The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 sits in the heavy-duty pickup segment where towing, payload, and long-distance work all shape tire choice more than styling alone. Buyers often approach this truck with a specific trim or dual-rear-wheel setup already in mind, and that matters because tire fitment is not uniform across the range. This model uses radial tire sizes including 275/70R18, 285/60R20, and 235/80R17 depending on configuration. That makes the real decision less about vintage-style construction and more about matching the exact wheel diameter, sub-model, and intended use. A careful check of trim, DRW status, and current wheel setup should come before comparing available tire options.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500
Three primary tire sizes apply to the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500, and they vary by sub-model and wheel diameter. The first step is confirming the exact trim and whether the truck is a dual-rear-wheel configuration, then verifying whether it is running 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch wheels. Once that is clear, the choice shifts to the correct radial size and the product characteristics available within that fitment.
Fit(s): Big Horn, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, SLT, and Tradesman
Construction: Radial|Rim: 18 in
275/70R18 is a metric radial size in which 275 refers to nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 18 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500, this size is used on certain single-rear-wheel configurations with 18-inch wheels. Available options in this size include BFGoodrich in the All Terrain TA KO2 series with a raised white letter sidewall. This size is worth considering when the truck is equipped with the correct 18-inch wheel setup and the goal is to stay with the proper factory-style wheel diameter for that configuration.
Fit(s): Big Horn, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, Limited, and SLT
Construction: Radial|Rim: 20 in
285/60R20 is a metric radial size that uses a 285-millimeter nominal section width, a 60-series aspect ratio, and a 20-inch rim diameter. On the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500, this size appears on certain upper-trim single-rear-wheel configurations and should be matched to an actual 20-inch wheel before any tire is selected. Its lower profile compared with the 18-inch fitment also makes wheel confirmation especially important. Buyers looking at this size should focus first on trim-specific fitment and current wheel setup rather than treating it as interchangeable with the truck's other radial options.
235/80R17 is a metric radial size with a 235-millimeter nominal section width, an 80-series profile, and a 17-inch rim diameter. On the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500, this size is tied to the dual-rear-wheel configurations, making it a fitment that depends heavily on identifying the truck correctly. BFGoodrich offers this size in the All Terrain TA KO2 series with an RBL sidewall, giving the buyer a specific product style within the proper size. This is the size to evaluate when the truck is a DRW model and still uses the appropriate 17-inch wheel arrangement.
Sub-model fitment on the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 varies by trim, wheel diameter, and whether the truck is a dual-rear-wheel configuration. Checking the exact sub-model matters because some trims can use either 18-inch or 20-inch tires, while DRW versions move to a different 17-inch fitment.
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2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn can use either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20, so wheel diameter must be confirmed before selecting a tire. Tire choice here starts with identifying whether the truck is on its 18-inch or 20-inch setup, then comparing available radial options within that size.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x2 (DRW) uses the 235/80R17 radial size. That makes this configuration more straightforward, but it is still important to verify the dual-rear-wheel setup and correct 17-inch wheel arrangement before choosing among available tires.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x4 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. Selection is centered on staying with the proper DRW fitment and confirming that the truck still has the expected 17-inch wheel setup before comparing product details.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Laramie can be equipped with either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20. For this trim, the key step is confirming which wheel diameter is on the truck now, since the correct tire choice follows that wheel and not the trim name alone.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Laramie 4x2 (DRW) uses the 235/80R17 radial fitment. Buyers should match that size to the truck's dual-rear-wheel configuration and verify the present wheel setup before moving on to tread and sidewall preferences.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Laramie 4x4 (DRW) is fitted with 235/80R17 radial tires. Tire selection is mainly about keeping the proper DRW size and confirming that wheel diameter and current truck setup still align with that specification.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Laramie Longhorn can use either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20 depending on wheel package. The practical step is to confirm whether the truck wears 18-inch or 20-inch wheels before comparing tire options, since both sizes are tied to this trim.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Laramie Longhorn 4x2 (DRW) uses the 235/80R17 radial size. That fitment keeps the decision focused on the proper DRW wheel setup and the product characteristics available in the correct 17-inch size.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Laramie Longhorn 4x4 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. Choosing a tire for this truck means staying with the proper DRW fitment and confirming that the wheel and rear-wheel arrangement have not been changed.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Limited uses 285/60R20, making its fitment more specific than trims that can take more than one size. Tire selection starts with confirming the truck still has its 20-inch wheels, then comparing available radial options in that exact size.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Limited 4x2 (DRW) uses the 235/80R17 radial size. The main fitment priority is confirming the dual-rear-wheel configuration and proper 17-inch wheel setup before choosing a tire for road or work use.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Limited 4x4 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. This keeps tire selection centered on the correct DRW fitment, with wheel diameter and current wheel hardware worth checking before purchase.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 SLT can use either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20. Choosing correctly depends on verifying whether the truck has 18-inch or 20-inch wheels, since both tire sizes appear within this trim family.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 SLT 4x2 (DRW) uses the 235/80R17 radial fitment. That makes the size decision straightforward, but the truck's dual-rear-wheel setup and actual 17-inch wheels should still be confirmed before selection.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 SLT 4x4 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. Buyers should treat this as a DRW-specific fitment and verify that the truck's current wheel setup still matches the intended 17-inch tire size.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Tradesman uses 275/70R18. That simplifies tire selection compared with trims that have more than one possible size, though it is still smart to confirm the truck retains its 18-inch wheels before choosing a replacement.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Tradesman 4x2 (DRW) uses the 235/80R17 radial size. Tire selection should stay focused on the proper DRW fitment and on confirming the 17-inch wheel setup currently on the truck.
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Tradesman 4x4 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. The important next step is confirming the truck's dual-rear-wheel configuration and wheel diameter so the chosen tire matches the actual setup.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 Tires for Sale
Available tire choices for the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 currently center on BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 products in 275/70R18 and 235/80R17. The visible differences in the product grid include sidewall treatment, rim-width compatibility, load specification, and overall tire weight within the correct radial size.
Owners shopping tires for a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 usually need to sort out trim-level size differences, wheel diameter, DRW fitment, and the available radial product choices. These FAQs focus on the practical questions that come up before replacing a working heavy-duty truck tire.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 uses three primary tire sizes: 275/70R18, 285/60R20, and 235/80R17. The correct one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel setup. Single-rear-wheel trims may use 18-inch or 20-inch tires, while dual-rear-wheel configurations use 235/80R17.
The most important step is matching the tire to the truck's actual wheel diameter and configuration rather than relying on the model name alone. A quick check of the trim, DRW status, and the size already mounted on the truck helps prevent choosing a tire that belongs to a different 3500 setup.
What size rim does a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 use?
A 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 can use 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rims depending on configuration. The 235/80R17 fitment uses a 17-inch rim, 275/70R18 uses an 18-inch rim, and 285/60R20 uses a 20-inch rim.
Rim diameter is the first fitment point to verify because none of these tire sizes cross over to a different wheel diameter. Wheel width also matters when comparing actual tire options, especially on a heavy-duty truck where load and intended use make proper wheel-and-tire matching more important than appearance alone.
Why does the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 have more than one tire size?
The 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 has more than one tire size because the lineup includes different trims, wheel packages, and dual-rear-wheel versions. Some single-rear-wheel trims can be equipped with either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20, while DRW models use 235/80R17.
That means tire selection starts with identifying the truck exactly as it sits today. Trim level helps, but the safer path is confirming whether the truck is DRW or single rear wheel and then checking the actual wheel diameter before comparing tread pattern, sidewall style, or load-related specifications.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
Start with the correct size for the truck's exact configuration: 275/70R18, 285/60R20, or 235/80R17. From there, compare construction, rim-width compatibility, load specification, sidewall style, and the kind of use the truck sees, whether that is towing, work duty, or general road driving.
A heavy-duty pickup puts more emphasis on fitment discipline than many lighter vehicles. The right approach is to match the tire to the current wheel diameter and truck setup first, then look at details such as tire series, weight, and sidewall presentation to find the option that best suits how the 3500 is used.
What sidewall styles are available for 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 tires?
The available product selection for the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 includes RWL and RBL sidewall styles, depending on tire size. The 275/70R18 BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 uses a raised white letter sidewall, while the 235/80R17 version uses an RBL sidewall.
Sidewall style does not change the basic fitment requirement, but it does affect how the truck looks once the tire is mounted. After confirming the correct size and wheel diameter, sidewall treatment becomes part of the final choice, especially for owners who want either a more aggressive visual presentation or a more subdued appearance.
What brands offer tires for the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
The available products shown for the 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 are from BFGoodrich. The current visible options are in the All Terrain TA KO2 series for 275/70R18 and 235/80R17, both in radial construction.
Brand is only one part of the decision on a truck like this. Once the correct size is confirmed, compare the tire's sidewall style, rim-width range, weight, and load specification so the chosen product matches the wheel and the type of service expected from a 3500.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
A period-style choice for a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 starts with keeping the truck in its proper original-type size category for the exact configuration, whether that is 235/80R17, 275/70R18, or 285/60R20. Since this is a modern heavy-duty truck, the right visual starting point is still a correct radial fitment rather than a vintage-style construction change.
Appearance choices come after the fitment is settled. Sidewall treatment and tire series can influence the final look, but they should follow the truck's real wheel diameter and DRW or single-rear-wheel setup. Owners pursuing a highly accurate presentation should also compare against window sticker, build documentation, or marque-specific references.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
On a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500, tire construction is straightforward because the primary fitments are radial. That means the appearance difference comes less from bias-ply versus radial and more from tire series, sidewall treatment, and the overall proportions created by the truck's correct 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch fitment.
Keeping the proper size family matters visually because the truck's stance can look noticeably different when the wheel diameter or tire profile changes. For a restoration-minded owner, the most faithful result usually comes from matching the exact configuration first, then choosing the sidewall and tread presentation that best suits the truck's intended finished look.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered offset, suspension lifts, lowering, or body modifications can all change how a 275/70R18, 285/60R20, or 235/80R17 tire sits on the truck.
A truck that has been changed from stock should be checked for wheel diameter, wheel width, steering clearance, and space around the fenders and suspension before replacing tires. That is especially important on DRW models, where the rear-wheel arrangement adds another layer of clearance and hardware compatibility to verify.
What should I inspect before driving a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 on new tires?
Before driving a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500 on new tires, inspect wheel condition, valve stems, lug hardware, and tire pressure, then look over the truck for any obvious clearance concerns. It is also smart to confirm the tires match the intended wheel diameter and configuration before the truck goes back into regular service.
A short initial drive followed by a recheck can catch issues early. Pay attention to any rubbing, vibration, unusual steering feel, or signs of uneven seating on the wheel. Heavy-duty trucks benefit from a careful once-over because towing, hauling, and rough-service use place greater demands on both the tires and the supporting hardware.
What should I check before a longer drive in a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500?
Before a longer drive in a 2018 RAM Trucks 3500, check tire pressure, tread condition, visible sidewall damage, and any signs of air loss. The truck should also be on the correct size for its configuration, with wheel and tire condition inspected closely if it will be used for towing or carrying heavier loads.
Longer trips are a good time to look for age-related cracking, cuts, bulges, or irregular wear that may not stand out during short local use. On a truck that sees intermittent service, it also helps to inspect spare-tire condition and confirm the wheels and tires have not developed issues while parked between drives.
