What is the tow capacity of a 2001 dodge ram 1500 v6?
I need to haul a small horse trailer (bumper pull) with one horse. Total weight is probably 4000 pounds....Can the v6 1500 do it? I am considering purchasing a 2001 and need to know if it is safe and not too hard on the motor. Thanks!
My '07 1500 with the V6 had a tow capacity of 3,550 lbs. 2001 should be similar as I believe they were using the 3.7 engine in that year as well.
Not with my dime. Your lookin at trouble
You will be saying "I shoulda had a V8".
Not that it makes much difference but the 2001 has a 3.9L v6. It is maxed out at towing 3500 lbs. It's going to work hard, but it will pull it. You may want to consider getting a smaller horse.....or a v8. I have a 2008 5.7l HEMI mega cab. It pulls 8000 lbs like it's not even there. The Magnum v8 is a pretty good motor too. If you are going to have a full size truck, you need a full size motor. Never could figure out why they would want to put a v6 in a full size truck...
P.S.....DON'T BUMPER PULL 4000 LBS!!!!!
The term bumper pull in horse trailers is misleading. It is opposed to a gooseneck configuration. A weight equalization reece style frame hitch still is called a bumper pull with respect to horse trailers. There are various class hitches that can safely pull a smaller two horse trailer if it's attached to the frame and it is an equalizer hitch. Go by the manufacturer recommendations not what someone tells you. You most likely need a V8 because you will have to add the weight of the tack, saddle, and any water, hay, and passengers. That said , 4,000 lbs easily can become 5,000 or more but that is still a relatively smaller load. Generally you want to tow with a margin of reserve power so you probably should get a 3/4 ton truck with a V8. You may want a bigger trailer later anyway. If you must use a V6 check the axle ratio too. Some provide more torque hence greater towing capacity.
In addition most two horse trailers themselves generally weigh between 2300 to 2800 lbs by themselves. If you add two medium size horses at approximately 1,000lbs each you are already above your estimated load. There are a few expensive aluminum trailers as light as 1800 lbs but your money is better spent on a tow vehicle with a greater capacity. Truck manufacturers offer V6 engines because not everyone needs to tow anything and it allows for a lower priced new truck to be offered to those who couldn't otherwise afford it. Many people just use a pickup for mostly light or bulky items. It's simple economics. Truck towing capacities can vary greatly based on many factors such as any particular truck having a tow package. Make sure you know the exact specifications of your exact truck. Knowing the year and model and engine isn't even enough. Check your tires for their load rating as well. Cheaper tires can reduce your tow capacity too.
