Forum Discussion

tealboy's avatar
tealboy
Explorer
Oct 08, 2017

Heaviest 5er without a dually?

What do u think is appx the heaviest trailer I can buy but still be able to safely travel across continental US using a single axle f250 or 2500 series diesel, vintage 2014-2016 model tow vehicle. Prob prefer short bed if possible but not sure if that is ok.

Here's why I ask, I am still working full time in downtown msa in an office building w a parking garage. I need the tow vehicle to be my daily driver when not traveling and a dually will not fit in the parking garage.

Also note, I am new to this, have towed many boats and trailers but have never owned or rv'd. Very comfortable towing but pointing this out as FYI.

Looked at a used 5er w a gvw of 14,000 lbs today. Have not looked st trucks so realize that needs to happen to drill down on tow capacity but for a rough start, wanted your expert assistance. Thank you
  • azdryheat's avatar
    azdryheat
    Explorer
    Oct 08, 2017
    I'd get a late model F350/3500 SRW. Properly equipped, a single rear wheel F350/3500 truck can handle a 5th wheel weighing in the neighborhood of 17,000 pounds.
  • Greene728's avatar
    Greene728
    Explorer
    Oct 08, 2017
    It's not what you can tow, it's what you can carry as in payload. Especially with 5th wheels as pin weight will add up quicker than fast as storage is 75 percent of the time forward of the axle. Personally with a 250/2500 series it's usually around 12k and under with say 10k being optimal IMO. With a 350/3500 series in SRW add 2-3k to that with 12-13k being optimal. More than 15k and your in dually territory. Now some will dispute these numbers and tell you different and that's ok. As I said, it's my opinion and optimal numbers with my experience. I have a Grand Design 303RLS that is around 11k loaded and have a 3500. I'm a very, very firm believer in overkill when it comes to myself and my family's safety. And others on the road deserve for me to be safe also. YMMV.

About Fifth Wheel Group

19,006 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 29, 2025