Going Bigger? Got my answer!

[1Adam12]

We just purchased a new Keystone Montana Fifth Wheel model 3750FL. We had been using and towing a Cedar Creek Silverback 33' BHS for the last six years. We travel all over Florida and also into GA, NC mountains and SC coast. I did a lot of research including asking questions on this forum and the Keystone owners site about towing a larger fifth wheel. We added about 300 pounds in PIN weight and about 2300 pounds overall. We were within the towing specs of the truck including gear, people, hitch etc. My concern was would we notice the weight and would this be an issue with my SRW Dodge 3500 Mega Cab. I looked at the DRW vs. SRW opinions (stability etc.)and the length issues as well in going from 33 to just over 38.

The Montana is equipped with the MOR/ryde pin box and suspension. I use a Pullrite Superglide hitch so we added a new capture plate to the front. What a difference the MOR/ryde hitch and suspension makes! This combination tows better than the Silverback and I don't notice any difference in the performance of the truck. This was tested on I-75 in a construction zone with bumpy uneven lanes and during a torrential rain storm. This is a stock truck with the exception of Bilstein shocks. For this truck and this fifth wheel I am glad we made the move. The SRW performs perfectly in this scenario with a fifth wheel that weighs approx. 12.5K dry.

My point is that I wish I had had this MOR/ryde system (or anything else that performs the same) a long time ago. I'm also happy that we purchased the larger unit (after doing the numbers for weight and capability) and see that it's actually easier to tow. I also back this unit into a covered storage area with a large boat on one side and a steel pole on the other with no real difference other than obviously where to stop. Hopefully this post will help someone who may be considering going up without going over their trucks capabilities.

[JKrussow]

IS, meaning Independent Suspension. I am looking at either of the MorRyde equalizers that you are referring to. Need to do more reading since the IS is way over my budget.

[Atom_Ant]

The one I was referring to was the LRE - the shockless version of the LR installed as OEM by Montana.

[1Adam12]

Hey John- I'm not sure what the "IS" is becuase I'm new to MOR/ryde but it's either the SRE or CRE suspension system (not sure on exact model) and the rubber pin box. Hope this helps.

[JKrussow]

When you all are saying MorRyde suspension are you referring to the IS system?

[Rob_Fla]

Our Pinnacle is our first trailer with the MorRyde Pin Box and MorRyde suspension.
The first tow was on I-4 in Orlando when we picked it up from RV Direct.
The section of I-4 through Orlando is real rough and I noticed a immediate difference with the MorRyde components.
We did switch from a SRW to a DRW after having our Pinnacle weighted, with a loaded pin weight of 3,500 lbs we decided to move to a DRW, much more stable on windy days ad rough roads and sure rides a lot better than our SRW.

[Atom_Ant]

Sounds great! We had a 3400RL and SRW Ford SB and it was a good match. The 3400RL was also the first Mor-Ryde suspension and we had the 5th airborne. World of difference over towing our previous standard spring 2955RL Montana.

[Reelay]

Sounds like a good combo for you. Weight issues and length issues always are a good thing to consider when purchasing a new or used fiver and of course what your tow rig is designed to pull .
Our fiver is an older 2003 model and it weighs at around 12,000# or a little more when loaded for camping. The newer trailers are constructed out of lighter materials so it seems as though a 34 footer will weigh about the same as ours or even less. That being said our truck is always pulling strong with our trailer attached.{ rated at 15,650# tow capacity} But I always watch the EGTs and temps.

[RockyMt]

Glad you like the trailer-did the same two years ago-3400rl.Love it!