Trying to understand payload
We are getting ready to upsize our current truck and camper and hit the road full-time. We have been having trouble finding a truck that can handle the payload of most small to medium 5th wheels. Mo...
Forum Discussion
karmi wrote:
Thanks everyone, I think things are a little clearer now. My only problem with most 3500s is how high off the ground they are. I have very little meniscus left in my knees and even with running boards, I still need a step to get in them. We will have to check them out again and see if there are ways to make them lower.
I have one more probably crazy question. Would packing your 5th wheel more heavily behind the wheels lessen your hitch weight? I realize if you overdid this it might effect he rear wheels of your truck, but maybe to a smaller degree it might help with total payload on the truck? Have I completely lost my mind?
My personal observation for all the trucks is that the 2500 and 3500's all ride at the same height. The height primarily differs only with 2wd vs. 4wd. 4wd rides higher. So try looking at 3500's in 2wd if you need to keep a lower truck, should ride the same as a 2500 in 2wd. Also, expect the 3500's to ride a bit rougher due to the firmer suspension they generally have.
and as for taking weight off the hitch, yes, that will happen as you add weight behind the wheels of your trailer. However, you really want about 20% to 25% of the 5th's weight on the axle to reduce the chance of the tail wagging the dog.
