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looper's avatar
looper
Explorer
Nov 29, 2016

Do I want a 5th wheel?

The wife and I are retired. We have been camping for many years. From tent to popup to travel trailer. Been in our 23.5 Pilgrim for 7 years and it is time for a change. We really like what we see in 5th wheels but just can't make up our mind. I am OCD about reading and learning all I can about something I plan to do. In my research on what it takes to go from TT to 5er it seems like a MUCH bigger step than any we took before. I am trying to learn about the weights and I am a stickler about sticking to the wt limits. I have a low mileage F250 with the old 7.3L diesel and know that limits my choices and we are good with that. Actually would not consider anything over 30'. All that to get to this. What would a veteran 5th wheel owner tell me to consider and research before making my final decision to move up to a 5th wheel or stay with a new TT?

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  • Durb's avatar
    Durb
    Explorer
    Nov 29, 2016
    Budget in an air ride hitch or air suspension pin box up front. I was in your exact position two years ago and found out that a good ride with a shorter 5er is not necessarily a given. I ended up pleased with what I have but I took some unnecessary steps to get there.
  • IdaD's avatar
    IdaD
    Explorer
    Nov 29, 2016
    A 7.3 F250 would handle most 30' fifth wheels just fine. My dad uses one to pull his Nash and I think it has a 6100 lb RAWR - stay under that and your tire ratings and you're good to go. I don't think you'd exceed those numbers with a 30' fifth wheel.

    As far as whether to get one or not, go for it. They tow far nicer than travel trailers and offer a shorter overall package because about 4' of the trailer overlaps the truck. That size fifth wheel would be very comfortable for a couple. An Andersen Ultimate hitch would cut down on the hitch weight and is very easy to add and remove from the truck - the rail mount version only weighs about 35 lbs.
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Nov 29, 2016
    Transition from a TT to a 5th wheel is easy.... just takes a little practice.
  • gbopp's avatar
    gbopp
    Explorer
    Nov 29, 2016
    Mfan wrote:
    I'm 60 years old and have had 2 knees replaced. Steps are not a problem

    I don't think the OP is talking about (stair) steps.
  • Mfan's avatar
    Mfan
    Explorer
    Nov 29, 2016
    You'll love a Fifth Wheel. I'm 60 years old and have had 2 knees replaced. Steps are not a problem
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Nov 29, 2016
    Quit over thinking everything!
    Seriously, fifth wheels tow so much better with so much less hassles. But, sadly you probably wont be very happy with the fiver choices considering your truck. Good news though your truck could be worth far more than ever. Good 7.3 are in high demand. Bad news, your truck has a very low load rating, and weights quite a bit. Remember, a fifth wheel is going to drop around 20% of its loaded ready to go weight directly on the rear axle. In addition you have to add the hitch weight of between 150 and 250 pounds.

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