Forum Discussion

Jhendrick1043's avatar
Sep 29, 2014

Upgrading from Travel Trailer to fifth wheel RV

I have a 2007 Arctic Fox 29V Travel Trailer with a Hensley Arrow hitch that holds the camper in line during towing, but am thinking about upgrading to a slightly larger Arctic Fox fifth wheel sometime in the next few years for more options and greater livability during long stays. I just bought a RAM 3500 long bed crew cab with the 6.7L Cummins high output + Aisin heavy duty transmission, so pulling a larger trailer will not be an issue. Currently, I carry a quiet Honda 3000 watt generator & 50 gallon spare fresh water tank in the pickup bed to power the trailer (if necessary while staying in rest areas enroute the campsite) or remotely refill the 67 gallon 29V fresh water tank while staying in electric only sites, but was wondering how people with a fifth wheel RV refill their fresh water tanks if not connected to a water supply? From what I can tell, the fifth wheel hitch takes up room over the rear axle preventing being able to carry an extra remote tank, and the fifth wheel hitch pin glides into the receiver preventing hauling a tank behind the truck mounted fifth wheel hitch. Right now, the only way that I can see how to do this would be to tow an additional small trailer behind the fifth wheel that could be disconnected and towed by the truck for use in making fresh water runs. But, in doing so, creates another problem of what to do with the trailer when parked at a campsite. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.
  • Ditch the portable genny and water tank and buy a 5er with built in gunny. 5ers generally have larger holding tanks than a TT.
  • You can carry more in a long bed truck with a fifth wheel hitch than you would think. Also, the fresh water tank in your new fifth wheel may be quite a big larger than in your travel trailer. It might not even be an issue. Our 35' fifth wheel has an 85 gallon fresh water tank. More than we ever need for a 4 or 5 day for sure if we're conservative.
  • We have only camped a few times in electric only sites. I use two 6 gallon jugs to refill the fresh water and a blue tote to empty the tanks.

    As far as room and height for everything, I can only give you some info that I have noticed. Our fifth wheel sits about five inches above the bed rails. I try to keep everything at the height of the bed rails. You will have movement and twisting of the trailer and need this clearance due road conditions and getting in and out of different camp sites. I have a long bed and have some room in the front of the bed for taller items.

    You could carry a Gen on a reinforced bumper on the trailer. Then redesign the water tank for the truck.