audiodane wrote:
Hello again,
- Question: Is the mfgr being misleading, or is this RV "designed" to be pulled with a 15% kingpin hitch ratio?
- Question: Why do the combined axle ratings so often *exceed* the tow vehicle's gvw?
- Question: Before I purchase the truck, how do I reconcile these two vastly different outcomes?
..dane
My input, 1 by 1.
1. No, mfgr is not being misleading. They are telling you the specific weight information, for the RV, in an unloaded capacity. They have no insight into how the thousands of us will load it. Depending on the configuration, alot of weight can end up on pin after loaded. How are they to predict how you will load your trailer?
2. Because there are more factors than JUST axle weight rating when determining payload. Simple fact is, the 3/4 ton trucks are artificially capped at 10K for taxes and licensing purposes. There are differences, as pointed out, in suspension (coil vs leaf) and probably a few other parts. But for most part, they use the same parts for both classes of vehicles (except DRWs of course).
3. It is totally up to you, and the value you put on the different weight ratings. That is why this argument ALWAYS, repeat ALWAYS ends up in disagreement. And why you will never get a unanimous opinion (note, I said opinion). Even with my 1 ton, my weights, with truck loaded to go, RV loaded to go, I am 20 lbs OVER my payload, but 300lbs UNDER my axle weight rating. My hitch weighs 300lbs by itself. Im probably running 23-24% pin weight, because I've got a full basement of "stuff" and most of that ends up on the pin. I added a different mattress that weighs probably 50 lbs more than the mattress that came with the unit. That's all pin weight. So, it adds up quickly. Am I worried about it? No...
For 5er's, I am more focused on pin weight and the rear GAWR. Less concerned about payload. I am with the others who say, if you plan to tow a 5er, and planning to buy an SRW truck, just go with 1 ton and be done. I am a two timer (had a 2500, then bought a 3500). Fortunately for me, my 2500 Ram Cummins Diesel I basically broke even selling ($1500 less than I paid after 2 years) and I got a screaming deal on a new 2017 (in late 2018), with only 26 miles.
FWIW.
Mike
