Backing TT vs 5er in State Parks

[Vic99]

I will be moving up from a pup and am concerned about backing a longer rig into State park campsites here in Wisconsin. The sites are wooded and can handle plenty of trailer length but the narrow campground roads limit the swing clearance. My best guess from all the posts I've read is that I should probably stay under 30' for a TT, but could go a little longer if a 5er. But how much longer? Would a 32' 5er require any more or less swing room than a 29-30'TT? I'm not concerned about my backing skills, but rather the amount of physical space required. Pickup is a 2500 6.5 box. Anyone have first hand experience? Thanks in advance.

Vic

[Crodad]

The short answer is that a TT is easier to backup than a 5ver.

Since the TT is on the bumper the reaction time is quicker.

[waltbennett]

With two axles, anything from about 60 degrees on up and it's a **** shoot as to where your trailer will go on dirt or gravel. Even somewhat on pavement for that matter. The side pressures on your tires means they don't 'steer' that well and will slip sideways instead. It'll still turn, but not quite like you think it will, so you really, REALLY, need a spotter.

[IdaD]

Vic99 wrote:
I would definitely use a slider hitch.

It totally depends on the setup as to what he needs. I assumed I needed a slider hitch but with my short bed and a longer kinpin on the trailer I bashed into my tailgate before I could slide the hitch all the way back. I switched to a rail mount Andersen flipped back and it clears my tailgate and I seem to be able to turn plenty tight. I'm not sure if I could quite turn 90 degrees but I'm also not sure what good cranking my trailer all the way to 90 degrees would do.

I think 4' is a good ballpark estimate on what you'll gain versus a rear hitch mounted travel trailer. Getting a shorter overall package is one of the benefits of going to a fifth wheel.

[laknox]

donn0128 wrote:
Without a slider hitch your first and biggest problem is the short bed. That will generally limit turning radius to around 40 degrees.

My '02 D'max can get probably 80 degrees when backing up with my very square-front Komfort, and I don't have a slider. Just sayin'...

Lyle

[Durb]

I was told once that a rule of thumb was a 4 ft. pick up due to the truck over hang on the 5er. I went from a 25' bumper pull (bumper to ball) to a 31' fifth wheel. The longer fifth wheel with truck actually tows shorter overall. I could put the TT anywhere I wanted but struggle with my cut angles on the 5er. I know my skills will come and think the 5er will be more maneuverable and fit into tighter spaces looking forward.

[Vic99]

I would definitely use a slider hitch.

[donn0128]

Without a slider hitch your first and biggest problem is the short bed. That will generally limit turning radius to around 40 degrees.