Forum Discussion

Acei's avatar
Acei
Explorer
Jan 12, 2014

Which is easier to drive into a tight site - A vs 5th?

Say both are 40ft, the 5th wheel is being pulled by a long bed dually and the A class is towing a small toad, such as a Honda Fit. Which is easier to drive into a site where you expect tight corners? My common sense says 5th wheel is harder since the overall length is far greater but I see that some claims 5th wheel is easier.

Also, how about backing up into a tight site once you are there?

55 Replies

  • It will be interesting to see which responders have experience with BOTH types and which responders just have opinions. First let me disclose that I have only experience with a 45' class A as a DRIVER. DW and I have our signals pretty well worked out and we can get it parked with relatively little problem.

    However as a camp host, I have a lot of experience getting both class A drivers and 5th wheel drivers into their spaces. My observations are that the 5th wheel folks have the most trouble correctly maneuvering their rigs. The question is: who buys a class A vs. who buys a 5er? It could well be that the demographic that is attracted to 5th wheels just doesn't have enough experience backing trailers. Who knows?

    It will be interesting to see the responses from the people who have driven both.
  • They're both very easy if you know what you're doing. :B
  • Pulling in 5vr due to pivot point at hitch

    Backing in....MH because toad is unhooked and 5vr has to deal with front nose swing of truck

    And then you have to figure in the experience level of driver.

    I am able to park our 5vr where I want it....but I have parked this 5vr every week/bi-monthly for 7 yrs. and have 40(+) yrs. of towing/maneuvering some type of trailer from farm to construction to rvng.
  • The greater the angle of backing the harder it is.. no matter what you're driving. If your example means the A itself is 40', then sans the toad that would be easier.