2026 RAM 3500 vs Ford F-350 Near Austin TX | One-Ton Truck Guide
2026 RAM 3500 vs Ford F-350 Super Duty Near Austin TX: Which Heavy-Duty Truck Is Right for Towing, Payload, Ranch Work, and Commercial Hauling?
Heavy-duty truck shoppers eventually reach a point where capability is no longer optional.
The truck may need to pull a fifth-wheel camper across Texas.
It may need to tow a gooseneck livestock trailer.
It may need to carry tools, materials, equipment, or ranch supplies every week.
It may need to handle a construction site during the day and a family road trip during the weekend.
It may need to support a growing business without forcing you to replace the truck again in a year.
For serious heavy-duty work, two trucks frequently enter the conversation:
The 2026 RAM 3500 and the 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty.
Both trucks offer substantial towing capability.
Both offer gas and diesel engine options.
Both are available in Single Rear Wheel and Dual Rear Wheel configurations depending on the selected model.
Both can support contractors, ranchers, RV owners, equipment operators, business owners, and drivers who need more truck than a light-duty or three-quarter-ton pickup can provide.
But they take different approaches.
The 2026 RAM 3500 keeps the engine decision straightforward.
Choose the standard 6.4L HEMI V8 if your priority is gas-powered capability and maximum RAM 3500 payload.
Choose the available High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 if you want 430 horsepower, 1,075 lb-ft of torque, and up to 36,610 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped.
The 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty gives shoppers a broader engine lineup, including two gas V8 engines and two available Power Stroke diesel configurations.
Properly configured F-350 Dual Rear Wheel models can reach up to 38,600 pounds of fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing capacity.
For drivers in Georgetown, Round Rock, Austin, Leander, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Hutto, Liberty Hill, Jarrell, Temple, and surrounding Central Texas communities, the right truck depends on the actual workload.
Do you need maximum payload?
Do you tow a fifth-wheel camper?
Do you pull a gooseneck trailer?
Do you want Cummins diesel power?
Do you need a dually?
Do you prioritize a larger fuel tank?
Do you want available auto-level rear air suspension?
Would a RAM 2500 already meet your needs?
Does your business need a traditional pickup bed or a specialized RAM Chassis Cab upfit?

At Mac Haik Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Georgetown, our team can help you compare current RAM 3500 inventory, engine options, Single Rear Wheel and Dual Rear Wheel configurations, financing resources, trade-in opportunities, and commercial-vehicle alternatives.
Start here:
- Shop New RAM 3500 Inventory
- Compare New RAM 2500 Trucks
- Browse Commercial Vehicles
- Review Business Tax Savings Information
- Sell Us Your Current Truck
- Apply for Financing
2026 RAM 3500 vs Ford F-350 Super Duty: Quick Comparison
| Category | 2026 RAM 3500 | 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Gas Engine | 6.4L HEMI V8 | 6.8L Gas V8 |
| Standard Gas Horsepower | 405 hp | 405 hp |
| Standard Gas Torque | 429 lb-ft | 445 lb-ft |
| Additional Gas Engine | — | Available 7.3L Gas V8 |
| Additional Gas Horsepower | — | 430 hp |
| Additional Gas Torque | — | 485 lb-ft |
| RAM Diesel Engine | High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 | Available 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 configurations |
| RAM Diesel Horsepower | 430 hp | Up to 500 hp with High-Output Power Stroke |
| RAM Diesel Torque | 1,075 lb-ft | Up to 1,200 lb-ft with High-Output Power Stroke |
| Maximum Gas Towing Highlight | Up to 18,150 lbs | Varies by Ford engine and configuration |
| Maximum Diesel Towing Highlight | Up to 36,610 lbs | Up to 38,600 lbs for certain properly configured F-350 DRW fifth-wheel or gooseneck setups |
| Maximum Gas Payload Highlight | Up to 7,590 lbs | Ford advertises up to 8,000 lbs across properly configured Super Duty trucks |
| Maximum Diesel Payload Highlight | Up to 6,050 lbs | Varies by Ford configuration |
| Maximum RAM GVWR | Up to 14,000 lbs | Varies by F-350 configuration |
| Available Rear Air Suspension | Yes | Compare exact F-350 configuration |
| Available Fuel-Tank Highlight | Up to 50 gallons on eligible RAM 3500 Crew Cab 8-foot-bed models | Ford lists an available 48-gallon tank for comparable F-350 configurations |
| Available RAM Towing Technology | Trailer Reverse Steering Control, Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring, fifth-wheel and gooseneck prep | Available Ford towing technology varies by selected configuration |
| Best Starting Point | Cummins shoppers, payload-focused businesses, ranchers, RV owners, RAM comfort, towing technology, and 50-gallon fuel-tank availability | Buyers prioritizing maximum published F-350 towing, more engine choices, higher maximum diesel output, or Ford Super Duty loyalty |
Maximum ratings apply only when properly equipped. Towing and payload capacity vary based on engine, cab, bed length, drivetrain, axle ratio, hitch equipment, passengers, accessories, cargo, and trailer type.
Important Distinction: Ford F-350 vs Ford F-450 Towing Numbers
Ford promotes a maximum available 40,000-pound gooseneck towing figure for the broader Super Duty lineup.
That is an impressive number.
But shoppers comparing RAM 3500 against Ford F-350 should understand the distinction:
The maximum 40,000-pound Ford headline requires a properly configured Ford F-450 with the available 40K Gooseneck Tow Package.
It is not the towing rating of every Ford F-350.
For a closer RAM 3500-vs-F-350 comparison, Ford’s towing guide shows properly configured F-350 Dual Rear Wheel models reaching up to 38,600 pounds of fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing capacity.
The RAM 3500 reaches up to 36,610 pounds of diesel towing capacity when properly equipped.
The difference between the maximum published figures is meaningful.
But the exact truck still matters more than the headline.
A Crew Cab 4×4 dually with a premium trim may carry a different rating than a Regular Cab 4×2 truck built around maximum towing.
Before buying, confirm the towing rating of the exact truck you are considering.
The Simple Answer: RAM 3500 or Ford F-350?
Choose the 2026 RAM 3500 if you want:
- A straightforward gas-or-diesel lineup
- A standard 6.4L HEMI V8
- An available High-Output Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
- 1,075 lb-ft of diesel torque
- Up to 36,610 pounds of towing capability
- Up to 7,590 pounds of gas payload capability
- Up to 6,050 pounds of diesel payload capability
- Available Single Rear Wheel and Dual Rear Wheel configurations
- Available auto-level rear air suspension
- Available Bed Lowering Mode on eligible configurations
- Available Trailer Reverse Steering Control
- Available Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring
- Available fifth-wheel and gooseneck prep
- An available 50-gallon fuel tank on eligible Crew Cab 8-foot-bed models
- A truck built for towing, payload, ranch work, RV travel, and commercial use
- A heavy-duty pickup that can still deliver a refined daily-driving experience
Choose the 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty if you want:
- A broader engine lineup
- Two gas V8 options
- Two Power Stroke diesel-output levels
- Up to 500 horsepower
- Up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque
- Properly configured F-350 DRW fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing of up to 38,600 pounds
- Ford Super Duty styling
- Ford truck familiarity
- A specific Ford fleet standard
- More engine configurations to compare
- A path to the Ford F-450 if maximum Super Duty gooseneck towing is the priority
| Your Priority | Better Starting Point |
| Straightforward gas-vs-diesel shopping process | RAM 3500 |
| Cummins diesel ownership | RAM 3500 |
| Maximum available F-350 diesel torque | Ford F-350 |
| Maximum available F-350 diesel horsepower | Ford F-350 |
| Maximum published F-350 fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing | Ford F-350 |
| Maximum RAM 3500 gas payload | RAM 3500 |
| Available auto-level rear air suspension | RAM 3500 |
| Available Bed Lowering Mode | RAM 3500 |
| Available 50-gallon fuel tank | RAM 3500 |
| More engine choices | Ford F-350 |
| Dually truck for a fifth-wheel camper | Compare exact configurations |
| Dually truck for a gooseneck trailer | Compare exact configurations |
| Ranch work | Compare exact configurations |
| Commercial towing | Compare exact configurations |
| Specialized flatbed or service-body build | Compare RAM Chassis Cab instead |
The Ford F-350 wins some top-output paper specifications.
The RAM 3500 remains a strong choice because it combines serious capability with Cummins diesel torque, strong gas payload, available towing technology, available rear air suspension, and a larger available fuel tank than comparable Ford F-350 configurations.
2026 RAM 3500 Engine Options
The 2026 RAM 3500 gives shoppers two engine choices.
| RAM 3500 Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Payload Capacity |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 | 405 hp | 429 lb-ft | Up to 18,150 lbs | Up to 7,590 lbs |
| High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 | 430 hp | 1,075 lb-ft | Up to 36,610 lbs | Up to 6,050 lbs |
The right engine depends on how the truck will be used.
Choose the RAM 3500 HEMI V8 if you want:
- Gas-powered simplicity
- Strong horsepower
- Maximum RAM 3500 payload capability
- Tools and materials in the bed
- Contractor use
- Ranch work
- Local driving
- Commercial hauling
- A lower-cost starting point than many diesel configurations
- Less emphasis on maximum towing
- A heavy-duty truck that carries weight more often than it pulls the heaviest trailers
Choose the RAM 3500 Cummins diesel if you want:
- Maximum RAM 3500 towing capacity
- 1,075 lb-ft of torque
- Long-distance towing
- Fifth-wheel camper towing
- Gooseneck trailers
- Livestock trailers
- Equipment trailers
- Boat towing
- Ranch work
- Commercial hauling
- Diesel power
- A truck built around demanding trailer use
The RAM 3500 HEMI is the payload-focused choice.
The RAM 3500 Cummins is the maximum-towing choice.
2026 Ford F-350 Engine Options
The 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty offers a broader engine lineup.
| Ford Super Duty Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
| 6.8L Gas V8 | 405 hp | 445 lb-ft |
| 7.3L Gas V8 | 430 hp | 485 lb-ft |
| 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 | 475 hp | 1,050 lb-ft |
| High-Output 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 | 500 hp | 1,200 lb-ft |
Ford gives shoppers more engine configurations.
That can be useful if you want to fine-tune the truck around a specific workload.
Choose a Ford F-350 gas engine if you want:
- Gas-powered heavy-duty capability
- Two V8 options
- Contractor use
- Payload-focused work
- Ranch driving
- Tools and materials
- A broader gas-engine selection
- Ford Super Duty familiarity
Choose a Ford F-350 Power Stroke diesel if you want:
- Strong maximum diesel output
- Higher published horsepower
- Higher published torque
- Fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing
- Equipment trailers
- Frequent commercial towing
- Ford diesel ownership
- More diesel-output choices
Ford gives shoppers more options.
RAM makes the engine decision simpler.
RAM 3500 HEMI vs Ford F-350 Gas Engines
Not every one-ton truck buyer needs a diesel.
Gas-powered heavy-duty trucks can make sense for:
- Local contractors
- Landscapers
- Construction crews
- Ranch owners
- Municipal fleets
- Property maintenance
- Tools and materials
- Equipment in the bed
- Lower annual mileage
- Occasional trailer use
- Drivers who prioritize payload
- Businesses looking for a practical work-truck configuration
| Category | RAM 3500 HEMI V8 | Ford F-350 Gas V8 Options |
| Standard Gas Engine | 6.4L HEMI V8 | 6.8L Gas V8 |
| Standard Horsepower | 405 hp | 405 hp |
| Standard Torque | 429 lb-ft | 445 lb-ft |
| Additional Gas Engine | — | Available 7.3L Gas V8 |
| Additional Gas Horsepower | — | 430 hp |
| Additional Gas Torque | — | 485 lb-ft |
| RAM Maximum Gas Towing | Up to 18,150 lbs | Compare exact Ford configuration |
| RAM Maximum Gas Payload | Up to 7,590 lbs | Ford advertises up to 8,000 lbs across properly configured Super Duty trucks |
| Best Fit | Straightforward gas-powered capability, strong payload, work-truck use | Broader gas-engine selection and maximum Ford Super Duty payload configurations |
Choose RAM 3500 HEMI if you want:
- A straightforward gas-powered truck
- Strong payload capability
- A traditional HEMI V8
- Contractor use
- Ranch use
- A heavy-duty truck for tools and materials
- An easier RAM engine decision
- A gas-powered truck that does not need to pull the heaviest gooseneck trailer
Choose Ford F-350 gas if you want:
- Two gas-engine choices
- Higher maximum available gas torque
- A broader engine lineup
- A specific Ford configuration
- A truck built around a particular payload target
The best gas truck depends on the exact payload, towing, cab, bed, and drivetrain configuration.
RAM 3500 Cummins vs Ford F-350 Power Stroke Diesel
Diesel is where the comparison becomes more competitive.
| Category | RAM 3500 High-Output Cummins | Ford F-350 High-Output Power Stroke |
| Engine | 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 | 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 |
| Horsepower | 430 hp | 500 hp |
| Torque | 1,075 lb-ft | 1,200 lb-ft |
| Maximum RAM Diesel Towing | Up to 36,610 lbs | Certain properly configured F-350 DRW fifth-wheel or gooseneck setups reach up to 38,600 lbs |
| Maximum RAM Diesel Payload | Up to 6,050 lbs | Compare exact F-350 configuration |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite HD 8-speed automatic | Ford TorqShift 10-speed automatic |
| Best Fit | Cummins shoppers, serious towing, ranch work, fifth-wheel campers, gooseneck trailers, and RAM towing technology | Buyers prioritizing top published F-350 output, Ford diesel power, and maximum F-350 towing configurations |
Choose RAM 3500 Cummins if you want:
- Cummins diesel power
- Strong low-end torque
- Up to 36,610 pounds of towing capability
- A simple diesel choice
- Fifth-wheel towing
- Gooseneck towing
- RV travel
- Livestock trailers
- Equipment hauling
- Available rear air suspension
- Available Trailer Reverse Steering Control
- Available Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring
- Available 50-gallon fuel-tank capacity on eligible models
- A RAM heavy-duty cabin
Choose Ford F-350 Power Stroke if you want:
- Higher maximum diesel horsepower
- Higher maximum diesel torque
- A broader diesel selection
- Maximum published F-350 towing numbers
- Ford Super Duty loyalty
- A specific Ford configuration that matches your trailer
- A possible path into F-450 capability if your workload grows further
Ford wins the maximum F-350 diesel-output numbers.
RAM remains a compelling choice for buyers who want Cummins power, RAM towing technology, rear air-suspension availability, and a straightforward heavy-duty lineup.
RAM 3500 vs Ford F-350 Towing Capacity
Towing is often the main reason shoppers move into a one-ton truck.
| Towing Category | 2026 RAM 3500 | 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty |
| Maximum RAM Gas Towing | Up to 18,150 lbs | Compare exact Ford gas configuration |
| Maximum RAM Diesel Towing | Up to 36,610 lbs | Certain properly configured F-350 DRW fifth-wheel or gooseneck setups reach up to 38,600 lbs |
| Conventional Towing Highlight | Compare exact RAM configuration | F-350 DRW factory hitch-receiver capacity reaches up to 28,000 lbs |
| Maximum Ford Super Duty Gooseneck Headline | — | 40,000 lbs, but this requires a properly configured F-450 rather than an F-350 |
The F-350 has a maximum towing advantage in certain configurations.
But a truck should never be selected based on a single maximum number.
Before towing, verify:
- Exact truck model
- Engine
- Transmission
- Cab configuration
- Bed length
- Single Rear Wheel vs Dual Rear Wheel
- Drivetrain
- Axle ratio
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
- Gross Combined Weight Rating
- Trailer type
- Loaded trailer weight
- Tongue weight
- King-pin weight
- Hitch equipment
- Payload
- Passenger weight
- Cargo weight
- Bed accessories
- Toolboxes
- Fuel
- Trailer-brake requirements
- Tire condition
- Future trailer upgrades
A truck built around maximum towing may not be the same truck you want to drive every day.
What Can a RAM 3500 Tow?
A properly configured RAM 3500 can support demanding trailer use.
Potential towing applications may include:
- Fifth-wheel campers
- Gooseneck trailers
- Livestock trailers
- Equipment trailers
- Large travel trailers
- Toy haulers
- Boats
- Utility trailers
- Construction equipment
- Ranch equipment
- Landscaping trailers
- Commercial loads
- Agricultural supplies
- Outdoor gear
- Business equipment
The right configuration depends on the loaded trailer weight.
Do not buy based only on an unloaded trailer number.
Plan for:
- Water
- Fuel
- Food
- Cargo
- Tools
- Passengers
- Equipment
- Hitch weight
- Accessories
- Supplies
- Future upgrades
RAM 3500 vs Ford F-350 Payload Capacity
Payload includes everything carried by the truck.
That may include:
- Passengers
- Cargo
- Tools
- Toolboxes
- Bed accessories
- Materials
- Fuel
- Hitch weight
- Fifth-wheel pin weight
- Equipment
- Ranch supplies
- Construction supplies
- Crew members
- Camping gear
The RAM 3500 offers:
| RAM 3500 Payload Category | Maximum Capacity |
| Maximum Gas Payload | Up to 7,590 lbs |
| Maximum Diesel Payload | Up to 6,050 lbs |
Ford advertises up to 8,000 pounds of maximum payload across properly configured Super Duty trucks.
That is a strong number.
But payload changes substantially based on configuration.
A Regular Cab 4×2 work truck designed around maximum payload is different from a Crew Cab 4×4 dually with premium equipment.
Always check the payload label on the exact truck.
Why Payload Matters for One-Ton Truck Buyers
Towing receives most of the attention.
Payload can be just as important.
A fifth-wheel camper places substantial pin weight in the truck bed.
A gooseneck trailer adds weight above or near the rear axle.
A contractor may carry tools and materials every day.
A ranch owner may carry feed, fencing supplies, equipment, and passengers.
A business owner may install a toolbox, transfer tank, ladder rack, or other accessory.
Your payload calculation should include:
- Passengers
- Tools
- Cargo
- Bed accessories
- Hitch equipment
- Fifth-wheel pin weight or gooseneck tongue weight
- Fuel
- Toolboxes
- Transfer tanks
- Supplies
- Aftermarket equipment
- Future upgrades
The best truck gives you enough margin to work safely.
Single Rear Wheel vs Dual Rear Wheel RAM 3500
One of the biggest RAM 3500 decisions is whether to choose a Single Rear Wheel or Dual Rear Wheel configuration.
| Priority | RAM 3500 Single Rear Wheel | RAM 3500 Dual Rear Wheel |
| Daily-driving comfort | Better starting point | More truck than some daily drivers need |
| Parking and maneuverability | Easier | Wider rear footprint |
| Maximum towing | Strong capability | Better starting point |
| Maximum payload | Strong capability | Better starting point |
| Fifth-wheel towing | Strong fit for many trailers | Better for heavier trailers |
| Gooseneck towing | Strong fit for many trailers | Better for heavier trailers |
| Ranch work | Strong fit | Strong fit for demanding loads |
| Commercial hauling | Strong fit | Better for substantial workloads |
| Stability under heavy load | Strong fit | Stronger starting point |
| Highway towing | Strong fit | Better for maximum-duty use |
Choose a Single Rear Wheel RAM 3500 if you want:
- Heavy-duty capability
- Easier daily driving
- A narrower footprint
- Strong towing
- Strong payload
- A truck that works for personal and business use
- A fifth-wheel or gooseneck truck for moderate-to-heavy trailers
- A more manageable one-ton pickup
Choose a Dual Rear Wheel RAM 3500 if you want:
- Maximum towing capability
- Maximum payload flexibility
- More stability under heavy loads
- A truck for a heavier fifth-wheel camper
- A gooseneck trailer truck
- Commercial hauling
- Ranch work
- Equipment trailers
- A truck configured around serious work
A dually is not automatically better for every buyer.
It is better when the workload justifies it.
RAM 3500 for Fifth-Wheel Camper Towing
A RAM 3500 can be a strong fit for fifth-wheel camper owners.
Compare:
- Fully loaded camper weight
- Pin weight
- Payload
- Hitch type
- Bed length
- Cab configuration
- Single Rear Wheel vs Dual Rear Wheel
- Passenger count
- Cargo
- Fuel
- Trailer brakes
- Tire condition
- Towing frequency
- Highway mileage
- Future camper upgrades
The RAM 3500 gives RV owners access to:
- Cummins diesel torque
- Available fifth-wheel prep
- Available auto-level rear air suspension
- Available Bed Lowering Mode
- Available Trailer Reverse Steering Control
- Available Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring
- Available Digital Rearview Mirror with Tow Mode
- Available 50-gallon fuel tank on eligible models
A truck for RV travel should be chosen around the camper after it is fully loaded.
RAM 3500 for Gooseneck Trailers
A RAM 3500 can also make sense for gooseneck towing.
Potential uses include:
- Livestock trailers
- Equipment trailers
- Flatbed trailers
- Ranch trailers
- Construction equipment
- Commercial hauling
- Agricultural equipment
- Landscaping equipment
- Business supplies
A gooseneck truck should be selected around:
- Loaded trailer weight
- Tongue weight
- Payload
- Bed length
- Hitch equipment
- Drivetrain
- Axle ratio
- Single Rear Wheel vs Dual Rear Wheel
- Passenger count
- Cargo
- Route type
- Terrain
- Towing frequency
Confirm the rating of the exact truck before towing.
Available RAM Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension
The 2026 RAM 3500 offers an available class-exclusive auto-level rear air-suspension system on eligible configurations.
The system includes Bed Lowering Mode.
Bed Lowering Mode can bring the rear suspension to its lowest position to make trailer hookup easier.
That can help during:
- Fifth-wheel trailer hookup
- Gooseneck trailer hookup
- Equipment-trailer alignment
- Camper towing
- Ranch work
- Commercial towing
- Trailer positioning
- Repeated loading and unloading
The right suspension technology can make a demanding truck easier to use.
Available RAM Trailer Reverse Steering Control
Backing a large trailer can be stressful.
The RAM 3500 offers available Trailer Reverse Steering Control.
The driver uses a trailer-steering knob to guide the trailer while the system manages the truck’s steering wheel.
That can help during:
- Camper parking
- Boat-ramp backing
- Gooseneck-trailer positioning
- Equipment-trailer alignment
- Ranch work
- Jobsite access
- Storage-lot parking
- Driveway access
- Tight spaces
- Repeated commercial use
Technology does not replace safe driving.
But it can help make a large truck-and-trailer combination more manageable.
Available RAM Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring
The RAM 3500 offers available Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring with the Tow Tech Package.
The system can provide live tire-pressure readings for up to four trailers through the available 12-inch Digital Cluster Display.
That can help drivers monitor:
- Fifth-wheel camper tires
- Boat-trailer tires
- Equipment-trailer tires
- Livestock-trailer tires
- Commercial trailers
- Ranch trailers
- Long-distance RV travel
- Highway towing
- Pressure changes during a trip
Towing capability matters.
Awareness matters too.
Available Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Prep Package
The RAM 3500 offers an available Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Prep Package.
The package includes a factory-installed rear-axle structural crossmember with integrated mounting hardware that can be paired with the correct hitch.
That can help shoppers prepare for:
- Fifth-wheel campers
- Gooseneck trailers
- Livestock trailers
- Ranch trailers
- Equipment trailers
- Commercial loads
- RV travel
- Heavy towing
Confirm hitch compatibility, trailer requirements, payload, towing capacity, and professional installation needs before towing.
Available 50-Gallon RAM 3500 Fuel Tank
Eligible 2026 RAM 3500 Crew Cab models with an 8-foot bed offer an available 50-gallon fuel tank.
RAM compares this against an available 48-gallon Ford F-350 fuel tank.
Two gallons may not sound dramatic.
But added fuel capacity can be valuable during:
- Long towing days
- Rural routes
- Ranch work
- Commercial hauling
- RV travel
- Construction jobs
- Equipment transport
- Road trips
- Highway towing
- Travel between smaller towns
- Work away from convenient fuel stops
A larger fuel tank can reduce unnecessary interruptions.
RAM 3500 for Ranch Work
Central Texas ranch owners need trucks that can adapt.
A ranch truck may need to handle:
- Livestock trailers
- Feed
- Fencing supplies
- Equipment
- Tools
- Ranch roads
- Gravel
- Mud
- Long workdays
- Rural routes
- Crew members
- Property maintenance
- Agricultural supplies
- Gooseneck trailers
- Flatbed trailers
- Heavy payload
A RAM 3500 may be a strong ranch-truck option because it offers:
- HEMI gas capability
- Cummins diesel torque
- Available Single Rear Wheel and Dual Rear Wheel setups
- Payload flexibility
- Heavy-duty towing
- Available rear air suspension
- Trailer technology
- Available fifth-wheel and gooseneck prep
- Available larger fuel tank
- A practical Crew Cab option
RAM 3500 for Contractors
Contractors may choose a RAM 3500 when a light-duty or three-quarter-ton pickup no longer provides enough margin.
A contractor truck may carry:
- Tools
- Equipment
- Materials
- Lumber
- Piping
- Toolboxes
- Crew members
- Generators
- Fuel tanks
- Landscaping equipment
- Electrical supplies
- Plumbing supplies
- HVAC equipment
- Jobsite gear
- Trailer tongue weight
A RAM 3500 can make sense for:
- General contractors
- Landscapers
- Construction teams
- Roofers
- Welders
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- HVAC companies
- Ranch operators
- Equipment operators
- Property-maintenance companies
- Small-business owners
- Fleet managers
Helpful read: Best Trucks for Contractors in Georgetown TX
RAM 3500 vs RAM 2500
Not every heavy-duty shopper needs a one-ton truck.
Choose RAM 2500 if you want:
- Heavy-duty towing
- Daily flexibility
- Contractor use
- Ranch work
- Camper towing
- Equipment trailers
- HEMI gas power
- Cummins diesel torque
- A more manageable heavy-duty pickup
- A truck that balances work and personal use
Choose RAM 3500 if you want:
- More maximum towing capability
- More maximum payload capability
- Dual Rear Wheel availability
- Heavier fifth-wheel campers
- Heavier gooseneck trailers
- Commercial hauling
- Maximum-duty ranch work
- A truck with more room for future workload growth
Helpful read: 2026 RAM 2500 vs RAM 3500 Near Austin TX
RAM 3500 vs RAM 1500
Choose RAM 1500 if you want:
- Daily comfort
- Full-size truck utility
- Home projects
- Family use
- Light-to-moderate towing
- A manageable footprint
- A comfortable commuting truck
- Modern RAM technology
- Weekend flexibility
Choose RAM 3500 if you want:
- One-ton capability
- Fifth-wheel towing
- Gooseneck towing
- Dual Rear Wheel availability
- More payload
- More towing capacity
- Ranch work
- Commercial hauling
- Maximum-duty truck capability
Helpful read: 2026 RAM 1500 HEMI vs Hurricane vs Pentastar
RAM 3500 vs RAM Chassis Cab
Some businesses need more than a pickup bed.
Choose RAM 3500 if you want:
- A traditional factory-installed pickup bed
- Fifth-wheel towing
- Gooseneck towing
- Daily driving
- Ranch work
- Contractor use
- Heavy-duty hauling
- Personal and commercial flexibility
- A truck ready to use immediately
Choose RAM Chassis Cab if you want:
- A flatbed
- A utility body
- A service body
- A dump body
- A crane setup
- A welding bed
- A rancher upfit
- PTO capability
- Specialized commercial equipment
- A purpose-built work platform
The RAM 3500 is the traditional one-ton pickup.
The RAM Chassis Cab is the specialized commercial foundation.
RAM 3500 vs RAM ProMaster
Some businesses need enclosed cargo space instead of a pickup bed.
Choose RAM 3500 if you want:
- Towing
- Payload
- Ranch-road flexibility
- Open-bed utility
- Fifth-wheel capability
- Gooseneck capability
- Heavy-duty pickup strength
- Contractor use
- Equipment hauling
Choose RAM ProMaster if you want:
- Enclosed cargo
- Shelving
- Tool organization
- Weather protection
- Delivery capability
- A mobile workspace
- Multiple roof heights
- Multiple cargo lengths
- A contractor van
- A service-call vehicle
Helpful read: 2026 RAM ProMaster Cargo Van Near Austin TX
Best RAM Commercial Vehicle for Your Business
| Business Need | Best Starting Point |
| Daily truck, estimates, family use, and light-to-moderate towing | RAM 1500 |
| Contractor towing, ranch work, campers, and equipment trailers | RAM 2500 |
| Maximum pickup towing, payload, fifth-wheel, gooseneck, and dually needs | RAM 3500 |
| Flatbed, service body, utility body, dump body, crane body, or PTO setup | RAM Chassis Cab |
| Enclosed cargo, shelving, delivery routes, and mobile service | RAM ProMaster |
| Electric local-delivery van | RAM ProMaster EV |
Start here: Browse Commercial Vehicles
Used Heavy-Duty Trucks Near Austin
A new RAM 3500 may make sense if you want:
- Current HEMI and Cummins engines
- New warranty coverage
- Exact trim preference
- Exact color preference
- Latest towing technology
- Current offers when available
- A truck configured around future needs
- Dual Rear Wheel availability
- A longer ownership timeline
A used heavy-duty truck may make sense if you want:
- Lower purchase price
- Lower monthly payment
- More model years
- More brands to compare
- Pre-owned diesel value
- A second work truck
- A ranch truck
- A crew vehicle
- More budget flexibility
Start here:
Helpful read: Used Trucks Under $30K Near Austin TX
Trade In Your Current Truck
Your current truck, SUV, van, or commercial vehicle may help you move into a RAM 3500 sooner than expected.
A trade-in can help you:
- Lower your purchase amount
- Reduce your amount financed
- Upgrade an aging truck
- Replace a high-mileage vehicle
- Add towing capability
- Add payload capability
- Move into Cummins diesel power
- Move into a dually
- Add fifth-wheel or gooseneck capability
- Replace a truck that no longer fits the workload
- Avoid selling privately
- Simplify the buying process
- Expand a business fleet
Mac Haik CDJR Georgetown is looking for quality used vehicles, including:
- Heavy-duty trucks
- Work trucks
- Ranch trucks
- Commercial vehicles
- Fleet vehicles
- Cargo vans
- Pickups
- SUVs
- Cars
- Contractor trucks
- Vehicles from other major brands
Start here: Sell Us Your Car
Helpful read: Trade In Your Car Near Austin TX
Business Tax Savings Information
A heavy-duty work-truck purchase may have tax implications for your company.
Eligibility, deductions, depreciation, business-use requirements, timing, and tax treatment depend on the business, vehicle, and current tax rules.
Mac Haik CDJR Georgetown provides a business-tax-savings resource to help commercial shoppers start the conversation.
Start here: Review Business Tax Savings Information
Speak with a qualified tax professional before making a purchase decision based on potential tax treatment.
Financing a New RAM 3500
Our finance team can help you review available options for a new RAM 3500 or another commercial vehicle.
Start here:
- Finance Center
- Apply for Financing
- Payment Calculator
- Browse Commercial Vehicles
- Review Business Tax Savings Information
Before choosing a one-ton truck, review:
- Business or household budget
- Down payment
- Trade-in value
- Loaded trailer weight
- Fifth-wheel pin weight
- Gooseneck tongue weight
- Payload
- Crew needs
- Gas vs diesel
- Towing frequency
- Daily mileage
- Route type
- Ranch-road conditions
- Jobsite conditions
- Cab configuration
- Bed length
- Single Rear Wheel vs Dual Rear Wheel
- Axle ratio
- Hitch type
- Equipment
- Future trailer upgrades
- Long-term ownership plans
The best truck should fit the workload today and still leave room for tomorrow.
RAM 3500 Service in Georgetown TX
A heavy-duty truck needs consistent maintenance.
Routine service is especially important if the truck is used for towing, payload, commercial work, Texas heat, long highway trips, ranch roads, or jobsite driving.
Our service team can help with:
- Oil changes
- Tire service
- Tire rotations
- Brake inspections
- Battery checks
- AC service
- Filter replacement
- Cooling-system service
- Fluid checks
- Alignments
- Multi-point inspections
- Diesel service
- HEMI maintenance
- Cummins maintenance
- Towing-related inspections
- Scheduled maintenance
- Mopar parts
- Work-truck service
Start here:
Helpful read: CDJR Service Specials Near Austin TX
Shop 2026 RAM 3500 Trucks Near Austin at Mac Haik CDJR Georgetown
Mac Haik Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Georgetown is located at:
5255 S Interstate 35
Georgetown, TX 78626
Call our sales team at 512-316-0737.
We proudly serve one-ton truck shoppers from Georgetown, Round Rock, Austin, Leander, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Hutto, Liberty Hill, Jarrell, Temple, and surrounding Central Texas communities.
Whether you need a RAM 3500 HEMI, RAM 3500 Cummins diesel, Single Rear Wheel RAM 3500, dually RAM 3500, Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, Limited, fifth-wheel truck, gooseneck truck, ranch truck, contractor truck, camper-towing truck, equipment hauler, or commercial pickup, our team can help you compare current inventory and find the right fit.
Start here:
- Shop New RAM 3500 Inventory
- Compare New RAM 2500 Trucks
- Browse New RAM 1500 Trucks
- Browse Commercial Vehicles
- Shop RAM Chassis Cab Inventory
- Shop RAM ProMaster Inventory
- Sell Us Your Current Truck
- Finance Center
- Schedule Service
FAQ
Which is better: RAM 3500 or Ford F-350 Super Duty?
The better truck depends on your workload. RAM 3500 is a strong fit if you want Cummins diesel power, a straightforward gas-or-diesel lineup, up to 36,610 pounds of towing capability, up to 7,590 pounds of gas payload, available auto-level rear air suspension, available Trailer Reverse Steering Control, and an available 50-gallon fuel tank on eligible models. Ford F-350 is worth comparing if you prioritize higher maximum diesel horsepower, higher maximum diesel torque, more engine options, or properly configured F-350 DRW fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing of up to 38,600 pounds.
What engines are available in the 2026 RAM 3500?
The 2026 RAM 3500 offers a standard 6.4L HEMI V8 and an available High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6.
How much horsepower does the 2026 RAM 3500 HEMI have?
The 6.4L HEMI V8 produces 405 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
How much horsepower does the 2026 RAM 3500 Cummins diesel have?
The High-Output 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 produces 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
How much can the 2026 RAM 3500 tow?
The 2026 RAM 3500 can tow up to 18,150 pounds with the HEMI V8 and up to 36,610 pounds with the High-Output Cummins diesel when properly equipped.
What is the payload capacity of the RAM 3500?
The 2026 RAM 3500 offers up to 7,590 pounds of gas payload capacity and up to 6,050 pounds of diesel payload capacity when properly equipped.
How much can the Ford F-350 tow?
Certain properly configured 2026 Ford F-350 Dual Rear Wheel models can reach up to 38,600 pounds of fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing capacity. Maximum conventional towing and hitch ratings vary by configuration.
Does the Ford F-350 tow 40,000 pounds?
Ford advertises a 40,000-pound maximum Super Duty gooseneck towing figure, but that headline requires a properly configured Ford F-450 with the 40K Gooseneck Tow Package. It should not be treated as the towing rating of every Ford F-350.
Does Ford F-350 have more diesel torque than RAM 3500?
The available High-Output Ford Power Stroke diesel produces up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque. The RAM 3500 High-Output Cummins diesel produces 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
Does RAM 3500 have a dually configuration?
Yes. The RAM 3500 is available in Dual Rear Wheel configurations depending on the selected cab, drivetrain, bed, and inventory.
Should I buy a Single Rear Wheel or Dual Rear Wheel RAM 3500?
Choose a Single Rear Wheel RAM 3500 if you want heavy-duty capability with easier daily driving. Choose a Dual Rear Wheel RAM 3500 if your workload requires more stability, more payload flexibility, and maximum towing capability.
Is RAM 3500 good for fifth-wheel camper towing?
Yes. A properly configured RAM 3500 can be a strong fit for fifth-wheel camper towing. Compare loaded camper weight, pin weight, payload, passengers, cargo, hitch equipment, bed length, and Single Rear Wheel vs Dual Rear Wheel configurations before choosing.
Is RAM 3500 good for gooseneck towing?
Yes. A properly configured RAM 3500 can be a strong option for gooseneck trailers, livestock trailers, equipment trailers, ranch trailers, and commercial hauling.
Does RAM 3500 offer rear air suspension?
Yes. The 2026 RAM 3500 offers an available auto-level rear air-suspension system on eligible configurations. The system includes Bed Lowering Mode to help make trailer hookup easier.
Does RAM 3500 offer trailer reverse steering?
Yes. The 2026 RAM 3500 offers available Trailer Reverse Steering Control.
Does RAM 3500 offer a fifth-wheel and gooseneck prep package?
Yes. The RAM 3500 offers an available Fifth-Wheel and Gooseneck Prep Package with integrated mounting hardware.
Does RAM 3500 have a 50-gallon fuel tank?
Eligible 2026 RAM 3500 Crew Cab models with an 8-foot bed offer an available 50-gallon fuel tank.
Should I buy a RAM 2500 or RAM 3500?
Choose RAM 2500 if you want heavy-duty capability with more daily flexibility. Choose RAM 3500 if you need more towing, more payload, dually availability, heavier fifth-wheel towing, heavier gooseneck towing, or more commercial capability.
Should I buy a RAM 3500 pickup or RAM Chassis Cab?
Choose RAM 3500 if you want a traditional pickup bed and heavy-duty towing. Choose RAM Chassis Cab if your business needs a specialized upfit such as a flatbed, service body, utility body, dump body, crane body, welding bed, or PTO-capable commercial platform.
Where can I shop RAM 3500 trucks near Austin TX?
You can shop new RAM 3500 inventory at Mac Haik Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Georgetown, located at 5255 S Interstate 35, Georgetown, TX 78626.
Disclaimer
Vehicle specifications, horsepower, torque, payload, towing capacity, conventional towing, fifth-wheel towing, gooseneck towing, GVWR, GCWR, drivetrain, axle ratio, cab configuration, bed length, Single Rear Wheel configurations, Dual Rear Wheel configurations, fuel-tank capacity, rear air suspension, trailer technology, hitch equipment, trims, colors, inventory, pricing, incentives, financing programs, tax treatment, and competitor information may change. Maximum ratings apply only when properly equipped. Payload and towing capacity vary based on equipment, passengers, accessories, cargo, hitch equipment, and vehicle configuration. Competitor specifications are based on manufacturer-published information and should be verified for the exact vehicle. Speak with a qualified tax professional before making a purchase decision based on potential tax treatment. Confirm the specifications of the specific RAM 3500 or competing truck you are considering.
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