Which is best for pulling a fifth wheel, short or long box?

[Bill_I]

We are getting ready to purchase a 1 ton Dodge or GMC Denali PU to pull an overall length fifth wheel of 37 feet. Could we get some opinions on whether to go with a long box PU (8 foot)or a short box (6 1/2 foot). We are planning on being fulltime RVers for a couple of years.

[BarneyS]

Please do not double post. See any new replies to your question here.

[Cummins12V98]

One of these with rear air and the nice hitch and toolbox shown, you will be a very happy camper.

[rhagfo]

phillyg wrote:
Another longbox recommendation here, but you can get by with a short box with a slider, although a handful of FWs now have enough of a front cap cutaway to get near 90 degrees without a slider.

That is true, but you also give up usable closet space in the front closet! It is very nice to have a full width hanging closet.

This straight nose means the closet floor is flat the full width of the bedroom! :B

[phillyg]

Another longbox recommendation here, but you can get by with a short box with a slider, although a handful of FWs now have enough of a front cap cutaway to get near 90 degrees without a slider.

[Veebyes]

Never had anything but the current crew cab long box dually. Yes, it is big. It is a nuisance in car parks on the streets of older eastern town where streets sometimes tend to be a bit tighter but you get used to it.

We don't go downtown in those small towns very often & there is always plenty of room out in the back 40 of those big box store lots.

Plus, with or without trailer it drives nice.

[NC_Hauler]

B.O. Plenty wrote:
Had both. I prefer the long box. More room for the extra fuel tank, don't need a slider hitch, rides better, more stable in the wind. Just my opinion.

B.O.

agree...Had both, like long bed better.

[dapperdan]

I'm partial to long boxes, although I've owned two short box trucks as well. As far as towing a fifth wheel I myself would opt for a long box.

And as long as you're not committed to a trailer yet I'd also look into duallies right away. Never know where your trailer buying "adventure" is going to take you and with the dually you wouldn't have any towing concerns.

Dan

[B_O__Plenty]

Had both. I prefer the long box. More room for the extra fuel tank, don't need a slider hitch, rides better, more stable in the wind. Just my opinion.

B.O.

[TomC1216]

Another thing to consider is that a long bed usually accommodates a larger fuel tank, which is handy when traveling! I love my shortbed, but a 300 mile range is on the low side for any distances.

[rhagfo]

bfast54 wrote:
If you read his original post you will see he's talking going full time for at least a few years------ 37 foot fifth wheel ,that's going to put you in the twelve to fifteen thousand pound range.(or MORE).

Okay--- so that question was answered if you read it.:S

Long wheelbase is going to give you a much better ride ,and more capability of carrying extra stuff---(in the bed ).. if you're going full time ----you say you are..:W

X2 to this.
If not worried about fitting into a garage then go with the long bed. It is still personal choice!!!

[bfast54]

If you read his original post you will see he's talking going full time for at least a few years------ 37 foot fifth wheel ,that's going to put you in the twelve to fifteen thousand pound range.(or MORE).

Okay--- so that question was answered if you read it.:S

Long wheelbase is going to give you a much better ride ,and more capability of carrying extra stuff---(in the bed ).. if you're going full time ----you say you are..:W

[1414141414]

long box..... better ride

[Old-Biscuit]

What weight 5th wheel........that is more important on truck choice then length

[Allworth]

Another point is that a long box (almost) always has a more comfortable ride (towing or solo) due to the longer wheelbase.

(I say almost, because somebody who has modified the OEM suspension or added air-bags or something will come in and be willing to argue with a fence post about ride comfort.)

ON EDIT: Good point, Bob. I was typing at the same time that you were.