Dodge Ram 5500 Dump Truck: Specs, Features & Buying Guide
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If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty workhorse that can handle the toughest jobs, the Dodge Ram 5500 dump truck is likely at the top of your list. This isn’t just another pickup; it’s a purpose-built chassis cab designed for serious commercial use, from construction sites to large-scale landscaping. As someone who has spent over a decade testing and reviewing trucks, I can tell you that choosing the right dump truck is a critical investment. This guide will dive deep into the Ram 5500 dump truck’s specifications, key features, and provide a practical buying guide to help you make an informed decision. We’ll cover everything from engine performance and payload capacity to real-world considerations for upfitting and ownership costs.
Detailed Specifications and Performance
Understanding the raw numbers is the first step. The Dodge Ram 5500 dump truck is built on a chassis cab platform, meaning you purchase the cab and chassis, and a separate manufacturer (an upfitter) adds the dump body. The core specifications are impressive and form the foundation of its capability.
Powertrain and Drivetrain
At the heart of the Ram 5500 is the legendary 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine. This powerplant is a favorite in the industry for its reliability and massive torque output. It generates 360 horsepower and a staggering 850 lb-ft of torque, providing the low-end grunt needed to move heavy loads from a standstill. It’s paired with a robust 6-speed automatic transmission or an available 6-speed manual. For 2023, Ram introduced the High-Output Cummins option, pushing torque to 1,075 lb-ft, a game-changer for extreme-duty applications. Standard rear-wheel drive with optional four-wheel drive ensures traction in challenging site conditions.
Chassis, Payload, and Towing
This is where the Ram 5500 dump truck truly shines. It’s built on a Class 5 commercial truck platform with dual rear wheels (DRW). The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) can be configured up to 19,500 lbs or more, depending on the wheelbase and options. The payload capacity—the weight you can put in the dump body itself—is its key metric. A properly equipped Ram 5500 can typically handle a payload of over 10,000 pounds. For example, a common 12-foot steel dump body can legally carry approximately 7-8 cubic yards of mulch or 5-6 cubic yards of gravel. Towing capacity is equally robust, often exceeding 30,000 lbs with a gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitch, making it a versatile asset.
| Feature | Standard Spec | High-Output Option |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 HO |
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 850 lb-ft | 1,075 lb-ft |
| Max GVWR | Up to 19,500+ lbs | |
| Estimated Max Payload | 10,000 – 12,000 lbs* | |
| Transmission | 6-speed Auto or 6-speed Manual | |
| *Payload varies based on chassis configuration and dump body weight. | ||
Essential Features for the Working Truck
Beyond the specs, the Ram 5500 offers features that enhance durability, driver comfort, and operational efficiency. Unlike consumer trucks, every element here is geared toward productivity.
Cab Comfort and Technology
Long days demand a comfortable cabin. The Ram 5500 offers a well-appointed interior with available features like heated and ventilated seats, a large touchscreen with Uconnect (supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and advanced noise insulation. For fleet managers, the available Ram Telematics system is invaluable, providing data on vehicle location, idle time, and maintenance alerts to optimize operations.
Durability and Safety
The chassis features high-strength steel frame rails. Commercial-grade wiring harnesses and corrosion protection are standard. Safety isn’t an afterthought; available systems include:
- Trailer Surround View Camera
- Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path detection
- Electronic Stability Control with Load-Leveling
- Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering for easier low-speed maneuvering
The Complete Buying Guide: New vs. Used & Upfitting
Purchasing a dump truck is a multi-step process. You’re not just buying a vehicle; you’re creating a tool.
New vs. Used Considerations
A new Ram 5500 chassis cab provides the latest technology, a full warranty, and predictable maintenance history. However, the initial cost is significant. A used model can offer substantial savings. When inspecting a used Ram 5500 dump truck, prioritize:
- Service Records: Diesel engine maintenance is critical.
- Frame and Body Rust: Inspect the chassis and dump body thoroughly.
- Upfit Quality: Examine the hydraulic system (pump, PTO, cylinders) for leaks or wear.
- Odometer Reading: While diesel engines are long-lived, high miles on a work truck can indicate heavy use.
John Miller, a fleet manager with 25 years of experience and a certified equipment specialist, advises: “Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a diesel mechanic familiar with chassis cabs. The cost of a major repair on the Cummins or the Allison transmission can eclipse the savings from buying used.”
The Critical Upfitting Process
This is the most important step. You must choose a reputable upfitter to install the dump body and hydraulic system. Key decisions include:
- Dump Body Material: Steel (durable, heavier) vs. Aluminum (lighter weight for greater payload).
- Body Length: Typically 10 to 14 feet. Match it to your most common material.
- Hydraulic System Capacity: Ensure it can lift a fully loaded body reliably.
- Additional Options: Toolboxes, underbody liners, tarp systems.
For businesses looking for a comprehensive solution, partnering with a global manufacturer that handles both chassis and body integration can streamline the process. Companies like Chinese Truck Factory offer complete, custom-built dump truck solutions that can be a cost-effective alternative for certain commercial needs, often providing robust specifications tailored to specific international market requirements.
Ownership Costs and Final Verdict
The purchase price is just the beginning. Budget for ongoing costs:
- Fuel: Diesel fuel economy will range from 10-14 MPG depending on load.
- Insurance: Commercial truck insurance is higher than personal auto.
- Maintenance: Follow the severe service schedule. Oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and DEF fluid are regular expenses.
- Depreciation: While heavy-duty trucks hold value well, it’s still a factor.
Is the Dodge Ram 5500 dump truck the right choice? For businesses that need a versatile, North American-built workhorse with exceptional power, a strong dealer network, and high resale value, it is an outstanding option. Its primary strength lies in the proven Cummins diesel engine and its massive payload potential. However, the total cost of ownership is high. For operations with extreme payload requirements or those seeking a fully integrated unit from a single source, exploring global commercial vehicle manufacturers could reveal competitive alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the actual, real-world payload capacity of a Ram 5500 dump truck?
A: While the chassis can be rated for over 10,000 lbs, the actual legal payload is the GVWR minus the weight of the truck itself (cab, chassis, fuel, driver) AND the weight of the dump body and hydraulic system. A typical 12-foot steel body can weigh 3,500+ lbs. Therefore, a truck with a 19,500 lb GVWR might have a usable payload of 9,000-10,000 lbs. Always have your completed vehicle weighed at a CAT scale.
Q: Can I use a Ram 5500 dump truck for towing as well?
A> Absolutely. Its high tow ratings make it excellent for pulling equipment trailers, lowboys, or using a gooseneck hitch. Remember that payload capacity and towing capacity are separate ratings. The weight in the dump body plus the tongue weight of a trailer must not exceed the truck’s total payload capacity.
Q: How does the Ram 5500 compare to a Ford F-550 or Chevy Silverado 5500?
A> All three are capable Class 5 trucks. The Ram’s key differentiator is the Cummins diesel, which many owners prefer for its aftermarket support and perceived longevity. The Ford offers a potent 6.7L Power Stroke V8, and the Chevy uses a 6.6L Duramax V8. Drive quality, interior layout, and available upfit options can vary. It’s crucial to compare similarly configured chassis cabs and get quotes from upfitters for each brand.
Q: What are common problems to watch for with a used Ram 5500?
A> Key areas include the emissions system (DPF, DEF injectors), which can be costly to repair. Also, listen for injector noise on the Cummins engine, check for leaks in the hydraulic dump system, and inspect the suspension components (springs, bushings) for wear from heavy loads. Obtaining a detailed vehicle history report is essential.
Sources & Further Reading:
1. Ram Trucks Commercial Vehicle Specifications: Ram Commercial
2. Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel Engine Specifications: Cummins Inc.
3. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for vehicle ratings and recalls: NHTSA.gov
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