Can the 2026 Ram 1500 tow my boat and camper around St. John, IN?

James CDJR of Cedar Lake - Can the 2026 Ram 1500 tow my boat and camper around St. John, IN?

Towing plans start with real numbers and finish with smart setup, and that is exactly where Ram’s latest half-ton excels. With up to 11,610 pounds of available towing and up to 2,360 pounds of maximum available payload, the 2026 model is built to handle a fishing boat, pop-up, or mid-size camper with confidence. The key is matching the right engine and axle ratio to the weight you are towing and the roads you travel most—think lake runs, campground grades, and windy stretches on US-41.

Start with engines. The newly available 5.7L HEMI® V8 brings the classic Ram character many owners love, while two available 3.0L Hurricane engines push available output up to 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque for confident merges and long grades. The 3.6L Pentastar® V6 remains a smart daily driver choice, with lighter loads and consistent composure. Pair your engine with available 4x4 if you launch on slick ramps or camp on gravel. Inside, Uconnect® technology and available camera views help during hookup and pre-trip checks, and an available driver display puts trailering data where it is easy to see.

If you are planning a season of weekend towing around the area, think about approaching your setup in steps. It keeps decisions clear and ensures you get capability and control without overbuying equipment you will not use.

• Define your trailer weights: Know dry weight, typical cargo, and tongue weight so we can validate your real-world tow rating.
• Select the right powertrain: Choose the available 5.7L HEMI® V8 or one of the available 3.0L Hurricane engines if you regularly tackle hills or heavier loads.
• Equip trailer aids: Ask about available cameras, hitch alignment, trailer tire pressure monitoring, and integrated trailer brake control.
• Confirm axle ratio and hitch: We will match axle ratio and hitch class to your trailer for smooth, stable tracking.
• Practice your routine: Do a shakedown run—check connections, mirrors, and trailer brakes before heading out for a full day on the water.

Once your build is selected, the last step is the one owners appreciate most: a practice hookup and a short tow. With available technology—like camera views to confirm your coupler and chains—and the broad torque curve of the available engines, that first trip feels easier than you expect. The available towing tech is about more than convenience; it helps you get consistent with your routine, which is the backbone of safe, low-stress towing week after week.

We are happy to walk you through the process at the store and talk through best practices for launching, campsite parking, and pre-trip inspection. With the right configuration and a few smart habits, the truck’s engineering does the heavy lifting, while you enjoy the day. Visit us to compare powertrains and trailering tools in person—James CDJR of Cedar Lake is here to help, serving Dyer, St. John, and Highland with friendly, knowledgeable guidance on builds and accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for my setup?

If your loaded trailer weight approaches your truck’s tongue-weight limit or you notice front-end lift under load, a properly sized weight-distributing hitch can improve stability and braking feel. We will review your trailer specs and help you choose hardware that matches your configuration.

Request more 2026 RAM 1500 information