2019 Ram 1500 Limited

[SnowWanderer]

I recently ordered a 2019 Ram 1500 Limited 5.7L V8 Hemi, 3.92 rear axle ratio, with a tow package, among other equipment.

It has a standard air suspension system that automatically lowers the travelling height, approximately 1/2 inch, when travelling above 35 mph.

Has anyone tried towing an Airstream with a truck so equipped? When initially leveling the trailer and truck combo and setting the anti sway bars in place, do you install your level point 1/2 inch higher to compensate for the drop in ball height that will occur above 35 mph... or do you level as usual and travel the 1/2 inch or so trailer tongue nose down when above 35 mph?

What thoughts, issues, problems or concerns come to mind?

[Daquenzer]

I would do a search on WDH and airbags and how to set them up. There are a few good links. As to your specific issue about it dropping 1/2 inch not sure.

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f238...gs-160829.html

[Gondul]

Hi! New guy here...

You can download the Owner's Manual from here and it explains the process.

https://www.mopar.com/ramtrucks/en-u...rs-manual.html

I also have a 2019 Limited (4x4, Off Road Group, Air Suspension, 3.92, Pano Roof) and my payload is only 1310.... which has me concerned over my wife's inclination to get the 27FB.

[jeffmc306]

Originally Posted by Gondul

Hi! New guy here...

You can download the Owner's Manual from here and it explains the process.

https://www.mopar.com/ramtrucks/en-u...rs-manual.html

I also have a 2019 Limited (4x4, Off Road Group, Air Suspension, 3.92, Pano Roof) and my payload is only 1310.... which has me concerned over my wife's inclination to get the 27FB.

Hi Gondul, I have a ‘19 RAM Laramie Sport with off-road package and 3.92 axle but my payload is only 1220. We’ve got a 27’ Globetrotter on order, due mid-April and plan to pull it with the RAM / BlueOX Swap Pro.

There’s several other treads about the subject with other posters already using the same package. One guy sent me his CAT scale tickets and was 400# over the rear axle’s 4100# limit. Funny thing is there’s a YouTube video from Edmund’s of a ‘19 RAM pulling a FC25 up the Grapevine Highway with 4 passengers with no problems.

We know the payload is close but the ‘19 RAM was beefed up with 6 bolt wheels, 15” brake rotors and stronger frame. Yes, it’s over the posted limit but I doubt the wheels will fall off. Our previous vehicle was a ‘16 VW Touareg TDI that pulled our FC23FB like a dream.

We considered keeping it as several other Forum members are pulling 25-27 footers without problems but decided to “be safe” and get the RAM. It wasn’t until after the dealer delivered the truck that we found the factory stated 1840# payload was different than the door sticker.

We’re going to the CAT scales after we get the trailer then have a conversation with the RAM dealer if there’s a problem. They stated in delivery documentation the payload capacity was 1840 (we’re leasing). If push comes to shove, we may be moving up to a 2500 but hoping not because the 1500 is a great ride.

Best of luck and happy camping!

[Gondul]

Originally Posted by jeffmc306

Hi Gondul, I have a ‘19 RAM Laramie Sport with off-road package and 3.92 axle but my payload is only 1220. We’ve got a 27’ Globetrotter on order, due mid-April and plan to pull it with the RAM / BlueOX Swap Pro.

Hey Jeff! That makes me feel better... I figured most things would go into the trailer anyway with maybe a small cooler with snacks in the truck. And I intend to sticking to mostly backgrounds anyway...not a fan of the superslab.

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by jeffmc306

Hi Gondul, I have a ‘19 RAM Laramie Sport with off-road package and 3.92 axle but my payload is only 1220. We’ve got a 27’ Globetrotter on order, due mid-April and plan to pull it with the RAM / BlueOX Swap Pro.

There’s several other treads about the subject with other posters already using the same package. One guy sent me his CAT scale tickets and was 400# over the rear axle’s 4100# limit. Funny thing is there’s a YouTube video from Edmund’s of a ‘19 RAM pulling a FC25 up the Grapevine Highway with 4 passengers with no problems.

We know the payload is close but the ‘19 RAM was beefed up with 6 bolt wheels, 15” brake rotors and stronger frame. Yes, it’s over the posted limit but I doubt the wheels will fall off. Our previous vehicle was a ‘16 VW Touareg TDI that pulled our FC23FB like a dream.

We considered keeping it as several other Forum members are pulling 25-27 footers without problems but decided to “be safe” and get the RAM. It wasn’t until after the dealer delivered the truck that we found the factory stated 1840# payload was different than the door sticker.

We’re going to the CAT scales after we get the trailer then have a conversation with the RAM dealer if there’s a problem. They stated in delivery documentation the payload capacity was 1840 (we’re leasing). If push comes to shove, we may be moving up to a 2500 but hoping not because the 1500 is a great ride.

Best of luck and happy camping!

And that my friends, is the problem with RAM and Toyota 1/2T...if your not careful! Many posts here about this...very important to verify your Payload on the actual vehicle prior to purchase...not from the specs in the brochure or on line...but from the actual vehicle. This can be an issue on all brands, if your not careful...my Platinum 2012 F150 EB only had a 1039lb Payload...who knew the importance of this with our first AS?? Thanks for the Forum!

Think about payload of a 27GT has a tongue weight of 820lbs; likely around 900+ when loaded. Passengers maybe 300-350lbs...now add in perhaps a generator, dog, some camp gear, bbq grill, fuel for generator, firewood...how about adding bikes, a canoe with racks, or bed cover? You can see if you how you can get over limit pretty quickly...did for us which is why we ended up going up to the 3/4T.

[Gondul]

For me at least the TT was an afterthought... not something we were considering at all until well after the truck was purchased.

[Countryboy59]

Originally Posted by SnowWanderer

I recently ordered a 2019 Ram 1500 Limited 5.7L V8 Hemi, 3.92 rear axle ratio, with a tow package, among other equipment.

It has a standard air suspension system that automatically lowers the travelling height, approximately 1/2 inch, when travelling above 35 mph.

Has anyone tried towing an Airstream with a truck so equipped? When initially leveling the trailer and truck combo and setting the anti sway bars in place, do you install your level point 1/2 inch higher to compensate for the drop in ball height that will occur above 35 mph... or do you level as usual and travel the 1/2 inch or so trailer tongue nose down when above 35 mph?

What thoughts, issues, problems or concerns come to mind?

What size Airstream do you have or are you getting one?

Don’t overthink it. Most airstreams can be towed with that truck. Get it set up so it tows level and don’t get a 30’ or 33’, don’t try to carry a lot of weight in the bed and you should be fine.

Get with a good airstream dealer and have it set up right.

[Snerf]

For your perusal, a couple of actual payload rating stickers (found in the driver's side door jamb).

1. F150 3.3l 4x2
2. F150 3.5 eb 4x4 + payload/max tow
3. F150 3.5 eb 4x2
4. F250 6.2 gas

[Gondul]

Originally Posted by Snerf

For your perusal, a couple of actual payload rating stickers (found in the driver's side door jamb).

1. F150 3.3l 4x2
2. F150 3.5 eb 4x4 + payload/max tow
3. F150 3.5 eb 4x2
4. F250 6.2 gas

I'm sorry.. how are payload stickers from a Ford relevant to the OPs question?

[Snerf]

Originally Posted by Gondul

I'm sorry.. how are payload stickers from a Ford relevant to the OPs question?

Feel free to think of it as complementary to Gypsy's general cautionary observation above:

And that my friends, is the problem with RAM and Toyota 1/2T...if your not careful! Many posts here about this...very important to verify your Payload on the actual vehicle prior to purchase...not from the specs in the brochure or on line...but from the actual vehicle. This can be an issue on all brands, if your not careful...my Platinum 2012 F150 EB only had a 1039lb Payload...who knew the importance of this with our first AS?? Thanks for the Forum!

Think about payload of a 27GT has a tongue weight of 820lbs; likely around 900+ when loaded. Passengers maybe 300-350lbs...now add in perhaps a generator, dog, some camp gear, bbq grill, fuel for generator, firewood...how about adding bikes, a canoe with racks, or bed cover? You can see if you how you can get over limit pretty quickly...did for us which is why we ended up going up to the 3/4T.

Edit

I actually tried to collect the same type/kind of information for the Ram 1500, Tundra & Titan as I'm in the process of searching for a TV myself. (I currently own a 22' Lazy Daze class C on a 1 ton dually chassis.)

I shied away from the Ram 1500 simply because I couldn't easily answer some basic questions without deep diving on my own. This isn't a dealer issue, but a user base issue; that is, Ram isn't nearly as robust as either the F150 or F250. (There are dedicated forums like Airforums where an amazing amount of detailed information can be acquired either by searching older threads or just asking a new question.)

Both Tundra and Titan didn't have the type of detailed information I was looking for. In the case of the Titan, it had a weird blurb (I might be mistaken) where it mentioned the dealer would install the hitch if one ordered the trailer tow package. Um, right, got it - LOL.

So, I'm circling back to Ford simply because its market domination pays dividends in terms of volume & breadth, dealer support and aftermarket expertise.

Take a look around AF itself for example; tons of great info on setting up either F150 or SD F250 trucks.

[jeffmc306]

Originally Posted by Snerf

Feel free to think of it as complementary to Gypsy's general cautionary observation above:

And that my friends, is the problem with RAM and Toyota 1/2T...if your not careful! Many posts here about this...very important to verify your Payload on the actual vehicle prior to purchase...not from the specs in the brochure or on line...but from the actual vehicle. This can be an issue on all brands, if your not careful...my Platinum 2012 F150 EB only had a 1039lb Payload...who knew the importance of this with our first AS?? Thanks for the Forum!

Think about payload of a 27GT has a tongue weight of 820lbs; likely around 900+ when loaded. Passengers maybe 300-350lbs...now add in perhaps a generator, dog, some camp gear, bbq grill, fuel for generator, firewood...how about adding bikes, a canoe with racks, or bed cover? You can see if you how you can get over limit pretty quickly...did for us which is why we ended up going up to the 3/4T.

Edit

I actually tried to collect the same type/kind of information for the Ram 1500, Tundra & Titan as I'm in the process of searching for a TV myself. (I currently own a 22' Lazy Daze class C on a 1 ton dually chassis.)

I shied away from the Ram 1500 simply because I couldn't easily answer some basic questions without deep diving on my own. This isn't a dealer issue, but a user base issue; that is, Ram isn't nearly as robust as either the F150 or F250. (There are dedicated forums like Airforums where an amazing amount of detailed information can be acquired either by searching older threads or just asking a new question.)

Both Tundra and Titan didn't have the type of detailed information I was looking for. In the case of the Titan, it had a weird blurb (I might be mistaken) where it mentioned the dealer would install the hitch if one ordered the trailer tow package. Um, right, got it - LOL.

So, I'm circling back to Ford simply because its market domination pays dividends in terms of volume & breadth, dealer support and aftermarket expertise.

Take a look around AF itself for example; tons of great info on setting up either F150 or SD F250 trucks.

Hi Snerf, in case you’re interested the 5th Gen RAM Forum has quite a bit of data on door stickers (19 pages at last count): https://5thgenrams.com/community/thr...g-sticker.374/

Yes, we’re aware the Fords have better payload but I guess it’s an acquired taste... If I were looking for a 3/4 ton it would be a RAM. In my previous life I was a GM guy and NSE Certified mechanic but found the ‘19 RAM 1500’s interior and safety features compelling.

There’s NO argument that Ford has higher payloads. Shame on me for taking the salesperson’s document presenting the 1840# payload capacity at the time we signed the deal. I had provided the 27’ GT’s specs and said we MUST have at least 1800# capacity. He was the Commercial Truck specialist and assured me the RAM configuration tool’s numbers were correct.

The truck was a dealer trade so I had no way to check it prior to delivery. In fact, it wasn’t until another post on the AS forum with GypsyDad that I discovered the truth.

Ford vs. <insert some other brand>? Which is better? I guess it’s up to the individual’s taste. Me, I like chocolate!

Cheers!
-j

[rmkrum]

Me, I think I’ll have another beer. And keep driving my Tacoma...

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by jeffmc306

Hi Snerf, in case you’re interested the 5th Gen RAM Forum has quite a bit of data on door stickers (19 pages at last count): https://5thgenrams.com/community/thr...g-sticker.374/

Yes, we’re aware the Fords have better payload but I guess it’s an acquired taste... If I were looking for a 3/4 ton it would be a RAM. In my previous life I was a GM guy and NSE Certified mechanic but found the ‘19 RAM 1500’s interior and safety features compelling.

There’s NO argument that Ford has higher payloads. Shame on me for taking the salesperson’s document presenting the 1840# payload capacity at the time we signed the deal. I had provided the 27’ GT’s specs and said we MUST have at least 1800# capacity. He was the Commercial Truck specialist and assured me the RAM configuration tool’s numbers were correct.

The truck was a dealer trade so I had no way to check it prior to delivery. In fact, it wasn’t until another post on the AS forum with GypsyDad that I discovered the truth.

Ford vs. <insert some other brand>? Which is better? I guess it’s up to the individual’s taste. Me, I like chocolate!

Cheers!
-j

Thanks for the shout out...another thing I now do when talking with a dealer on a truck on their lot via internet/phone...ask them to check the sticker and get back to me...saves me from driving somewhere to see an advertised deal... I have noticed sometimes on the internet listings, some dealers will actually list the payload on that truck... As we are all still learning as we go, the more information we acquire from each other, the better our decisions...hopefully!

I also like the RAM interior...I always thought Dodge did a better job at adding "creature features" in their vehicles since Lee was in charge...wondered why GM and Ford didn't incorporate some logical enhancements, like storage in the cab, cup holders that fit cups we use, etc.....but I am happy with my Ford..at least for now...

[aliner]

I have a 2018 ram 1500 Laramie 4x4, 5.7 hemi, 3.92. Pretty much like yours but don't have the auto air lift. I pull a 2005 Safari. When traveling south, my average loaded trailer comes in around 5900 to 6000 lbs. With the 8 speed trans, this truck is a dream to drive. Handles my AS just fine.


Lynn

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by aliner

I have a 2018 ram 1500 Laramie 4x4, 5.7 hemi, 3.92. Pretty much like yours but don't have the auto air lift. I pull a 2005 Safari. When traveling south, my average loaded trailer comes in around 5900 to 6000 lbs. With the 8 speed trans, this truck is a dream to drive. Handles my AS just fine.


Lynn

Just curious Lynn; what is the "payload" rating on the inside door sticker? That is the "gotcha" we are talking about... I would be surprised if it was over 1300 lbs payload rating.... When you add up your passengers weight, tongue weight of your 25' (830+ lbs), and your gear you plan to carry in the bed, likely your over the limits of your RAM...but, let us know what the actual "sticker" says on your driver door sticker....

[aliner]

Gpsydad, My GVWR on my 2018 is 6900 lbs , payload rating is 1580lbs. Pls note I have a quad cab with the 6'4" bed. I believe my payload a little more than the crew cab configuration. In order to keep within the limits of the truck, the key is to carry only what you need and will use and of course that will depend on where you are going and what you will be doing. Every time we go on a 2 month outting, we take less than before. I take the minimum water, food, tools, etc. There's always a Walmart in every town. So far I've had no issues. Love my truck!


Lynn

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by aliner

Gpsydad, My GVWR on my 2018 is 6900 lbs , payload rating is 1580lbs. Pls note I have a quad cab with the 6'4" bed. I believe my payload a little more than the crew cab configuration. In order to keep within the limits of the truck, the key is to carry only what you need and will use and of course that will depend on where you are going and what you will be doing. Every time we go on a 2 month outting, we take less than before. I take the minimum water, food, tools, etc. There's always a Walmart in every town. So far I've had no issues. Love my truck!


Lynn

That's a real good payload for 1/2T...we used to have to carry more in our TV bed and were overloaded with our first F150; lots of payload in our F250. Also, when we went to the twin bed configuration, especially on the 28', the extra outside storage now holds a lot of what we used to carry in the bed. We only carry a generator, extra 20#propane bottle, propane fire pit, plastic bin of camp gear/propane stove, and a bbq; adds 2200lbs to the payload. Like you said, there's always a Walmart or somewhere to get what we forgot!