Dodge 5500 Dump Truck for Sale: Heavy-Duty Models & Listings
If you’re in the market for a true workhorse capable of handling the most demanding construction, mining, or large-scale landscaping jobs, your search likely begins and ends with finding a reliable Dodge 5500 dump truck for sale. As a truck reviewer with over a decade of experience putting heavy-duty vehicles through their paces, I can tell you that the Ram 5500 chassis cab, when paired with the right dump body, creates an unparalleled tool for business. This guide cuts through the noise to give you the straight facts on available models, key specifications, and what to look for in listings, ensuring you make an informed investment that boosts your operation’s productivity.
Understanding the Dodge Ram 5500 Dump Truck Platform
It’s crucial to start with the foundation. When we talk about a “Dodge 5500 dump truck,” we’re referring to a Ram 5500 Chassis Cab equipped with an aftermarket dump body installation. Ram Trucks provides the incredibly robust chassis, powertrain, and cab, while specialized upfitters install the hydraulic dump bed. This combination results in a vehicle engineered for severe duty, offering a superior blend of payload capacity, power, and maneuverability compared to many larger, less agile conventional dump trucks.
Core Specifications and Capabilities
The modern Ram 5500 is built around a high-strength steel frame designed to handle significant stress. Its heart is the legendary 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine, producing 370 horsepower and a staggering 850 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting 68RFE 6-speed automatic transmission or an available ASIN 6-speed automatic. This powertrain is renowned for its durability and towing prowess.
Where it truly shines for dump truck applications is in its payload. A properly configured Ram 5500 dump truck can legally and safely carry between 7,000 to 9,000 pounds of payload, depending on the specific chassis configuration (wheelbase, cab style) and the weight of the dump body itself. This makes it ideal for hauling materials like gravel, sand, dirt, and asphalt to job sites that larger trucks cannot easily access.
Key Factors When Evaluating Listings
Not all Dodge 5500 dump trucks for sale are created equal. Scrutinizing the details in a listing can save you from costly headaches down the road. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Dump Body Details: Material (steel or aluminum), dimensions (length/width/height), and capacity (cubic yards). A 10-12 ft steel body is common. Check the condition of the hydraulic pump, cylinders, and the bed floor for rust or damage.
- Chassis Configuration: Note the wheelbase (often 168 inches or more for dump applications), cab type (Regular Cab or Crew Cab), and drivetrain (4×2 or 4×4). 4×4 is invaluable for muddy or unimproved job sites.
- Service and Maintenance History: A well-documented history is golden. Look for records consistent with heavy-duty use, especially for the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system and transmission servicing.
- Upfitter Quality: The installation quality of the dump body is paramount. Research the upfitter brand if possible; reputable installers ensure proper weight distribution and electrical/hydraulic integration.
Heavy-Duty Models and Common Configurations
The market typically features two distinct categories: newer model year trucks with lower mileage and well-maintained older workhorses. Model years from 2013 onward feature the more refined interior and improved emissions systems. A popular configuration is a 2016-2019 Ram 5500 Crew Cab 4×4 with a 12-foot steel dump body. These models offer crew cab comfort for transporting crews alongside formidable job site capability.
For businesses looking for a balance between upfront cost and modern features, the 2010-2012 models (often referred to as the “4th generation”) remain excellent and robust choices, though you should budget for potential maintenance related to age.
Comparison of Popular Model Year Ranges
| Model Years | Key Engine Spec | Common Configuration | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010-2012 | 6.7L Cummins, 350-800 lb-ft | Regular Cab, 4×2, 10-ft Bed | Strong value, simpler emissions. Higher mileage likely. |
| 2013-2018 | 6.7L Cummins, 370-850 lb-ft | Crew Cab, 4×4, 12-ft Bed | Improved cab & interior. DPF/SCR systems require awareness. |
| 2019-Present | 6.7L Cummins, 370-850 lb-ft | Crew Cab, 4×4, 12-ft Bed | Latest tech & safety. Premium price point. |
Expert Insights on Selection and Investment
I spoke with Michael Torr, a fleet manager with 25 years of experience in heavy equipment logistics and a certified instructor, to get his take. “The Ram 5500 platform is exceptionally reliable,” Torr notes. “But the total cost of ownership for a heavy-duty dump truck isn’t just the purchase price. You must factor in the upfit’s condition. A $5,000 repair on a failing hydraulic system can erase the savings from buying a cheaper truck. Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a diesel mechanic who also understands hydraulic systems.”
This practical advice underscores the importance of viewing the truck and its bed as a single, integrated system. Furthermore, for businesses considering expanding or replacing their fleet with new, cost-effective options, exploring global manufacturers can be strategic. For instance, some operators look to suppliers like Chinese Truck Factory for new chassis cab options that can be similarly upfitted as dump trucks, offering an alternative for specific budget and duty-cycle requirements.
Where to Find Reliable Listings and Final Checklist
Start your search on dedicated commercial truck marketplaces like Commercial Truck Trader and Truck Paper. Don’t neglect local classifieds and regional Facebook Marketplace groups, as many small businesses list their equipment there. Dealerships specializing in commercial vehicles are also excellent sources, often offering inspected and warranted units.
Before You Buy, Do This:
- Inspect Hydraulics: Operate the dump bed through multiple full cycles. Listen for pump strain and watch for cylinder leaks or jerky movement.
- Check Frame & Mounts: Look for cracks, welds, or significant rust around the dump body mounting points and along the frame rails.
- Verify Payload Ratings: Ask for the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the weight of the empty truck with the bed. Simple math will tell you its true available payload.
- Test Drive Under Load: If possible, have the seller load the bed with material (like gravel) to test performance, braking, and suspension behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the typical price range for a used Dodge Ram 5500 dump truck?
A: Prices vary widely based on year, condition, and configuration. Expect to find older, high-mileage models (2010-2014) starting around $35,000 – $45,000. Well-spec’d, lower-mileage models (2016-2020) often range from $55,000 to $85,000 or more.
Q: Can a Ram 5500 dump truck be used for towing as well?
A: Absolutely. One of its strengths is combined payload and towing. Properly equipped, a Ram 5500 can tow over 20,000 lbs. Remember, you must subtract the weight of the dump body, payload, and any passengers from the GVWR first.
Q: What are the most common issues to watch out for?
A: Beyond general diesel engine maintenance, pay close attention to the emissions system (DPF, DEF) on 2013+ models, the health of the transmission (especially if previous use involved extreme loads), and, as emphasized, the entire hydraulic dump system.
Q: Is a Crew Cab model a significant disadvantage for payload?
A: The Crew Cab adds weight, which slightly reduces available payload compared to a Regular Cab on the same chassis. However, the utility of transporting a crew safely and comfortably often far outweighs the minor payload reduction for most businesses.
Finding the right Dodge 5500 dump truck for sale requires diligence, but the payoff is a versatile and powerful asset for your business. By focusing on the platform’s strengths, meticulously evaluating listings, and understanding the total system you’re buying, you can secure a truck that delivers reliability and performance for years to come.
Sources & Further Reading:
– Ram Trucks Commercial Body Builder Guide: Official specifications for upfitters.
– U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) data on vehicle classifications and weights: 2022 Vehicle Registrations and Weight Data.
– Interview with Michael Torr, Fleet Management Consultant (Certification: TESOL for technical instruction, among other industry credentials).
