New 5th wheel doesn't tow well
I just bought a brand new Jayco Eagle HT 30.5 MBOK. Unloaded weight is 9635 lbs, max loaded is 11950 lbs. Dry hitch weight is 1795. Optional 16" wheels with Goodyear tires. My TV is a stock 2013 GMC ...
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To IBcarguy, what type of equalizer does the Jayco use? Hopefully it is a rubber type. But, if it has the old rigid equalizer that would be the first issue because the two trailer axles are fighting each other on every bump and that means more conflict with the truck.
Second, I would rig a backup camera to the side of the truck bed, focused on the Anderson and see if the hitch isn't flexing fore and aft too much. With a single attachment point it may flex more than a multiple point hitch, even compared to the Anderson rail mount version. I really don't think this is the problem, just important visual data to help with your decision.
My current setup is very similiar to yours in terms of weights and it has absolutely no chucking. Stock rigid pin box, rail mount Reese hitch, no air bags (but 3500 suspension and heavier truck bed), 16" LT tires on the trailer. But I never travel with a full fresh water tank.
However, years ago, my previous fifth wheel did have serious chucking and had to get fixed. At that time, all equalizers were rigid and I considered all the band aids of aftermarket pin boxes and air hitches. I decided first priority was to improve the trailer ride before using any of the 'isolation' options. Went with the best and had Mor/ryde install their IS suspension. 4 wheel independent suspension and no leaf springs or equalizers. Night and day difference and no other changes were needed.
Good luck getting this resolved.
Second, I would rig a backup camera to the side of the truck bed, focused on the Anderson and see if the hitch isn't flexing fore and aft too much. With a single attachment point it may flex more than a multiple point hitch, even compared to the Anderson rail mount version. I really don't think this is the problem, just important visual data to help with your decision.
My current setup is very similiar to yours in terms of weights and it has absolutely no chucking. Stock rigid pin box, rail mount Reese hitch, no air bags (but 3500 suspension and heavier truck bed), 16" LT tires on the trailer. But I never travel with a full fresh water tank.
However, years ago, my previous fifth wheel did have serious chucking and had to get fixed. At that time, all equalizers were rigid and I considered all the band aids of aftermarket pin boxes and air hitches. I decided first priority was to improve the trailer ride before using any of the 'isolation' options. Went with the best and had Mor/ryde install their IS suspension. 4 wheel independent suspension and no leaf springs or equalizers. Night and day difference and no other changes were needed.
Good luck getting this resolved.
