What Is Ram Tow Assist Kit?
If you’re a car enthusiast or a DIY mechanic, you’ve probably heard of a tow assist kit. But what is the RAM tow assist kit and how does it work? In this blog post, we’ll explore the features and benefits of this kit and how it can improve your towing experience.
What Is Ram Tow Assist Kit
The RAM tow assist kit is a factory-installed option that is available on certain models of RAM trucks. It is designed to improve the stability and control of your vehicle while towing heavy loads. The kit includes a number of components that work together to provide a more comfortable and safer towing experience.
The main component of the RAM tow assist kit is the supplemental hydraulic brake system. This system consists of a hydraulic pump, brake lines, and a control module. The pump is mounted on the frame of the truck and is powered by the engine. It pumps brake fluid through the lines to the brake calipers, which apply the brakes to the wheels.
The control module is the brains of the system. It receives input from sensors and uses algorithms to calculate the appropriate brake pressure for each wheel. This ensures that the brakes are applied evenly and consistently, which helps to improve stability and control.
In addition to the supplemental brake system, the RAM tow assist kit also includes a number of other features. These include a trailer brake controller, a trailer sway control system, and a load-leveling suspension.
The trailer brake controller is a device that allows you to adjust the brake pressure of the trailer brakes. It allows you to fine-tune the braking force to match the weight and size of your trailer. This can help to improve stability and reduce the risk of jackknifing.
The trailer sway control system uses sensors to detect when the trailer is swaying or fishtailing. It then applies the brakes to individual wheels to help correct the sway and bring the trailer back in line. This can be especially useful when towing in windy or slippery conditions.
The load-leveling suspension is a system that automatically adjusts the air pressure in the truck’s air springs to maintain a level ride height. This helps to keep the truck and trailer level, which can improve stability and reduce strain on the suspension.
Why Choose the RAM Tow Assist Kit?
There are several reasons why you might want to consider adding the RAM tow assist kit to your truck. Here are a few of the main benefits:
Improved Stability and Control: The main advantage of the RAM tow assist kit is the improved stability and control it provides. The supplemental brake system and trailer sway control system work together to help keep your vehicle and trailer in line, which can make towing heavy loads feel much more comfortable and secure.
Easier Brake Adjustment: The trailer brake controller allows you to easily adjust the brake pressure of the trailer brakes. This can be especially useful if you are towing different types of trailers with different weight and size requirements.
Level Ride Height: The load-leveling suspension helps to keep your truck and trailer level, which can reduce strain on the suspension and improve ride comfort.
Easy to Use: The RAM tow assist kit is easy to use and requires minimal setup. The control module automatically adjusts the brake pressure based on input from the sensors, so you don’t have to worry about manually adjusting the brakes.
Compatible with a Wide Range of Trailers: The RAM tow assist kit is compatible with a wide range of trailers, including boat trailers, horse trailers, and utility trailers. This makes it a versatile option for anyone who frequently tows different types of loads.
How to Install the RAM Tow Assist Kit
If you are considering adding the RAM tow assist kit to your truck, you’ll want to make sure it is compatible with your vehicle. The kit is available on certain models of RAM trucks and is usually offered as an optional factory-installed option. If you’re not sure if your truck is compatible, you can check with a RAM dealer or the manufacturer.
If your truck is compatible with the RAM tow assist kit and you decide to go ahead with the installation, you’ll want to make sure you have the right tools and equipment. This will likely include a hydraulic jack, jack stands, a torque wrench, and a variety of sockets and wrenches. You may also need a brake line flaring tool, depending on the specifics of your installation.
The installation process will vary depending on the model of your truck and the specifics of the kit. However, in general, you can expect to follow these steps:
- Raise and secure the truck: Use a hydraulic jack to lift the truck off the ground and place it on jack stands. This will give you access to the undercarriage and make it easier to work on the truck.
- Install the hydraulic pump: The hydraulic pump is usually mounted on the frame of the truck, near the rear of the vehicle. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to install the pump and connect it to the engine.
- Install the brake lines: The brake lines run from the pump to the brake calipers. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to route the lines through the undercarriage of the truck and connect them to the calipers.
- Install the control module: The control module is usually mounted in the cab of the truck, near the dashboard. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to install the module and connect it to the pump and the brake lines.
- Install the trailer brake controller: The trailer brake controller is usually mounted in the cab of the truck, near the dashboard. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to install the controller and connect it to the control module and the trailer brakes.
- Test the system: Once the kit is installed, it’s important to test the system to make sure everything is working properly. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to perform a series of tests to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly.
Conclusion
The RAM tow assist kit is a factory-installed option that is designed to improve the stability and control of your vehicle while towing heavy loads. It includes a supplemental hydraulic brake system, a trailer brake controller, a trailer sway control system, and a load-leveling suspension. These components work together to provide a more comfortable and safer towing experience. If you frequently tow heavy loads and want to improve the stability and control of your vehicle, the RAM tow assist kit is a great option to consider. So, this is all about the RAM tow assist kit.