Recommended Height Between Truck Bed Sides and Fifth Wheel Overhang

Question:

Hello, I have a Ram 2500 4x4 and towing a Rockwood 28 ft signature ultra light. I have had some swaying occur, 55 to 60 mph. the trailer is not exactly level with the bed of the truck. What is the recommended height between the truck sides and fifth wheel overhang? Husky 16ks hitch Reese Revolution King pin arm Thanks

asked by: Craig

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your 2017 Ram 2500 should have at least 5" to 6" from the top of the bed sides to the fifth wheel's overhang. If you are encountering sway a weight distribution system would be the best option to make towing a more enjoyable and safer experience. In order to choose the best weight distribution system you will first need to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your Ram 2500.

The tongue weight is typically between 10% and 15% of your trailer's GVWR but you'll want to verify it by using a scale such as the etrailer # e99044 or by using one of the methods outlined in the help article on determining tongue weight I've linked for you. From there, simply add on the weight of the cargo behind the rear axle of your vehicle and you'll have your TTW. The ideal system would be one in which your TTW would fall somewhere in the middle of the weight distribution system's tongue weight capacity. I've added a link to our page with each of our weight distribution systems for you to come back to once you determine your TTW or if you let me know what it is I'd be happy to make a recommendation for you.

expert reply by: Kyle S