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jamesu's avatar
jamesu
Explorer
Dec 27, 2014

TT vs. 5th wheel: ease of towing

I've been towing TT's for years. Tired of doing all the towing. I want my wife to help out on long hauls but she is not at all comfortable getting behind the wheel (see my rig in my "signature" below). Would a 5th wheel be easier for her to tow? I'm brainstorming ways to getting to see the USA on the road so I don't have to drive 100% of the time. It's wearing me out. I'm know that going to a fifth wheel will involve buying a new truck. All of this is going to cost $$$ so I'm doing my due diligence research at this time. Thanks for any reliable information.

59 Replies

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  • Dick_B's avatar
    Dick_B
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    My Wife drives about 1/3 of the time which helps greatly.
    X2 on the lessons. Also X2 on the take it easy.
  • SteveAE's avatar
    SteveAE
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    I wonder if there isn't a driving course (taught by someone besides you or other family members) that your wife could take that would help her become more comfortable driving....whatever. Might cost a few hundred $$$, but that would be cheap compared to a new rig....or an accident because you got tired.

    Steve
  • korbe's avatar
    korbe
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    I sure wouldn't spend any money on new stuff unless I was sure the wife would be more comfortable. I think the better alternative is to adjust your travel situation so you don't get burned out.
  • path1's avatar
    path1
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    You've posted in 5th wheel section. Responses are going to be favored to them.

    IMO...I've had both and feel 5th wheels tow better or "ease of towing". Weight over axle makes better for stability. But 5th wheels do the tree trimming for TT's and of course the obvious of losing room in bed of pick up. And that doesn't mean your wife will feel any better towing 5th wheel versus a TT. However it sure make a good case for buying new toys.
  • Jack_Diane_Free's avatar
    Jack_Diane_Free
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    I have had both and if set up properly one is as stable as the other. Why not just tow less, fewer miles per day, fewer hours per day. If you are retired what is the rush? Take it easy on yourself.
  • Cummins12V98's avatar
    Cummins12V98
    Explorer III
    Dec 27, 2014
    There is a reason they call it "stepping up to" or "upgrading to" a 5er!

    Once behind the wheel you will see why.
  • Us_out_West's avatar
    Us_out_West
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    Take your time driving maybe a couple hours a day and stay longer in a place you want to visit long term...min. 1 week and maybe longer if you really like the area.

    Works for us.

    Oh...yes a 5ver will tow better especially when you get over 30'+ range.

    Good luck and find your way to enjoy your travels.
  • amandasgramma's avatar
    amandasgramma
    Explorer
    Dec 27, 2014
    DH says 5er is MUCH easier to tow....And to back up and to wiggle into a space. But you're going to get as many that say TT is easier as you will 5ers. :)

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