mtofell1 wrote:
The 5th wheel vs. TT debate is a tough one. I'm right in the middle of it myself as I'm looking at an RV change in the next few months. I've owned both and there are pros/cons to each - at least for my usage.
Here's my list:
TT pros:
Maintain usage of the entire truck bed while on the road (firewood, bikes, tools, etc.)
Easy to hookup - no anvil to lift in/out of the bed
Less TV needed for a given size
Elevated part of the 5th provides nice separation and a generally better floor plan IMO.
TT cons:
Long overall combination (common to find spots in campgrounds that won't take a 30' + TT - RV Parks generally more accepting), also more difficult to back a similar sized unit into a given tight spot.
5th pros:
Better overall towing experience with the weight over the axle vs. hanging on the bumper
Better floor plan flow with upper level
Better storage options on the 5th (but the TT leaves better in the truck so it's kind of a toss-up)
5th cons:
Hook-up is more time consuming
Hitch is a lot to deal with both while on the road while setting up/breaking down
More tow vehicle needed
5ths seem to be generally more $$ compared to a similar TT
It's a REALLY touch call (for me anyway). I still use my truck for work more than fun so it's even tougher. If I were out with any regularity it would be a 5th for sure. It just gets old emptying the tools out of my truck and lugging the hitch in and setting up.... especially since my outings are more likely to be a weekend.
Excellent comparison.
I just traded in my bumper pull on a 5er, which was big enough I had to upgrade the truck. While truck shopping a couple of the guys at work turned me on to getting the 5er package on the dodge which also has a gooseneck ball capability. that makes it extremely easy to drop in the gooseneck ball and bolt down and Andersen ultimate hitch. (It uses a gooseneck ball, but isn't a gooseneck and thus no risk of damaging 5er frame from extra stress of gooseneck adapter.) I have the steel one, with total weight of maybe 85 pounds, and installation takes well less than 10 minutes. "Drop in ball set hitch over ball, tighten 3 bolts, drop in safety chain mounts" The aluminum version is only 35 pounds or so. It's a really sweet setup if you want to only have the hitch in the truck on weekends, use the bed of the truck while camped etc.
