I'm so new I don't even have an RV

I'd start with where you do want to go and camp? Then find an RV that fits. Doesn't always need to be the max size RV and TV. Consider renting RVs too.

My opinion would be to decide on the trailer/5th wheel first, then you can figure out the options necessary for a truck to pull it with.

Buying the truck first is like putting the cart before the horse. You may fall in love with a floor plan that isn't a 40' behemoth. You may be smitten with a 35' 5th wheel that can easily be pulled with a 3/4 ton truck.

Keep lurking around here. You will pick up some good info. Welcome to the forum and let us know when you pull the pin and buy a rig.

fj12ryder wrote:
My opinion would be to decide on the trailer/5th wheel first, then you can figure out the options necessary for a truck to pull it with.

Buying the truck first is like putting the cart before the horse. You may fall in love with a floor plan that isn't a 40' behemoth. You may be smitten with a 35' 5th wheel that can easily be pulled with a 3/4 ton truck.

What FJ said! Figure out the FW =first=, then see if you have the funds for the truck to pull it. :B Also, for a first-timer, I'd =seriously= consider buying a used RV similar to what you like. Do this, knowing that you're only going to keep it for the short-term, then make a list of "never-agains", "not needed", "be nice to haves" and "must haves". Even then, finding a used example of the exact model you want might be easier than you think.

Lyle

If you’re on Facebook, check out the "RV Pricing and Values" page. Be sure and read the Pinned Post first.

5th 1st. That way you'll know for sure what truck you need. Even DRW's have different tow ratings.

Welcome,
Are you a teacher or bean counter by some chance? Spread sheet? Your overthinking things. Do you have a truck yet? Yes, then go weigh it, and subtract that from your trucks GVWR.
If no. Find a trailer you really think you cant live without. Look at the tag near the left from and get the GVWR from it. 20% of that is the max pin weight. Now, match a truck that can safely handle that.
Look at it another was,
1500 series, not suitable for fivers.
2500 series, suitsble for fivers up to around 11,000 GVWR.
3500SRW series suitavle for fivers up to around 13,500 GVWR
3500 duallies suitable for most of the rest.
This is based on new truck specs.
BYT. This is a first ever RV PLEASE DO YOUR SELF A FAVOR. DO NOT buy a new RV. Buy used and let someone else eat the huge depreciation.

I don't think he's overthinking things at all. I'm impressed the OP isn't trying to do this with an F150 like so many and is thinking about every number and detail.
OP, your on the right track. Start with the RV you want and don't undersize the truck. You will not be sorry if you end up with a truck that has some extra capacity.
I do agree that you should not buy your first RV brand new. What ever you get, you will learn from it what things you really want and need. Then you'll buy something else in a year or two and take a beating on the trade in.

If you get a dually, 3500 HD or F350, crew cab, long bed, you'll be able to tow just about anything. If you get a lesser truck, then you have to count the beans. If you want real towing power that's unbelievable, make that dually a diesel! Now you REALLY can tow anything in your dreams!

Well, thanks for the fb (feed back NOT Facebook). I don't do FB. Seems a pretty clear message to buy used 5th wheel first. No, I don't have the truck yet either. I have done a fair amount of "research" and I've seen a lot of reviews from folks who have had nothing but problems with everything falling apart, breaking, etc. I know the reviews are probably biased toward people with bad experience and not a good statistical survey of the broader population...but! My concern with "near new" models is that you wind up with the lemons other folks want to be rid of. I know I'll have to do a thorough walk through but I'm not sure I even know what I should be paying attention to. But, buying used has to be the right thing or you all would not have say so. So...buy used from a dealer or private seller? I've seen a couple of $69 books reviewing manufacturer quality, etc. Are any of these worth the price? Warning, I have more questions!!!