Used 5th wheel &Truck purchase advice needed.
I am looking for advice. Would like to travel off and on 2 to 3-1/2 months per year; thinking of July through mid-October, when I retire in 2018 and do more camping now. Been researching and look...
Forum Discussion
A 27-32' fifth wheel would be fine behind any newer 250/350, imo. Get into some of the older trucks and I'd defer to others, but the new ones are basically six of one vs half dozen of the other. I mention this because if you're buying used a big factor is going to be what sort of deals you can find, and it would be foolish to pass on a good deal for no good reason. Since you'll be towing out west I do think you would be wise to opt for a diesel.
As far as the trailer goes, you can save a lot with used units but you need to be careful. If your budget is $45k you an get a very nice fifth wheel if you spend some time looking. Since it's just you and your wife it's going to be an easier search because the more limited units on the used market seem to be the bunk models, which you don't need. Used trailers are a lot cheaper back east for some reason. Probably just has to do with more inventory.
I wouldn't necessarily write off a toy hauler if you're looking to carry around dirt bikes. It can be a little challenging finding shorter units that are fifth wheels but there are some out there. A TH would make hauling those bikes a much easier proposition, and for two you'd have plenty of space in the living quarters in most of them. They also offer some other advantages you might appreciate while camping - generally a much larger fresh water tank, an on board generator and a fueling station for the bikes. On the flip side, they tend to cost more. Anyway, I'd at least spend some time investigating them before blowing them off.
The other alternative on the bikes is to go with a bumper pull and carry the bikes in the truck. It's an option but the downside is they don't tow as well.
As far as the trailer goes, you can save a lot with used units but you need to be careful. If your budget is $45k you an get a very nice fifth wheel if you spend some time looking. Since it's just you and your wife it's going to be an easier search because the more limited units on the used market seem to be the bunk models, which you don't need. Used trailers are a lot cheaper back east for some reason. Probably just has to do with more inventory.
I wouldn't necessarily write off a toy hauler if you're looking to carry around dirt bikes. It can be a little challenging finding shorter units that are fifth wheels but there are some out there. A TH would make hauling those bikes a much easier proposition, and for two you'd have plenty of space in the living quarters in most of them. They also offer some other advantages you might appreciate while camping - generally a much larger fresh water tank, an on board generator and a fueling station for the bikes. On the flip side, they tend to cost more. Anyway, I'd at least spend some time investigating them before blowing them off.
The other alternative on the bikes is to go with a bumper pull and carry the bikes in the truck. It's an option but the downside is they don't tow as well.
