fj12ryder wrote:
Easy answer: Weigh your truck fully loaded like you would be going down the road. Subtract that weight from your GVWR, the resulting amount is your payload. That will be the pin weight you'll be considering as your guide.
Wrong! The resulting amount will be the total payload the truck is capable of handling...which includes not only the pin weight of the 5ver but EVERYTHING else you put in or on the truck including driver, passengers, dog, equipment, hitch, or anything else.
Posted By: hbillsmith on 09/24/14 09:11pm
Sorry to make things worse but starting with your sticker payload, subtract first your family and pet load (the 800#), then subtract the weight of the fifth wheel hitch you choose, next subtract any cargo that you may throw in the truck bed. Lastly, your trailers hitch weight will increase by the weight of the battery (55#) and the propane tanks (30# x 2). So I think you are looking at (2450 - 800 - 55 - 60) 1535 for an advertised new trailers hitch weight. Reduce that a little more if the design has a front storage bin and you have some stuff you plan on hauling in there. A 3500 SRW long bed will solve your problem, otherwise look at ultra light bunk houses like Open Range Light.
hbillsmith: Your assuming the OP wants a TT. They explicitly said they wanted a 5ver.
Seabeedaddy... you are absolutely correct in your math. 450 lbs left over is not near enough as you will be putting a lot more in the truck besides what you mentioned. When considering RAWR, FAWR, GVWR, GCVWR, Payload rating and tow capacity....you will be governed by the first one that you max out....which I'm sure you'll find out will be the payload rating. None of them will "trump" any of the others.
Yes, you will see many 3/4 ton pickups pulling large 5ers that are obviously way to big...but that doesn't make it right nor that you should do it also. Safety should be your first concern.
If you really want that large 5ver, you're best bet would be a 3500/350 diesel.
Good luck
Ron
