Comparing Tow Vehicles for a 16K - 18K 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

Im considering purchasing a luxury 5th wheel. I think the pin weight is about 3000 lbs and the GVW is between 16,000 to 18,000 lbs depending on which model. From what Ive learned on limited research is that a 2017 F350 Super Duty with the 6.7 L diesel, 8foot bed and a lower gear ratio would have a 20,000 lbs towing capacity. Also, how do you rate the factory installed fifth wheel kit? Interested in the Chevy trucks too but the 3500 only comes with dual rear wheels and I would not want DRW. Can an F250 or Chevy 2500 work for a large fifth wheel? Thanks!

asked by: Lonnie W

Helpful Expert Reply:

For a 16K or 18K 5th wheel trailer you will definitely want to go with the 2017 Ford F-350. Even if the weight capacity of your trailer falls within the weight capacity of an F-250 or Chevy Silverado 2500 there will be much more strain on the whole vehicle than there will be for the F-350. A general rule of thumb for safety when it comes to towing is to get equipment that is rated for well over the weight of the trailer you will be pulling so that you will not be pushing your tow vehicle or equipment to its limit.

Different 5th wheel hitches have different weight ratings just like a trailer hitch receiver or even the trucks you are looking at have. When choosing a 5th wheel hitch it is always wise to use that same rule of thumb and get one that exceeds the GVW of your trailer so that your limiting factor is not your 5th wheel hitch.

If you get the 2017 F-350 with the factory rail kit (or puck system as it is sometimes called) then one of the best hitches you can use is the Demco Hijacker UMS Double Pivot 5th Wheel Hitch # DM8550033 it has a single wrap around jaw that contacts the king pin 360 degrees which helps to reduce chucking and jarring. It also has cushioned polyurethane dampeners to help make the ride more smooth. This will install in the pucks and can be removed for a clean bed if you need to haul something in your truck bed.

You will also want to make sure that you have a 7-Way connector in the bed of your F-350 as well since it will help to make connecting and disconnecting your trailer much easier. If your F-350 doesn't come with a 7-Way in the bed then you can simply install the Curt # C56000.

If your F-350 doesn't come with a base rail for a 5th wheel hitch then just let me know if it is a 2WD or 4WD and I will be more than happy to make a recommendation for you.

I have attached videos for you to check out as well.