How to Choose the Correct Truck for Towing a 5th Wheel

Question:

I just inherited my parents 2007 DRV 36TK3. The GW on the sticker says 15,200lb. I know I need to upgrade my truck as I currently have an 05 F250 V10. Is it necessary to get a 1 ton truck or will a 3/4 ton work? Dually or will a SRW work? I also currently have a Pullrite Superglide 2700 hitch rated at 16K. Will that hitch be ok?

asked by: Greg

Expert Reply:

As long as the towing capacity (Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) - Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)) of the tow vehicle exceeds the gross trailer weight (GTW) of your 2007 DRV Mobile Suites 36TK3 then you can safely tow it. I think it goes without saying that a 1 ton truck will have a greater towing capacity than a 3/4 ton but the best option for you will depend on your wants/needs. Please keep in mind that the closer you are to the vehicle's towing capacity, the harder the vehicle will have to work which will cause things to wear out faster. You will also need to take into consideration the gross axle weight rating (GAWR). This refers to the maximum load that can be placed on the vehicle's axle. If the pin weight of the trailer exceeds the GAWR of a single wheel truck then you will want to look into trucks with dual rear wheels.

Similar to towing capacity and trailer weight, as long as the gross trailer weight (GTW) does not exceed the weight capacity of your 5th wheel hitch then you can safely tow it. However, you will want a little bit of room if you load the trailer heavy on some trips more than others. If you can tell me the year, make, and model of your new towing rig I would be happy to make sure you get the right parts to set it up properly.

I have also attached a help article which goes further into how to select the correct truck for towing a 5th wheel trailer.

expert reply by: Conner L