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S4cruiser's avatar
S4cruiser
Explorer
Jul 19, 2020

Reality check - 2006 Chevy 2500

First post and diving in head first...

We are in the very early discussions with DW’s parents on a 5er. A key point is whether we use my current truck as the TV or need to upgrade (equals more money). I’ve had my 2500 for almost 12 years and it’s been rock solid. It’s the extd cab short bed 4x4 with D/A and only 120k miles.

I’ve done a considerable amount of towing with a 24’ car trailer and it handles that load just fine.

I know one of my limiting factors is the GVWR of 9200lbs and as a result are considering 5er’s on the lighter side. One model we like based on the floor plan of two separate bedrooms spaces is the Cougar 32bhs - https://www.keystonerv.com/fifth-wheels/cougar-half-ton/floorplans/32bhs-fifth-wheel/ This is something we would plan to leave at a specific campsite/location for a while vs towing it around every weekend.

I know there is no substitute for hooking it up and hitting the scales...but for those with more experience then me (everyone here)...is something like the above model / weight going to be doable and an enjoyable tow or should I be looking to nut-up and price in upgrading to a DRW truck?
  • I would not be too concerned with GVWR. With a FW, almost all weight is on the rear axle/rear tires. I'm thinking you have a RAWR of at least 6000, so how much wt is on the rear axle right now? Lets guess 2800 plus hitch 200 still leaves 3000 for pin wt, which would handle loaded pin wt of say 2400 using the FW you are considering.

    You can take your truck only, loaded with people, fuel, some gear, add 200 for hitch, and see exactly what the rear axle weighs.

    Jerry
  • Can your truck handle 2000+ pounds of pin weight plus who and what you carry in the truck?
  • Apparently 2006 was a good model year for the Silverado. 220,000 miles on my 3500 dually, most of them pulling a heavy 5er, & we are still going strong. It gets what it likes, fresh oil every 3000 miles & almost an open checkbook when it comes to preventative maintenance.