By the second weekend of June, the boat ramps at Possum Kingdom Lake are busy by sunrise. The ride from Graham is short, which is exactly why people skip the checks they would do before a long haul.
A boat behind a half ton is a normal sight in Young County, and a bad day at the ramp is almost always something small that was missed. This list covers what to look at on a Ram 1500 before you hook up, and which parts a shop can handle.
Quick answer: Before towing, check tires on the truck and the trailer, brakes, fluid levels, the hitch, the lights and the battery. Confirm your tow rating on the truck's sticker, and have Holiday CDJR's service department look at anything you're unsure about, since summer heat makes weak parts show up.
What should you check before towing a boat to Possum Kingdom?
Start with the tires on both the truck and the trailer. Check pressure cold, look at the sidewalls for cracks and confirm the spare is usable. Trailer tires age out before they wear out. A trailer that sat all winter deserves a close look.
Then check the hitch, the safety chains, the coupler and the lights. Walk around with a helper while you step on the brakes, work the turn signals and flip the hazards.
Finally, check the ramp plan. Know how you'll back down, where you'll park and who's holding the line.
Lake roads add their own surprises. Gravel shoulders, tight turns at the marina and a steep ramp can all change how the trailer tracks, so go slowly the first time you pull in.
Tires. Truck, trailer and spare, checked cold.
Hitch and lights. Ball, coupler, chains and every light, confirmed with a helper.
Fluids and battery. Oil, coolant and brake fluid levels, and a battery that starts every time.
Does your Ram 1500 have the tow package it needs?
Check the door jamb sticker for the payload and the owner's manual for the tow rating on your exact truck. Engine, axle ratio and equipment all change the number, and a bass boat, trailer and gear weigh more than most people expect.
A trailer brake controller helps if your trailer has brakes. If your truck doesn't have one, ask the parts department what fits your Ram.
Don't guess: weigh the loaded trailer at a scale if you're close to the rating.
Tongue weight: too light and the trailer sways, too heavy and the truck sags.
How does RamBox help at the ramp?
RamBox storage, available on the Ram 1500, puts lockable, drainable bins in the bed rails. For a lake day that means ropes, flotation vests, tie downs and a first aid kit stay dry and out of the way.
It's an option, so ask whether the truck you like has it. If you're buying for lake duty, it's worth asking about before the build is final.
Trailer tires age out before they wear out.
What does summer heat do to a towing truck?
Towing makes the engine and transmission work harder, and North Texas heat makes cooling harder. Watch the temperature gauge on long grades, and ease off the throttle if it climbs.
A shop can inspect coolant, belts, hoses and the radiator before you leave. The Express Lane lists coolant and fluid level checks, and the service department handles cooling system repair.
If the truck has a lot of miles or has never had the transmission fluid checked, ask about it. Those fluids work hard when a boat is behind the truck, and old fluid is cheap compared with a transmission repair.
Graham tip: Leave early. A Saturday departure at six beats the afternoon heat and the line at the ramp.
What should a shop look at first?
Brakes and tires are the first two. Fluids and the battery come next, followed by belts and hoses. If you're towing regularly, make it a habit before each season rather than after a scare.
You can add a quick look to an oil change in the Express Lane, or book a full inspection with the service department.
Schedule online, call (940) 532-6403 or add a quick check to an oil change in the Express Lane. Tell the advisor you're towing so the right items get a look.
Use the Express LaneBefore the trip
How do I find my Ram 1500's tow rating?
Check the owner's manual and the stickers on the truck. The rating changes by engine and equipment.
Do I need a trailer brake controller?
If your trailer has electric brakes, yes. Ask the parts department what fits your Ram.
How often should I check trailer tires?
Before every trip, and replace them as they age even if the tread looks good.
On the road
What speed is safe when towing?
Follow posted limits and drive at a pace where you feel in control. Leave extra following distance.
What if my truck starts to run hot?
Ease off, turn off the AC and pull over when it's safe. Let it cool and call for help.
Does towing change my oil change schedule?
It can. Check the severe service schedule in your manual.
Equipment and storage
What is RamBox?
It's optional bed rail storage on the Ram 1500, with lockable bins that drain.
Can I add a hitch or accessories later?
Yes, ask the parts department about Mopar accessories for your truck.
Do I need a different mirror setup?
Some trailers are wider than the truck. Check your view and add extension mirrors if you need them.
Service and booking
Can the Express Lane check my fluids?
It lists coolant and fluid level checks, along with a multipoint checkup.
How do I book a towing prep check?
Use the Schedule Service page or call (940) 532-6403. Mention the trailer.
Are there coupons that apply before a lake trip?
The Mopar Parts Specials page lists coupons that expire December 31, 2026. Open the details to see what each one covers.
Shopping for a tow truck
What Ram 1500 trims suit towing?
Many trims can tow when equipped. Check the Ram 1500 specials page and the inventory for current trucks.
Which Graham address do I use for service?
It's 1609 US Highway 380, Graham, Texas 76450.
Is the lake close to Graham?
Possum Kingdom Lake is a short drive down Highway 16, which is why many Graham families keep a boat on it.