crash course in 5th wheel hitches?
I've done the whole Truck Camper thing (twice), and the Class A thing. Now I'm getting ready to try a 5th wheel next. I'm just starting to come to terms with how much I DONT know yet about 5th whe...
Forum Discussion
kzspree320 wrote:
There is some truth about the levering, but that is at least partially offset by the weight distributing hitch if set up correctly. The Op is talking about a 10,000 trailer and a half ton.
If you have an average half ton with about 1,600 lbs of payload, it is possible to stay within vehicle manufacturer GVWR and RAWR with 10% hitch weight of 1,000 lbs. With the 2,000 lb pin weight, plus weight of the hitch and all other cargo/people, you will not only be well over the GVWR, but probably way over the RAWR as well. This is why people are recommending the travel trailer with the half ton.
While many 3/4 and 1 ton trucks share a lot of common major components and frames, the same can not be said for half tons. Even if you beef up the suspension and wheels/tires, you still have smaller brakes, lighter frames, etc. I think a 10,000 lb travel trailer is really pushing it, but may work. I personally would never suggest a 10,000 lb fiver for an average half ton pickup. JMHO. Keith
I appreciate the input Keith. Not sure if you realize it, but you made up your own numbers that are different from what I posted.
"2015 F-150 SuperCrew XLT 4X4 3.5eco Max towing: 11,500 lbs Max payload: 2,020 lbs.
Cougar X-lite 26RLS (one example) Shipping Weight: 6885 CCC: 3070 Hitch weight: 1155"
This is neither a "10,000 pound trailer" nor an "average half ton". For me, with nowhere near the CCC limit, it would be more like a 9000 pound trailer. The truck has a max payload of 2020, not 1600. This trailer is closer to 16% pin weight ratio than the 20% you used.
In other words, there is an intersection of half-ton and 5th wheel that is safe and legal.
