What is Best Truck For Towing Hefty Fifth Wheel Trailer That Is Over 20,000-lbs

Question:

Looking at the Jayco 4212 fifth wheel which has a gross weight of 20,695 lbs. Which vehicle would you recommend to tow with? I like the F450 dually with the 6.7 turbo diesel but all my truck buddies are telling me to get the Dodge Ram 3500 dually. Can you please advise which would be a better truck for the long haul.

asked by: Dave B

Expert Reply:

First, both the Ford F-450 dually and the Dodge Ram 3500 dually are solid trucks that have the muscle to tow a hefty fifth-wheel trailer like the Jayco 4212 fifth wheel that you are looking at.

As you look at your options, make sure to go with the longer bed that is 8 feet so that your towing is easier overall as well as this leads to the most cost-effective setup. It sounds like you are looking at the diesel option regarding fuel which is a great choice for hefty fifth-wheel trailers, especially when going long distances. Both dually options also will provide greater towing capacity and a more stable and smoother ride.

When it comes to which is better for you, I recommend getting the factory prep package and choosing the truck that best fits your hitch so that quicker and easier installation. For example, the B&W Companion Hitch, Item # BWRVK3300, drops right into the Ford prep package while the B&W Companion Hitch, Item # BWRVK3600, works with Ram prep packages.

No matter which truck you choose, I highly recommend getting an in-bed wiring harness, like the Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector for Aluminum Beds - 7' Long # C57008, that will plug into your vehicle's factory wiring and makes your whole towing experience easier.

I have attached an article and a video for you to check out.

expert reply by: Brint H

Brint H.

5/1/2018

First, both the Ford F-450 dually and the Dodge Ram 3500 dually are solid trucks that have the muscle to tow a hefty fifth-wheel trailer like the Jayco 4212 fifth wheel that you are looking at. As you look at your options, make sure to go with the longer bed that is 8 feet so that your towing is easier overall as well as this leads to the most cost-effective setup. It sounds like you are looking at the diesel option regarding fuel which is a great choice for hefty fifth-wheel trailers, especially when going long distances. Both dually options also will provide greater towing capacity and a more stable and smoother ride. When it comes to which is better for you, I recommend getting the factory prep package and choosing the truck that best fits your hitch so that quicker and easier installation. For example, the B&W Companion Hitch, Item # BWRVK3300, drops right into the Ford prep package while the B&W Companion Hitch, Item # BWRVK3600, works with Ram prep packages. No matter which truck you choose, I highly recommend getting an in-bed wiring harness, like the Tow Ready 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Wiring Harness, Item # 20110-010, that will plug into your vehicle's factory wiring and makes your whole towing experience easier. I have attached an article and a video for you to check out.