Forum Discussion

MikeSherman's avatar
MikeSherman
Explorer
Apr 11, 2016

Will This Work?

After years of towing small trailers with a strong TV (weight was never a factor) and owning a couple of Class A MHs we have decided to buy a 5th Wheel and P/U truck, but I'm having trouble figuring out all the weight, tow ratios, etc. for the combination I am looking at. Perhaps someone can give me some advice on the following units I am considering and let me know if I am within a reasonable limit.

THE TRUCK: 2001 Ford F-250 4x4 short bed 7.3 diesel w/tow package & slider hitch.

THE 5th WHEEL: 2004 Forest River Cardinal 33'
UVW - 10,500#
GVWR - 14,110#

Considering we will be full-timing, I assume we will pack in what, 2000#? I'm thinking the trailer is too heavy for the truck, but I may be missing something in the equation. Any input provided will be appreciated.
  • spud1957's avatar
    spud1957
    Explorer
    Apr 11, 2016
    You will exceed your GVWR 8800lbs. Should be OK on the rear axle rating of 6084. You probably have a payload of around 2000lbs (8800-actual truck weight).

    Pin weight of the 5th wheel will be in the 2500lb range.

    The TV's payload rating will be on a placard on the driver's door jam or door, usually it is on the same placard that lists the tire pressures. wrote:


    There will not be a payload placard on the truck. It's too old.
  • boshog's avatar
    boshog
    Explorer
    Apr 11, 2016
    When it comes to fifth wheels, the important number is the payload capacity of the TV. Because the fifth wheel applies a considerable amount of weight on the TV, typically a 3/4 ton truck will max out.

    The TV's payload rating will be on a placard on the driver's door jam or door, usually it is on the same placard that lists the tire pressures. Your RV dealer or a sticker on the fifth wheel would be the source of the RV's pin weight, typically a dry weight, that is, before you add your things like clothes, dishes, etc.

    Googling you trailer, I found the pin weight of 2,110 pounds dry. 14,110 gross weight which lines up with your numbers. Rule of thumb is a fifth wheel's pin weight will be around 18 to 22 percent of the RV's weight loaded.

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