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Ab7r's avatar
Ab7r
Explorer
Aug 05, 2016

Towing experts....

Need a nudge one way or another.

I have a 2014 3500 dodge dually....27K GVCW and 18,500 towing limit. With extra passengers and stuff in the truck the towing limit will be closer to 18,200.

RV I am likely to get is a Grand Design Solitude that says GVW of 16K and 2650 tongue weight.

So far so good.

My truck presently has a BW turnover ball system for my horse trailer. We are likely to go on the road full time with this setup within a couple years.

I was set to pull the trigger on a used trailer saver BD3 rated at 18K. But then I have to deal with installation of the rails around the turnover ball. I am sure there are specific kits for this.

Now I am leaning toward the BW companion rated at 20K... Much easier to install since the turnover ball is already in place. I know these are said to ride well but I do like the concept of the air cushion as a damper between the TV and RV.

So I am sort of leaning toward the companion hitch and one of those Lippert air flex pin box replacements. Anyone have any experience with them? Seems like that combined with the companion hitch should be a good working solution.

Our plan is likely to drive a day or two....and mostly find places to stay 10-20 days at a time.

Thanks and looking forward to as much input as possible.

Greg
Whidbey Island WA
  • A set of rails with custom brackets only runs $200 on etrailer, and I installed mine myself in an afternoon. I use a rail mount Andersen and I love the gooseneck style smoothness and performance over rough terrain without the downsides of a gooseneck adapter on a fifth wheel. I do prefer a rail setup (or pucks) to the turnover ball systems but you'd probably be fine with one - the reviews I've read on them are overwhelmingly positive.

    I haven't used an air style hitch so I can't really comment on how they compare, but if that's the way you want to go I wouldn't let the rail installation dissuade you - it's really an easy job.
  • Air ride pin boxes are worth every penny of their cost. Pulled our current fiver for about a year before switching. Would not ever tow without one again.

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