2014 Ram Mega Cab - Towing Capacity Help

jtallon wrote:

dicksenn wrote:

I'm realizing that now, but for pin weight is that the Hitch Weight? 5th wheel list 2830 as the hitch weight and my payload is 1890, that's the main issue correct?

Yes, that's the main issue. Pin weight is hitch weight. And sadly, it's a little worse than that. The 1890 payload number is likely a generic number for Mega Cab 2500s, a maximum number. The door sticker of 1503 is more likely the accurate one, specific to your exact truck. Every option you add decreases your available payload. They all weigh something.

That leaves you about 1300lbs short of having enough payload for the Brookstone, in a perfect world.

But there are other factors as well. That 2830lb hitch weight is for an empty camper. By the time you add options and pack it, it will probably be hundreds of pounds heavier than 2830 pounds.

And then there are the other weights to factor in. A fifth wheel hitch will be anywhere from 75-200lbs. That has to be added to your truck's payload, reducing the available payload even further.

As does the weight of any passengers or gear you load in the truck, unless you're driving alone. 150lb spouse? (Don't tell us. ;) )That comes off the available payload. Kids? They do, too. With a family and a hitch and a bit of gear, it would not be hard to bring that 1503lbs down close to 1000lbs remaining. Or even less.

You may be able to fit a decent travel trailer into the payload of your Mega Cab, but any larger fifth wheel will probably push you well over your payload limits. It's a painful lesson that many before you have learned, unfortunately.

Painful dream crushing lesson indeed! You want to trade me your 3500?

I'm still somewhat dumbfounded at the payload capacity, it's a huge truck. I either need to find a bumper pulls with a floor plan similar (really love the rear living, plus bunkhouse) or find a used 3500.

This sucks!