RAM 1500 DT Chassis Bracing – Everything Aussie Owners Need to Know
- Haydn
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 21
The RAM 1500 DT is a solid towing platform with serious capability, but there’s a catch...If you’re towing heavy, loading it to GVM, or running a canopy full-time, you’re putting constant stress on the rear of the chassis. Add in a few thousand kilometres of corrugated roads, and that flex starts to take its toll - especially around the rear coil towers, which are a known weak point on the DT platform.
RAM 1500 DT Chassis Bracing: Why It’s a Must for Heavy Towing in Australia
The 1500 might tow more than a regular dual cab, but if you’re doing lots of kilometres with a 3.5-tonne caravan or hauling a large horse float, you’re using it like a 2500. That’s when cracks, sagging, and fatigue show up.
We first noticed the issue on our own RAM 1500 after heavy towing started flexing the chassis more than it should. Since then, we’ve seen the same cracking, sagging, and misalignment on other RAMs towing caravans or hauling heavy loads. That’s why we’ve partnered with Superior Engineering to offer a proven chassis brace kit (developed using our own RAM 1500 for R&D) to help prevent failures before they happen.
Here’s everything you need to know to protect your RAM from serious chassis failure!
Why Do RAM 1500 DT Chassis Crack?
The RAM 1500 DT might be a beast on paper, but when you're towing heavy, loading up the tub, or bouncing down a corrugated track, the RAM's rear chassis cops a flogging. Over time, this flex and stress can cause the chassis to crack - especially around the coil towers.
What Causes Chassis Flex in a RAM 1500 DT?
Chassis flex is caused by repeated stress from heavy towing, rough roads, and added weight in the rear—especially from 4000kg caravans, horse floats, large boats and canopies they all contribute. The rear coil tower area is a known weak point where flex accumulates, eventually leading to cracks or bends.
Is It Common for RAM 1500s to Crack Near the Coil Towers?
Yes. It's the most common failure point we see in our workshop. The chassis rail around the coil towers takes a beating under load, particularly with long-range towing and constant rear weight. That’s where the Superior Engineering chassis brace kit targets reinforcement.
Is the RAM 1500 Chassis Strong Enough for Towing in Australia?
Technically, yes. It's rated to tow 4500kg. But under constant load - either towing frequently or that's on smooth roads, not outback corrugations or long-haul tows with a 400kg ball weight and a canopy full of gear. Bracing reinforces known weak points, giving your RAM the structure it needs to handle Aussie loads without flinching.
Why Is My RAM 1500 Chassis Bending at the Rear?
If your chassis is bending or sagging at the rear, it's likely due to a constant heavy load from towing or a loaded canopy setup. The rear section near the coil towers is especially vulnerable. It’s not always a sudden break—it can start as subtle flexing and eventually turn into structural fatigue. That’s why chassis bracing is best done as a preventative measure, not a repair.
Signs of RAM 1500 DT Chassis Failure While Towing
Uneven gaps between tub and cab, visible cracks in the chassis near coil towers, rear end sagging, vehicle feels unstable under load. Spot any of these? Time to act.
How Much Can You Safely Tow with a RAM 1500 DT in Australia?
It’s rated for 4500kg, but here’s the catch: the kerb weight is about 2,749kg, and the GVM is 3,450kg. Tow a full 4.5T and your 450kg ball weight eats up nearly all your payload. Add passengers, fuel, or a canopy, and you're likely overweight.
This is why a GVM upgrade and chassis bracing are essential if you’re towing big.
Can I Stop My RAM 1500 DT Chassis from Flexing?
Yes. That’s what our RAM chassis brace kit does. Stop flex before it turns into expensive cracks.
What’s the Best Chassis Brace Kit for RAM 1500?
You’re reading about it. The Superior Engineering chassis brace kit for the RAM 1500 DT is our go-to. It’s designed specifically for the known weak points and was developed in partnership with us here at BAW Automotive.
Where Can I Get a RAM 1500 Chassis Brace Installed in Brisbane?
Right here at BAW Automotive. Trade qualified, ROVER certified, and we’ve built more RAMs than we can count.
How Long Does It Take to Install the Chassis Brace?
Generally, 1 to 2 weeks depending on what else is in your build. We’ll keep you updated along the way.
Brace It Before It Breaks
Waiting until your chassis cracks isn’t a good plan. Warranty claims are hard to win, especially if you’ve modified the vehicle, and a cracked chassis can leave you stranded...or worse.
If you’re planning to tow heavy, carry big loads, or tour long-term, get it braced. The Superior Engineering kit, installed by BAW, is the preventative insurance you need. Watch our YouTube video here where Brent explains how we found the issue and what we did to solve it.
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