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bosworthj's avatar
bosworthj
Explorer
Dec 22, 2016

Fifth Wheel vs Travel Trailer

This is probably a loaded question, but here goes. Is there a fifth wheel that is safely tow-able by a 1/2 ton truck? I have a 2007 Sierra 1500 with the tow package and I am pretty sure my tow capacity is 7700#. My wife and I have an 18' TT, but would like something closer to 24'. We would like more space for when it rains and a bed we can both sleep in :) instead of everyone (including the dog) having a separate bed right now. We are also confused by what appears to be the lack of windows in TT's these days. The wife really digs how a lot of 5th wheels have the big window in the back (which is why we are considering them). I know most people I see pulling 5th wheels have 2500's or 250's or better. I also know I probably won't get a straight answer from a dealer. So here I am.

Thanks in advance!

25 Replies

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  • BillB800si's avatar
    BillB800si
    Explorer
    Dec 22, 2016
    There's plenty of 5th wheelers out there that can safely be pulled with a 1/2 ton truck. Many even have slides. The newer 5ers are made with more aluminum so they are much lighter than the older units. Another big benefit of 5ers is all that extra storage area.Plus they are much more stable going down the highway

    For starters take a look here:
    Forest River
    Highland Ridge
    Northwood
    Keystone

    Good luck
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Dec 22, 2016
    colliehauler wrote:
    They make TT's with large windows in back as well.


    that is one reason I bought my Ascend instead of the Rpod. when wife and I were looking at both of them, the Ascend had windows on sides and rear around dinette. the rpod had no rear window.
    bumpy
  • bosworthj's avatar
    bosworthj
    Explorer
    Dec 22, 2016
    Thanks, that is what I figured. I'd like to upgrade to a 2500 someday, but my current truck only has 130k on it, so I think I still have a lot of life in it (fingers crossed). Like I said the main draw of the 5th wheel was the big window in the back. :) probably silly I know...
  • colliehauler's avatar
    colliehauler
    Explorer III
    Dec 22, 2016
    Very few 5th wheels are actually half ton towable. You would not gain much size wise and still be half ton towable unless you plan on upgrading your truck. The pin weight tends to be the limiting factor.

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