Forum Discussion

evanrem's avatar
evanrem
Explorer II
Aug 19, 2015

Backing 5th wheel vs Travel trailer

I was thinking about upgrading from a 33 TT to 5ver roughly the same size for the better towability and something new. I have read that backing up a 5th wheel is a bit more difficult then a TT. My concern is that we do a lot of state forests which some are already pretty tight when backing up with the TT (front quarter panel has a few scratches to show for it). Will the 5ver make it even more difficult to get in these spots or will it fit anywhere a TT of the same length can go.
Thnaks
  • schlep1967's avatar
    schlep1967
    Nomad
    Aug 19, 2015
    The biggest difference is that the 5th wheel is slower to start turning. You'll have to pull a little further past you site before you start backing.
  • N-Trouble's avatar
    N-Trouble
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2015
    It also helps if you plan out your backing up to where it's on the drivers side. If backing on passenger side you can't see a **** thing behind you and really need a spotter.
  • N-Trouble's avatar
    N-Trouble
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2015
    guidry wrote:
    I wouldn't say it's more difficult, just a little different because of the pivot point. You will have a learning curve but the stability towing more than makes up for it! All you will need is a little practice and you'll be fine.


    +1. I don't find it any harder backing my 5er vs previous bumper pull. The biggest difference I have found is having to contend with the additional height and making contact with trees. Small price to pay for all the other benefits that come with a 5er.
  • azdryheat's avatar
    azdryheat
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2015
    I've backed my 37' FW and 41' TH into some rather tight spaces without incident. I get out of the truck and examine where I want the trailer to go. I plan the path I want my tires to follow. Takes some practice but it's no big deal.
  • path1's avatar
    path1
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2015
    evanrem wrote:
    I was thinking about upgrading from a 33 TT to 5ver roughly the same size for the better towability and something new. I have read that backing up a 5th wheel is a bit more difficult then a TT. My concern is that we do a lot of state forests which some are already pretty tight when backing up with the TT (front quarter panel has a few scratches to show for it). Will the 5ver make it even more difficult to get in these spots or will it fit anywhere a TT of the same length can go.
    Thnaks


    5th wheel easier to tow and more stable and fits into tighter spaces. You'll get to do the overhead pruning for trailers and watch where 5th wheel meets cab of pick up and you'll loose some room in pick up bed. Always trade offs in RV world. IMO
  • guidry's avatar
    guidry
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2015
    I wouldn't say it's more difficult, just a little different because of the pivot point. You will have a learning curve but the stability towing more than makes up for it! All you will need is a little practice and you'll be fine.

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