Two fifth wheel towing scenarios...

janegowest wrote:
I wonder how the numbers and practicalities would work out in these two scenarios, pros and cons, MPG, etc....loaded weight of fifth wheel close to the same length + type of truck. I know that the MPG varies from engine to engine, but just average ball-park type figures....if that is possible.

1. 13K + 2009 F350
2. 18K + 2009 F450

Thanks for your input!

In reading about various tow vehicles, from 1/2 tons to HD's, mpg always seems to average out about 9-11 mph for diesels. I know that Mountain Master would build you a Freightliner Sport Chassis with a 450 hp Cat and 10-speed tranny that was advertised 11-12 mph at its rated 30k max payload. My '02 D'max pulls my 11.3k GVW low profile FW right around 10-11 mph at 65 mph, a bit better if I slow to 60. I've seen 14-15 mph with a tailwind and I've seen 7-8 with a headwind. As others have said, it will all depend on the specific FW, truck and your style of driving. 2 biggest factors are how fast you like to drive and the shape of your FW. I can almost guarantee you a 35' square front/back FW toyhauler will give you worse mileage than a comparable 35' standard FW with rounded front and rear caps, simply due to less turbulence.

Lyle