RAM Towing Guide Yankton

RAM Towing Guide Yankton South Dakota

RAM TOWING GUIDE FOR YANKTON, SOUTH DAKOTA EXPLORERS


Whether you're navigating the scenic landscapes around Yankton, South Dakota, or venturing into neighboring areas like Vermillion and Elk Point, towing safely and effectively is paramount. Our RAM Towing Guide is your starting point for mastering the art of towing, ensuring your adventures are smooth and worry-free.

Load Heavy Cargo First

Properly loading your cargo is the first step to safe towing. Aim to distribute approximately 60% of the cargo weight in the front half of your trailer and 40% in the rear, maintaining side-to-side balance and a low center of gravity.

Secure Your Load

Once loaded, securing your cargo is essential to prevent shifting during transit. Utilize nylon rope or towing straps to tie down your cargo securely, minimizing the risk of instability on the road.

Types of Hitches Available for RAM Models

Receiver Hitch: The receiver hitch is the most common type of hitch used for RAM models, suitable for towing boats or trailers weighing up to 10,000 pounds. It offers versatility and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of towing needs. Whether you're hauling equipment for work or gear for a weekend adventure, the receiver hitch provides reliable performance and towing capability.

Fifth Wheel Hitch: For those towing larger loads such as R/Vs and heavy trailers, the fifth wheel hitch is an indispensable option. Resembling the horseshoe-shaped hitch found on big rigs, it provides superior stability and control, making it ideal for towing heavier loads with confidence. With its robust design and advanced engineering, the fifth wheel hitch ensures smooth and secure towing, even on challenging terrain.

Gooseneck Hitch: When it comes to towing the heaviest loads your RAM truck can handle, the gooseneck hitch is the ultimate choice. Mounted in the bed of the truck, it offers unparalleled strength and durability, making it suitable for heavy-duty towing tasks such as hauling construction equipment or large trailers. With its rugged construction and exceptional towing capacity, the gooseneck hitch empowers you to tackle the toughest jobs with ease and efficiency.

Selecting the right hitch for your RAM model is essential for maximizing towing performance and safety. Whether you're hauling recreational gear for weekend getaways or tackling heavy-duty workloads, Broadway Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM offers a range of hitch options to suit your towing needs. Consult with our expert team to find the perfect hitch for your RAM truck that gets the job done right.

Contact

Broadway Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Inc.

2720 Broadway Ave
Directions Yankton, SD 57078-4826

  • Sales: 605-653-5541
  • Service: 605-653-2725
  • Parts: 605-857-8187

Hours

  • Monday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Tuesday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Wednesday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Thursday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Friday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Saturday08:00AM - 04:00PM
  • SundayClosed

RAM Features That Make Towing Easier

Equip your RAM with features like the Four Corner Air Suspension, providing automatic load leveling for confident towing. The Trailer-Tow Group package includes essentials like a class IV receiver hitch and power trailer tow mirrors for enhanced visibility and control.

Tips for Driving RAM With A Trailer

       
  1. Go Slow: Towing a loaded trailer requires patience and caution. Accelerate and brake gradually, allowing for increased stopping distances. Drive as you would on an icy road, maintaining a safe distance between your truck and other vehicles.
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  3. Passing: When passing slower vehicles, exercise caution and obey all traffic laws. Be mindful of your trailer's length and ensure you have enough clearance before returning to your lane. The additional weight of the trailer may result in slower acceleration, so plan your passing maneuvers accordingly.
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  5. Maintain Control: If you feel the trailer starting to sway or whip, ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt steering or braking maneuvers. Letting off the gas allows the trailer to regain stability. If necessary, gradually apply the brakes to bring both the truck and trailer to a controlled stop.
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  7. Wide Turns: Remember that the longer the trailer, the wider the turn radius. Swing wide while turning to avoid clipping obstacles or encroaching on adjacent lanes. Utilize your mirrors to monitor the trailer's path and ensure clearance around tight corners.
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  9. Backing Up: Mastering the art of backing up with a trailer takes practice and patience. Place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and make small, deliberate adjustments to guide the trailer. If the trailer begins to jackknife, pull forward to straighten it out before continuing. Enlist a spotter to assist you, especially in tight or confined spaces.
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  11. Uneven Terrain: When navigating uneven terrain or steep inclines, exercise caution and reduce speed accordingly. If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, downshift when ascending or descending hills to maintain control and prevent excessive strain on the engine and brakes.
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RAM Towing Glossary


Light Duty Truck: A versatile vehicle capable of towing boats, ATVs, or trailers. Models like the RAM 1500 offer a perfect balance of power and efficiency for recreational towing needs.

Heavy Duty Truck: Designed for towing heavy commercial loads or equipment, heavy-duty trucks like the RAM 2500 and 3500 offer exceptional towing capacity and capability. Ideal for hauling R/Vs, horse trailers, or construction equipment.

Curb Weight: The weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo, including fuel, fluids, and standard equipment.

Payload: The transported load or freight, excluding the weight of the trailer or tow vehicle. It represents the maximum weight the vehicle can carry in addition to its own weight.

Tongue Weight: The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. Proper distribution of tongue weight is crucial for maintaining stability and control while towing.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum allowable weight of a fully loaded vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and payload. Exceeding the GVWR compromises vehicle safety and performance.

Gross Trailer Weight Rating (GTWR): The maximum allowable weight of the trailer and its cargo, including tongue weight. Exceeding the GTWR increases the risk of trailer instability and structural damage.


Explore Yankton, South Dakota, and beyond with confidence, knowing you have the knowledge and resources to tow safely and efficiently. Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or tackling heavy-duty workloads, trust RAM and Broadway Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM to elevate your towing experience.

  1. Broadway Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Inc.

    2720 Broadway Ave
    Yankton, SD 57078-4826

    • Sales: 605-653-5541
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Get in Touch

  • Contact our Sales Department at: 605-653-5541
  • Monday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Tuesday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Wednesday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Thursday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Friday08:00AM - 06:00PM
  • Saturday08:00AM - 04:00PM
  • SundayClosed