To tow 15,000 pounds or more, you’ll need a heavy‑duty pickup equipped with a strong powertrain, reinforced chassis, and proper towing hardware. Most half‑ton trucks can’t handle that much weight, so ¾‑ton and 1‑ton models are the go‑to choices.
Trucks Rated to Tow 15,000 Pounds or More
Ford Super Duty Series
- F‑250, F‑350, and F‑450
- Available with the 6.7L Power Stroke turbo diesel V8
- Towing capacities range from 15,000 lbs to over 37,000 lbs, depending on configuration
Ram Heavy Duty
- 2500 and 3500
- Equipped with the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel
- Ram 3500 can tow up to around 37,000 lbs with a fifth‑wheel setup
Chevrolet Silverado HD
- 2500HD and 3500HD
- Features the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine with Allison transmission
- 3500HD can tow over 36,000 lbs when properly equipped
GMC Sierra HD
- 2500HD and 3500HD
- Shares the Duramax diesel and towing capability of the Silverado
- High towing figures for both conventional and gooseneck setups
Key Considerations for Towing 15,000+ Pounds
- Diesel Engines – Diesel trucks offer higher torque and better towing stability.
- Fifth‑Wheel or Gooseneck Hitches – Needed for maximum rated towing capacities.
- Axle Ratios – Trucks with higher numerical axle ratios can tow more.
- Tow Packages – Factory towing packages include enhanced cooling, integrated trailer brake controllers, and heavy‑duty suspensions.