s exhaust brake works in conjunction with Tow/Haul mode for smooth, controlled descents.
If you found backing into campground spots challenging, you won’t anymore. The trailer steering control allows you to guide the trailer by turning a knob while the truck steers itself. The REESE M5 fifth wheel hitch has a 32,000-pound capacity that uses Talon Jaw Technology to securely grip kingpins. It’s designed to be installed without drilling holes in your truck bed.
Typically, fifth wheels range in height from 11 feet, 6 inches to 13 feet, 5 inches, with 13 feet, 6 inches being the legal maximum in a majority of states. Weight distribution remains balanced even when crosswinds hit on I-90, allowing you to feel secure and confident instead of gripping the wheel in anxiety.
Ohio-Specific Towing Considerations
Before hitting the road, make sure you’re familiar with Ohio’s laws and standards for every type of trailer on the road. The maximum trailer height is 13.6 feet; the maximum width is 8.6 feet; and the maximum length is 65 feet. The gross vehicle weight must not exceed 80,000 pounds. All trailers built after January 1942 and weighing over 2,000 pounds when empty must have their own brakes. Ram’s integrated brake controller and monitoring systems keep you legal without stress.
Ram 2500 Trim Levels and Configuration Options
The 2025 Tradesman Crew Cab with the eight-foot box and gas engine has an MSRP starting at $49,385. Trim levels climb through the Big Horn, Lone Star, Power Wagon, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn, and the Limited. The diesel upgrade costs approximately $12,595 more, but it’s worth every penny. The Tradesman keeps things simple with black bumpers and badges, 17-inch steel wheels, LED fog lights, vinyl floors, a standard 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, keyless entry, and standard safety features.
The Big Horn adds style with chrome bumpers and 18-inch chrome-clad wheels and comfort with 10-way power-adjustment cloth seats and wireless phone connectivity, while the Laramie offers luxury with 20-inch aluminum wheels, premium LED headlamps, leather seating, a 14.4-inch touch screen, and a Harmon/Kardon audio system. The 14.5-inch display is available on all trim levels, while the 10.25-inch passenger screen is available on the higher trims. Safety comes standard across the board with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warnings, drowsy driver detection, traffic sign recognition, active lane management, and 360-degree cameras with trailer reverse guidance.
Experience the Ram 2500 Diesel Advantage at Bob Caldwell CDJR
At Bob Caldwell CDJR, we’ve advised countless Columbus drivers on how to effectively tow horse trailers, luxury fifth wheels, work equipment, and everything in between. For serious towing in Ohio, the Ram 2500 diesel truly stands out. Don’t settle for anything less when your work or weekend adventures require maximum capability. Contact us today on our website or at 614-888-2331 to schedule a test-drive or see your trade-in value. The right truck doesn’t just haul your load — it enhances your confidence.
FAQ: RAM 2500 Diesel Towing & Fifth-Wheel Basics for Ohio Drivers
Why do most RAM 2500 buyers choose the diesel engine?
About 70% of RAM 2500 buyers choose diesel because the diesel engine delivers the torque, durability, and towing confidence needed for work trailers and heavy fifth-wheels. Around 90% of diesel owners use their trucks for hauling.
How much can a RAM 2500 diesel tow?
When properly equipped, the RAM 2500 diesel can tow up to 20,000 pounds, thanks to its high-output Cummins engine and TorqueFlight eight-speed transmission.
What engine powers the RAM 2500 diesel?
The RAM 2500 diesel uses a 6.7-liter high-output Cummins turbo diesel engine that produces 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. It also features a high-pressure fuel system delivering diesel at 30,000 psi.
Is the RAM 2500 diesel good for Ohio’s hills and highways?
Yes. Its torque peaks early and stays consistent, helping drivers merge on I-270, climb hills in Hocking Hills, and maintain steady power across flat stretches of I-80.
Can the RAM 2500 diesel handle fifth-wheel trailers?
Absolutely. It offers multiple camera views, digital rearview systems, blind-spot monitoring for trailer length, and a REESE M5 fifth-wheel hitch with a 32,000-lb capacity and Talon Jaw Technology.
What Ohio towing laws should RAM 2500 owners know?
Ohio limits include:
- 13.6 ft max trailer height
- 8.6 ft max width
- 65 ft max length
- 80,000 lb GVW max
Trailers over 2,000 lbs (empty) must have their own brakes.
What features help the RAM 2500 tow more safely?
Key towing aids include trailer steering control, Tow/Haul mode, an exhaust brake, integrated trailer brake controller, advanced cooling, and an eight-gear transmission that keeps RPMs in an optimal range.
What trim levels are available on the 2025 RAM 2500?
Options include the Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Power Wagon, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited. The diesel upgrade adds about $12,595.
What technology options does the RAM 2500 offer?
Available tech includes a 14.4-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch passenger screen, Harmon/Kardon audio, wireless connectivity, and 360-degree cameras with trailer guidance.
Where can I test-drive a RAM 2500 diesel in Columbus, Ohio?
Visit Bob Caldwell CDJR or call 614-888-2331 to test-drive a diesel RAM 2500, check towing packages, or get help selecting the right configuration for your trailer.
Big white truck parked on road by Erik Mclean is licensed with Pexels License
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