How To Choose Between A 1 Ton, 3/4 Ton, and 1/2 Ton Truck For Towing  

Question:

Expert Reply:

According to Nada Guides, the 2012 Keystone Cougar M-327 has a base weight of 10,175 lbs. Therefore, you will need a truck that is capable of handling this type of load. For this, I recommend looking at a 1 ton truck as opposed to a 1/2 ton or 3/4 model. A 1 ton truck will create far less strain on the vehicle's suspension and driveline components in comparison to a 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton model.

You have a few options to choose from for a 1 ton truck such as a Dodge Ram 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, or a Ford F-350. Each of these trucks offer a diesel motor and will be well equipped for your towing needs. I would also suggest looking into a long bed option to eliminate pesky turning clearance issues needed for 5th wheel towing applications. In addition to towing capacity, each of these newer models has an optional factory tow prep package that includes a gooseneck hitch, integrated brake controller, and 5th wheel mounting pucks.

For a complete towing package, I have a few additional items you may want to consider for each truck:

2017 Dodge Ram 3500 W/ Factory Prep Package:
5th Wheel Hitch- B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch part # BWRVK3600
In-Bed Harness- Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Harness part # 41157
Suspension Enhancements- Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancements part # TDR3500CA

2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 W/ Factory Prep Package:
5th Wheel Hitch- B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch part # BWRVK3700
In-Bed Harness- Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Harness part # 41157
Suspension Enhancements- Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement part # TFR350SDJ

2017 Ford F-350 W/ Factory Prep Package:
5th Wheel Hitch- B&W Companion OEM 5th-Wheel Hitch part # BWRVK3300
In-Bed Harness- Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness part # C56000
Suspension Enhancements- Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement part # TGMRCK25D

The B&W Companion hitches are one of our most popular 5th wheel hitches with a stellar reputation. The in-bed wiring harness will allow you to easily connect and disconnect your trailers wiring harness without having to extend or splice any of the trailers wiring harness and the Timbren springs are a must have suspension enhancement that will dramatically reduce the strain and wear of your current components.

expert reply by: Conner L

0