Tow behind VS Fifth wheelers
Hello fellow RVers: I am in the process of transitioning from a Class A motor home to either a tow behind trailer or a fifth wheeler. Reason is both my wife and I are retired and empty-nesters, so we ...
Forum Discussion
Jose de Sucre wrote:
My RAM is a 2008 Dakota 1500 with a Hemi. It can tow almost anything....
...and the check is in the mail. Yes it will tow, but carrying capacity is the limiting factor on all but the biggest trucks.
The idea is to stay below the GVWR, meaning that occupants, cargo in the bed, and the 15% of the trailer weight that is on the tongue shouldn't exceed the GVWR.
For most 1500 trucks, that leaves you with a fully loaded trailer weight of 6000-7000 lbs, meaning you are shopping "dry" weights in the 4000-5000 lb range. Don't rely on my numbers here, you need to do the math for your own truck.
Also remember the hemi is probably the strongest part of the equation, but a chain is only as string as its weakest link. You may have the power to pull a big TT, but will the transmission and rear axle stand up to the stress is another question. Again these are not facts about your truck but points to consider as you do your research.
