Fifth-wheel Questions.
Our rving needs have changed. It looks like we will be living 2-3 months out of the yr in a camper. We are looking at fifth-wheels. We wanted to stay around 35 ft. Weight wise was a round 10K pou...
Forum Discussion
MNRon wrote:t
For what it’s worth, I’ve pulled a 14k 34’ 5er for the last 3 years (~20k miles) with a 1T SRW. I would make sure it’s a late model diesel with an exhaust brake, but then I’d be comfortable with this type of setup. If I were looking above ~16k lbs I would want a DRW I believe.
I really hesitated to go here ( hate being assulted by the weight police)...but if you want to stay with the SRW and safely/responsibly tow a pretty big/heavy rig. With some easy ( not cheap), modifications a SRW can upgraded. A bigger spring pack or air bags. The bags are nice in that when “not” towing can be “let-down” for a softer ride. Definitely want an engine brake...if you don’t already have one. With the high pin weight you will have... a tire/rim upgrade is in order ( this ain’t cheap). Our 5 er is heavy (crowding 20K)...we went with 19.5” steel rims (rated at 5000# each) from Richson Wheels and Hankook DH07 tires ( rated at 4900# each at max air pressure). Very stable and more than adequate for our pin-weight. The DH07’s offer good traction in off-road conditions and snow/ice situations.
This opinion was based upon the assumption that: the GM 2500 HD axle is similar to that of the late model Dodge HD series 2500’s and 3500’s axle (which are the same) ratings. Which will allow you to upgrade your tires/rims, springs to accommodate a higher load (pin weight).
While the tow vehicle is important...some responsibility rests on the RV as well. The truck needs help stopping a heavy rig....disc brakes are a plus though not mandatory. We once had a 5er with 7K axles outfitted with 8K brakes. It truly helped bring things to a stop. A top of the line brake controller helps making the system be the best it can be! A quality suspension (MORyde comes to mind) on the trailer also helps “stabilize” the entire rig ( many rv’s are under sprung, underrated in tires/rims, and do not have shock absorbers). A shock absorbing pin box or hitch can also make towing a little more pleasant.
Good Luck with whatever route (pun intended) you decide!
