Forum Discussion

Sgeorge's avatar
Sgeorge
Explorer
Sep 03, 2017

Moving from a Bumper Pull to a 5'er

So I am looking for some advice, hopefully from people who have done the same thing. Here are the truck details, 2016 Ford F250, 4X4, CC, 6.2, 4.30. I am currently towing a trailer with a max weight of 6,000lbs; I am looking at moving up to a fifth wheel that will max out at 9,000lbs. I am happy with how the truck pulls the current trailer, but concerned that I might not like the heavier fifth wheel. I am not worried about pin weight and issues like that; the truck can more than handle the weights. The question I have is how much will I feel the increased weight in actual pulling. Will the truck slow down significantly? Will the 3,000lbs increase cause a large difference in pulling hills? Also what will moving from a bumper pull to a fifth wheel effect pulling in head winds, concerned about wind resistance. Thanks for any help you might give.
Tow Vehicles

27 Replies

Show More
  • ib516's avatar
    ib516
    Explorer II
    Sep 03, 2017
    I towed a 37' 12k 5er with a Ram 6.4L Hemi/4.10. It did fine. Hills, wind, didn't matter much. You will use more fuel, and it will work harder on uphill grades.

    In general, you'll be fine.
  • 2112's avatar
    2112
    Explorer II
    Sep 03, 2017
    I went from a 7000lb TT to a 9000lb FW and am very happy I did. The FW tows, handles and hitches so much better/easier. It's a much better ride.
  • kw_00's avatar
    kw_00
    Explorer
    Sep 03, 2017
    5th wheel much easier to pull
    Truck is more then enough for a 9 K fifth wheel
    You don't need a diesel for 9k wieght either if that has crossed your mind
    More stability in the cross winds with a fifth wheel
    Payload is on door sticker and I suspect that you will be fine there
    I pull 10k with a gas 3/4 Gmc and have zero issues
    The extra 3k wieght won't be as notiacble as u think
    With newer fifth wheels you may not need or require a slider, I don't and have zero issues
    You have the right truck so go out and have fun picking out a great fifth wheel!!
  • guidry's avatar
    guidry
    Explorer II
    Sep 03, 2017
    In tow haul mode you probably won't see much difference in mpg. You will see an improvement in handling, especially in wind. Because the pin weight is centered in your truck bed and rear axle you won't have wind whipping or sway like you might pulling a TT. At least that was my observation when we switched. Good luck
  • dfletch's avatar
    dfletch
    Explorer
    Sep 03, 2017
    5th wheels pull better. They do add more wind resistance as they sit higher than TT.
  • Mike_Taverniti's avatar
    Mike_Taverniti
    Explorer
    Sep 03, 2017
    I think you will notice an improvement in how your truck feels towing. You should have no problems.
  • TomG2's avatar
    TomG2
    Explorer
    Sep 03, 2017
    First question, What is the Payload rating of your pickup?

About Travel Trailer Group

44,055 PostsLatest Activity: Dec 23, 2025