RAM 2500 (2019 year). Instruction — part 26

STARTING AND OPERATING

413

Tongue Weight (TW)

The tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the

hitch ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of the

load on your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area

The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the

maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control

The trailer sway control can be a mechanical telescoping link

that can be installed between the hitch receiver and the

trailer tongue that typically provides adjustable friction asso-

ciated with the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted

trailer swaying motions while traveling.
If equipped, the electronic Trailer Sway Control (TSC) recog-

nizes a swaying trailer and automatically applies individual

wheel brakes and/or reduces engine power to attempt to

eliminate the trailer sway.

Weight-Carrying Hitch

A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,

just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some other

connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are the

most popular on the market today and they are commonly

used to tow small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch

A weight-distributing system works by applying leverage

through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for

heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow

vehicle's front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in

accordance with the manufacturer's directions, it provides

for a more level ride, offering more consistent steering and

brake control, thereby enhancing towing safety. The addi-

tion of a friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens sway

caused by traffic and crosswinds and contributes positively

to tow vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway control and

a weight distributing (load equalizing) hitch are recom-

mended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and may be

required depending on vehicle and trailer configuration/

loading to comply with GAWR requirements.

5

414 STARTING AND OPERATING

Without Weight-Distributing Hitch (Incorrect)

With Weight-Distributing Hitch (Correct)

WARNING!

• An improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch

system may reduce handling, stability and braking

performance and could result in a collision.

• Weight distributing systems may not be compatible

with surge brake couplers. Consult with your hitch and

trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational

Vehicle dealer for additional information.

STARTING AND OPERATING

415

Improper Adjustment Of Weight-Distributing Hitch

(Incorrect)

Recommended Distribution Hitch Adjustment
Towing With 2500/3500 Air Suspension
1. Position the truck to be ready to connect to the trailer (do

not connect the trailer).

NOTE:

Normal Ride Height (NRH) or Alternate Trailer Height

(ATH) can be used. The vehicle must remain in the engine

running position while attaching a trailer for proper leveling

of the air suspension system. It may not be possible to enter

Alternate Trailer Height (ATH) while lightly loaded.
2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening

on the fender to ground, this is height H1.

3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distri-

bution bars connected.

4. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening

on the fender to ground, this is height H2.

5. Install and adjust the tension in the weight distributing

bars per the manufacturers’ recommendations so that the

height of the front fender is approximately (H2-H1)/

2+H1 (about 1/2 the difference between H2 and H1 above

normal ride height [H1]).

5

416 STARTING AND OPERATING

6. Perform a visual inspection of the trailer and weight

distributing hitch to confirm manufacturers’ recommen-

dations have been met.

NOTE:

For all towing conditions, we recommend towing with tow

haul mode engaged.
Towing With All Other 2500/3500 (Non-Air Suspension)
1. Position the truck to be ready to connect to the trailer (do

not connect the trailer).

2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening

on the fender to ground, this is height H1.

3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distri-

bution bars connected.

4. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening

on the fender to ground, this is height H2.

5. Install and adjust the tension in the weight distributing

bars per the manufacturers’ recommendations so that the

height of the front fender is approximately (H2-H1)/

2+H1 (about 1/2 the difference between H2 and H1 above

normal ride height [H1]).

6. Perform a visual inspection of the trailer and weight

distributing hitch to confirm manufacturers’ recommen-

dations have been met.

NOTE:

For all towing conditions, we recommend towing with tow

haul mode engaged.

Measurement Example

Example 2500/3500

Height (mm)

H1

1030

H2

1058

H2-H1

28

(H2-H1)/2

14

(H2-H1)/2 + H1

1044

Measurement Example

Example 2500/3500

Height (mm)

H1

1030

H2

1058

H2-H1

28

(H2-H1)/2

14

(H2-H1)/2 + H1

1044

STARTING AND OPERATING

417

Fifth-Wheel Hitch

The fifth-wheel hitch is a special high platform with a

coupling that mounts over the rear axle of the tow vehicle in

the truck bed. It connects a vehicle and fifth-wheel trailer

with a coupling king pin.
Your truck may be equipped with a 5th wheel hitch option.

Refer to the separately provided 5th wheel hitch safety, care,

assembly, and operating instructions.

Gooseneck Hitch
The gooseneck hitch employs a pivoted coupling arm which

attaches to a ball mounted in the bed of a pickup truck. The

coupling arm connects to the hitch mounted over the rear

axle in the truck bed.

Trailer Hitch Type and Maximum Trailer Weight

The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight a

given factory equipped trailer hitch type can tow and should

be used to assist you in selecting the correct trailer hitch for

your intended towing condition.

All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.

Trailer Hitch Type and Maximum Trailer Weight

Hitch Type

Max. Trailer Weight / Max. Tongue Weight

Class V - 2500 Models

20,000 lbs (9,071 kg) / 2000 lbs (907 kg)

Class V - 3500 Models

23,000 lbs (10,432 kg) / 2300 lbs (1043 kg)

Fifth Wheel - 2500 Models

25,000 lbs (11,339 kg) / 2500 lbs (1,133 kg)

Fifth Wheel - 3500 Models

30,000 lbs (13,607 kg) / 3000 lbs (1,360 kg)

Gooseneck - 2500 Models

20,000 lbs (9,071 kg) / 2000 lbs (907 kg)

Gooseneck - 3500 Models

35,000 lbs (15,875 kg) / 3500 lbs (1,587 kg)

Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)

towable for your given drivetrain.

5

418 STARTING AND OPERATING

(Continued)

Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight
Ratings)

NOTE:

For trailer towing information (maximum trailer weight

ratings) refer to the following website addresses:
•

ramtrucks.com/en/towing_guide/

•

ramtruck.ca (Canada)

•

rambodybuilder.com

Trailer And Tongue Weight

Weight Distribution

Consider the following items when computing the weight on

the rear axle of the vehicle:
• The tongue weight of the trailer.
• The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in

or on your vehicle.

• The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:

Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds to

the load on your vehicle. Also, additional factory-installed

options or dealer-installed options must be considered as

part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer to the “Tire And

Loading Information” placard for the maximum combined

weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.

Towing Requirements

To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain

components, the following guidelines are recommended.

CAUTION!

• Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles

(805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle or

other parts could be damaged.

STARTING AND OPERATING

419

(Continued)

Perform the maintenance listed in the “Scheduled

Servicing”. Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in “Servicing

And Maintenance” for the proper maintenance intervals.

When towing a trailer, never exceed the GAWR or GCWR

ratings.

• Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a trailer is

towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not

make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and

other parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.

WARNING!

• Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer and

will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo that

is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can occur that

may be difficult for the driver to control. You could lose

control of your vehicle and have a collision.

• 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, chassis

structure or tires.

CAUTION! (Continued)

• Safety chains must always be used between your

vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the

hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains

under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for

turning corners.

• Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade.

When parking, apply the parking brake on the tow

vehicle. Put the tow vehicle transmission in PARK. For

four-wheel drive vehicles, make sure the transfer case

is not in NEUTRAL. Always, block or "chock" the

trailer wheels.

• GCWR must not be exceeded.
• Total weight must be distributed between the tow

vehicle and the trailer such that the following four

ratings are not exceeded:
1. GVWR
2. GTW
3. GAWR
4. Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized.

WARNING! (Continued)

5

420 STARTING AND OPERATING

Towing Requirements — Tires
• Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact spare

tire.

• Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing

while using a full size spare tire.

• Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe and

satisfactory operation of your vehicle. Refer to “Tires” in

“Servicing And Maintenance” for proper tire inflation

procedures.

• Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures

before trailer usage.

• Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage before

towing a trailer. Refer to “Tires” in “Servicing And Main-

tenance” for the proper inspection procedure.

• When replacing tires, refer to “Tires” in “Servicing And

Maintenance” for the proper tire replacement procedures.

Replacing tires with a higher load carrying capacity will

not increase the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
• Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or vacuum

system of your vehicle with that of the trailer. This could

cause inadequate braking and possible personal injury.

• An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is

required when towing a trailer with electronically actu-

ated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a

hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic brake

controller is not required.

• Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000 lbs

(453 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000 lbs (907 kg).

WARNING!

• Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's

hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake

system and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes

when you need them and could have an accident.

• Towing any trailer will increase your stopping

distance. When towing, you should allow for addi-

tional space between your vehicle and the vehicle in

front of you. Failure to do so could result in an accident.

STARTING AND OPERATING

421

Integrated Trailer Brake Module — If Equipped

Your vehicle may have an Integrated Trailer Brake Module

(ITBM) for Electric and Electric Over Hydraulic (EOH) trailer

brakes.
NOTE:

This module has been designed and verified with electric

trailer brakes and new electric over hydraulic systems. Some

previous EOH systems may not be compatible with ITBM.

Integrated Trailer Brake Module (ITBM)

The user interface consists of the following:
Instruction Brake Control Lever
Slide the instruction brake control lever to the left to activate

power to the trailer's electric brakes independent of the tow

vehicle's brakes. If the instruction brake control lever is acti-

vated while the brake is also applied, the greater of the two

inputs determines the power sent to the trailer brakes.

CAUTION!

If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (453 kg) loaded,

it should have its own brakes and they should be of

adequate capacity. Failure to do this could lead to

accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake pedal effort,

and longer stopping distances.

1 — GAIN Adjustment Button

2 — GAIN Adjustment Button

3 — Instruction Brake Control Lever

5

422 STARTING AND OPERATING

The trailer and the vehicle’s stop lamps will come on when

braking normally with the vehicle brake pedal. Only the

trailer stop lamps will come on when the instruction brake

control lever is applied.
Trailer Brake Status Indicator Light
This light indicates the trailer electrical connection status.
If no electrical connection is detected after the ignition is

turned on, pushing the GAIN adjustment button or sliding

the instruction brake control lever will display the GAIN setting

for 10 seconds and the “Trailer Brake Status Indicator Light”

will not be displayed.
If a fault is detected in the trailer wiring or the Integrated

Trailer Brake Module (ITBM), the “Trailer Brake Status Indi-

cator Light” will flash.
GAIN Adjustment Buttons (+/-)
Pushing these buttons will adjust the brake control power

output to the trailer brakes in 0.5 increments. The GAIN

setting can be increased to a maximum of 10 or decreased to

a minimum of 0 (no trailer braking).

GAIN
The GAIN setting is used to set the trailer brake control for

the specific towing condition and should be changed as

towing conditions change. Changes to towing conditions

include trailer load, vehicle load, road conditions and

weather.
Adjusting GAIN
NOTE:

This should only be performed in a traffic free environment

at speeds of approximately 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h).
1. Make sure the trailer brakes are in good working condi-

tion, functioning normally and properly adjusted. See

your trailer dealer if necessary.

2. Hook up the trailer and make the electrical connections

according to the trailer manufacturer's instructions.

3. When a trailer with electric/EOH brakes is plugged in,

the trailer connected message should appear in the

instrument cluster display (if the connection is not recog-

nized by the ITBM, braking functions will not be avail-

able), the GAIN setting will illuminate and the correct

type of trailer must be selected from the instrument

cluster display options.

STARTING AND OPERATING

423

4. Push the UP or DOWN button on the steering wheel until

“TRAILER TOW” appears on the screen.

5. Push the RIGHT arrow on the steering wheel to enter

“TRAILER TOW”.

6. Push the UP or DOWN buttons until the Trailer Brake

Type appears on the screen.

7. Push the RIGHT arrow and then push the UP or DOWN

buttons until the proper Trailer Brake Type appears on

the screen.

8. In a traffic-free environment, tow the trailer on a dry,

level surface at a speed of 20–25 mph (30–40 km/h) and

squeeze the instruction brake control lever completely.

9. If the trailer wheels lockup (indicated by squealing tires),

reduce the GAIN setting; if the trailer wheels turn freely,

increase the GAIN setting.

Repeat steps 8 and 9 until the GAIN setting is at a point just

below trailer wheel lockup. If towing a heavier trailer, trailer

wheel lockup may not be attainable even with the maximum

GAIN setting of 10.

* The suggested selection depends and may change

depending on the customer preferences for braking perfor-

mance. Condition of the trailer brakes, driving and road state

may also affect the selection.

Light Electric

Heavy Electric

Light EOH

Heavy EOH

Type of Trailer Brakes Electric Trailer Brakes Electric Trailer Brakes Electric over Hydraulic

Trailer Brakes

Electric over Hydraulic

Trailer Brakes

Load

*Under 10,000 lbs

*Above 10,000 lbs

*Under 10,000 lbs

*Above 10,000 lbs

5

424 STARTING AND OPERATING

Display Messages
The trailer brake control interacts with the instrument cluster

display. Display messages, along with a single chime, will be

displayed when a malfunction is determined in the trailer

connection, trailer brake control, or on the trailer. Refer to

“Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your

Instrument Panel” for further information.

NOTE:
• An aftermarket controller may be available for use with

trailers with air or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake

systems. To determine the type of brakes on your trailer

and the availability of controllers, check with your trailer

manufacturer or dealer.

• Removal of the ITBM will cause errors and it may cause

damage to the electrical system and electronic modules of

the vehicle. See your authorized dealer if an aftermarket

module is to be installed.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And Wiring

Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,

stoplights and turn signals on the trailer are required for

motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four- and seven-pin

wiring harness. Use a factory approved trailer harness and

connector.
NOTE:

Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle but

you must mate the harness to a trailer connector. Refer to the

following illustrations.

WARNING!

Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the

ITBM system may result in reduced or complete loss of

trailer braking. There may be a increase in stopping

distance or trailer instability which could result in

personal injury.

CAUTION!

Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the

ITBM system may result in reduced or complete loss of

trailer braking. There may be a increase in stopping

distance or trailer instability which could result in

damage to your vehicle, trailer, or other property.

STARTING AND OPERATING

425

NOTE:
• Disconnect trailer wiring connector from the vehicle

before launching a boat (or any other device plugged into

vehicle’s electrical connect) into water.

• Be sure to reconnect once clear from water area.

Four-Pin Connector

Seven-Pin Connector

1 — Female Pins

4 — Park

2 — Male Pin

5 — Left Stop/Turn

3 — Ground

6 — Right Stop/Turn

1 — Battery

5 — Ground

2 — Backup Lamps

6 — Left Stop/Turn

3 — Right Stop/Turn

7 — Running Lamps

4 — Electric Brakes

5

426 STARTING AND OPERATING

Towing Tips

Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping, and

backing up the trailer in an area located away from heavy

traffic.
Automatic Transmission

The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. The trans-

mission controls include a drive strategy to avoid frequent

shifting when towing. However, if frequent shifting does

occur while in DRIVE, select TOW/HAUL mode or select a

lower gear range (using the Electronic Range Select (ERS)

shift control).
NOTE:

Using TOW/HAUL mode or selecting a lower gear range

(using the ERS shift control) while operating the vehicle

under heavy loading conditions will improve performance

and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting

and heat build up. This action will also provide better engine

braking.
Tow/Haul Mode

To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheating,

activate TOW/HAUL mode when driving in hilly areas, or

select a lower gear range (using the Electronic Range Select

(ERS) shift control) on more severe grades.
Speed Control — If Equipped
• Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
• When using the speed control, if you experience speed

drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until you

can get back to cruising speed.

• Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to

maximize fuel efficiency.

Cooling System

To reduce potential for engine and transmission over-

heating, take the following actions:
City Driving
• In city traffic — while stopped, place the transmission in

NEUTRAL, but do not increase engine idle speed.

Highway Driving
• Reduce speed.
• Temporarily turn off air conditioning.

STARTING AND OPERATING

427

Air Suspension System

To aid in attaching/detaching the trailer from the vehicle,

the air suspension system can be used. Refer to “Air Suspen-

sion System” in “Starting And Operating” for further infor-

mation.
NOTE:

The vehicle must remain in the engine running position

while attaching a trailer for proper leveling of the air suspen-

sion system.

SNOWPLOW

2500/3500 Models Only

Snowplow Prep Packages are available as a factory installed

option. These packages include components necessary to

equip your vehicle with a snowplow.
NOTE:

Before installation of a snowplow it is highly recommended

that the owner/installer obtain and follow the recommenda-

tions contained within the current Body Builders Guide. See

your authorized dealer, installer or snowplow manufacturer

for this information. There are unique electrical systems that

must be connected to properly assure operator safety and

prevent overloading vehicle systems.

Before Plowing
• Check the hydraulic system for leaks and proper fluid

level.

• Check the mounting bolts and nuts for proper tightness.
• Check the runners and cutting edge for excessive wear.

The cutting edge should be ¼ to ½ in (6 cm to 1.2 cm) above

ground in snow plowing position.

• Check that snowplow lighting is connected and func-

tioning properly.

WARNING!

Attaching a snowplow to this vehicle could adversely

affect performance of the airbag system in a collision. Do

not expect that the airbag will perform as described

earlier in this instruction.

CAUTION!

The “Lamp Out” indicator could illuminate if exterior

lamps are not properly installed.

5

428 STARTING AND OPERATING

Snowplow Prep Package Model Availability

For Information about snowplow applications visit

www.ramtrucks.com or refer to the current Body Builders

Guide.
1. The maximum number of occupants in the truck should

not exceed two.

2. The total GVWR or the Front GAWR or the Rear GAWR

should never be exceeded.

3. Cargo capacity will be reduced by the addition of options

or passengers, etc.

The loaded vehicle weight, including the snowplow system,

all aftermarket accessories, driver, passengers, options, and

cargo, must not exceed either the Gross Vehicle Weight

(GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight (GAWR) ratings. These

weights are specified on the Safety Compliance Certification

Label on the driver's side door opening.
NOTE:

Detach the snowplow when transporting passengers.
Vehicle front end wheel alignment was set to specifications

at the factory without consideration for the weight of the

plow. Front end toe-in should be checked and reset if neces-

sary at the beginning and end of the snowplow season. This

will help prevent uneven tire wear.
The blade should be lowered whenever the vehicle is parked.
Maintain and operate your vehicle and snowplow equip-

ment following the recommendations provided by the

specific snowplow manufacturer.