*Not actual model
Morgan Hill Ram - The 2026 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab's Upfit-Ready Strength for Growing Fleets around San Jose, CA
When you’re choosing a heavy-duty vocational truck, the conversation often begins with raw numbers but ends with real-world upfit details. The 2026 Ram Chassis Cab brings both to the job site: proven engine options, a frame that welcomes body equipment, and cabin tech that helps crews work smarter. For fleet managers coordinating mixed routes, PTO-driven tools, and tight delivery windows, those details matter. Our focus here is on two aspects owners ask about most: the upfit-friendly foundation and the engine decision between the 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 and the 6.4L HEMI® V8.
Let’s start with the platform. The Chassis Cab’s straight, flat frame rails, multiple cab-to-axle configurations, and heavy-duty suspension packages are engineered to simplify mounting for flatbeds, utility bodies, dumps, and service units. That means less fabrication complexity and cleaner routing for wiring, hydraulics, and PTO plumbing. Inside, available auxiliary upfitter switches integrate into the dash, while the available 12-inch Uconnect® touchscreen provides a crisp interface for navigation, camera feeds, and work apps your crew uses daily.
- Frame geometry: Flat, straight rails designed for efficient body mounting and cleaner equipment integration
- Upfitter support: The Ram Body Builder’s Guide offers GCWR, axle ratings, and dimensional drawings to streamline spec decisions
- Electrical capacity: Available dual alternators and integrated switchgear help power tools, lighting, and specialized equipment
- Cab tech: Available 12-inch Uconnect® display, clear camera views, and helpful storage keep the cockpit organized
Engine selection is where the second major decision lands. The available 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 delivers 800 pound-feet of maximum torque and 360 maximum horsepower, with a maximum trailering capacity of 34,540 pounds when properly equipped. This setup suits heavy tow cycles, long grades, and PTO-intensive workflows where low-end torque and an available exhaust brake can reduce driver strain. The available 6.4L HEMI® V8 produces 429 pound-feet of maximum torque and 375 maximum horsepower, with a maximum trailering capacity of 21,240 pounds when properly equipped. It shines in regional delivery and service routes, especially with frequent starts and stops or lighter bodies that benefit from the V8’s crisp throttle response.
- Diesel choice: Prioritize sustained towing, long grades, and PTO usage where diesel torque and an available exhaust brake add control
- Gas choice: Favor mixed urban routes, lighter upfits, and quick off-the-line response for frequent stop-and-go days
- Lifecycle planning: Align service intervals, fuel strategy, and duty cycles to the engine’s strengths for predictable uptime
- Driver feedback: Demo both powertrains with typical loads to capture crew input on drivability and control
Beyond the spec sheet, cabin time matters. Crews value heavy-duty seating, durable flooring, and straightforward controls. The Chassis Cab’s available 12-inch Uconnect® touchscreen reduces friction with a modern interface for navigation and camera views, and the truck’s ergonomics—like large knobs, clear switchgear, and accessible storage—support gloved operation. Available camera systems can aid trailer hook-ups and tight-space maneuvering, which is especially useful when urban deliveries and job site access both live on the same dispatch board.
At Morgan Hill Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, serving San Jose, Monterey, and Carmel Valley, our commercial specialists help teams compare engine feel, upfit timelines, and accessory compatibility before finalizing an order. That includes validating clearances, wiring paths, and PTO requirements against the Ram Body Builder’s Guide to minimize surprises after the truck arrives. Whether you’re adding a single unit or expanding a fleet, the goal is the same—spec a chassis that goes to work on day one and supports future growth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I equip the Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 with a PTO?
Yes, PTO capability is available, and our team can help coordinate transmission and equipment compatibility so your hydraulic or mechanical systems operate reliably.
What are the maximum trailering numbers for the 2026 Ram Chassis Cab?
The available 6.7L Cummins® Turbo Diesel I6 offers a maximum trailering capacity of 34,540 pounds when properly equipped, while the available 6.4L HEMI® V8 offers up to 21,240 pounds when properly equipped.
Is the 12-inch Uconnect® touchscreen available across configurations?
Availability varies by trim and configuration, but many builds can be equipped with the high-definition 12-inch Uconnect® display for navigation, camera views, and smartphone integration.
How does the Ram Body Builder’s Guide help my upfit timeline?
It provides dimensional drawings, electrical data, and key ratings like GCWR and axle capacities, helping your upfitter plan mounts, clearances, and wiring paths before the truck arrives, which can shorten installation time.