Fifth Wheel vs Travel Trailer
This is probably a loaded question, but here goes. Is there a fifth wheel that is safely tow-able by a 1/2 ton truck? I have a 2007 Sierra 1500 with the tow package and I am pretty sure my tow capac...
Forum Discussion
When it comes to 5th wheels there's two numbers that are most important, payload and RAWR. With a TT you're only carrying about 10-15 percent of the trailer's weight, but with a 5th wheel you're carrying 20-25 percent of the trailer's weight. At your max tow rating of 7,000 lbs you'll only need 1,050 lbs of available payload for a TT, but 1,750 lbs for a 5th wheel. 5th wheels eat up payload because of their heavier pin weights.
You also have to be mindful of the Rear Axle Weight Rating. The 5th wheel hitch is situated right over the rear axle. The rear axle bears the weight of pin so you need to make sure that you have a high enough axle rating to support the pin. This is one of the shortcomings of 1/2 tons.
If you want to tow a 5th wheel with a 1/2 ton then it's best to stick with short lightweight models. It's a limited market and you might not find what you're looking for. Some 1/2 tons are better suited for towing a 5th wheel like the new F-150's with the max trailering options. You're getting 2,000+ lbs of payload and higher rated axles. Your options vastly improve when your ratings are in this area. With the limitations of 1/2 tons, you really get more bang for your buck with a TT.
You also have to be mindful of the Rear Axle Weight Rating. The 5th wheel hitch is situated right over the rear axle. The rear axle bears the weight of pin so you need to make sure that you have a high enough axle rating to support the pin. This is one of the shortcomings of 1/2 tons.
If you want to tow a 5th wheel with a 1/2 ton then it's best to stick with short lightweight models. It's a limited market and you might not find what you're looking for. Some 1/2 tons are better suited for towing a 5th wheel like the new F-150's with the max trailering options. You're getting 2,000+ lbs of payload and higher rated axles. Your options vastly improve when your ratings are in this area. With the limitations of 1/2 tons, you really get more bang for your buck with a TT.
