We currently have a Class C but have started thinking about a fifth wheel as a possibility for our next rv.My question is about fifth wheels and trucks needed to pull them.I am looking at two different fifth wheels. One has: a maximum GVWR of 15,000 a base weight of 11,600 a hitch weight of 2,500This fifth wheel measures 29'5" The other has: a maximum GVWR of 17,500 a base weight of either (there are three models) 12,600 and 12,280 and 11,900 a hitch weight of 2,690 and 2,570 and 2,560These fifth wheels measure 32'11"My question is-what size truck would we need to pull these fifth wheels?Thank you for your input.

350/3500 1 ton full size dually for any of thoseAnd forget about them published hitch weights (pin weight) as they are 'dry' numbers and will increase when rig is loaded up ready to go camping.Using 20% of GVWR will get you closer to actual camping ready pin weightTrucks cargo capacity/payload capacity is what gets eaten up fastest.And with those GVWR numbers you are into dually territory

We are looking at similar rigs and we are looking at a one ton F350 diesel dually.

You need a truck rated to tow the 5th wheel trailer weights and with a payload capacity to handle the hitch pin weight you listed and stuff you are going to take with you. LOOK at the truck specs from the manufacturer and pick one. Don't rely on personal opinions, you are legally responsible for having an adequate tow vehicle.

Why does everybody want a XXX Ford ? Makes no sense to me to look at IMHO the weakest of the three. Heck Dodge has upped the any to 30,000 pounds now. Far more than Ford or GM

I agree with needing a 1 ton truck. I do however disagree with needing a dually. My fifth wheel is 39'7" and had a dry delivered weight (weighed at manufacturer) of 12,186 lbs. The GVWR is 15,900. My tow vehicle is a 2010 F350, long bed, crew cab, but not a dually. It pulls the fiver just fine and even with about 150lbs of wood in the bed the truck sits level. Cornering is not an issue and I never feel like I am not in control. Owners of dully trucks say they are required for a coach this size. But they will also say that whatever brand of fifth wheel they have is what you should be buying.

Fifth Wheel Weight and a Truck | Good Sam Community

donn0128
Explorer II
Jul 25, 2013
Why does everybody want a XXX Ford ? Makes no sense to me to look at IMHO the weakest of the three. Heck Dodge has upped the any to 30,000 pounds now. Far more than Ford or GM
wandering1
Explorer
Jul 25, 2013
You need a truck rated to tow the 5th wheel trailer weights and with a payload capacity to handle the hitch pin weight you listed and stuff you are going to take with you. LOOK at the truck specs from the manufacturer and pick one. Don't rely on personal opinions, you are legally responsible for having an adequate tow vehicle.
Spleenstomper
Explorer
Jul 25, 2013
We are looking at similar rigs and we are looking at a one ton F350 diesel dually.
Old-Biscuit
Explorer III
Jul 25, 2013
350/3500 1 ton full size dually for any of those

And forget about them published hitch weights (pin weight) as they are 'dry' numbers and will increase when rig is loaded up ready to go camping.

Using 20% of GVWR will get you closer to actual camping ready pin weight

Trucks cargo capacity/payload capacity is what gets eaten up fastest.
And with those GVWR numbers you are into dually territory

Forum Discussion

Fifth Wheel Weight and a Truck

About Fifth Wheel Group

Related Content

5th Wheel Hitch Weight

Lite weight 5th wheel

gas versus diesel 13.8 max weight fifth wheel

Pic's of your 30'ish foot 5th wheels & please share weights

Appropriate pin weight when buying 5th wheel?