Truck Cargo Capacity vs. King Pin Weight Capacity for 2005 Chevy 2500 HD

Question:

My 2005 Chevy 2500HD door jamb sticker says payload of 2740 lbs. The owners manual states a maximum of 3000 lbs king pin weight. Does this mean I can buy a fifth wheel ,with a pin weight up 3000lbs.

asked by: STEVE B

Expert Reply:

Yes. When your owner's manual states a higher king pin weight of 3,000 lbs versus the payload capacity of 2,740 lbs it is simply because the king pin is centered over your axle and supported directly by the frame. With payload there are places in the bed that are slightly indirect support and are not centered over the axle so the truck is not suited for the same weight.

The king pin weight also is not accounting for the 5th wheel hitch itself, so for instance the Reese # RP30051 you asked from with its 147 lbs weight along with the custom base rail system like # RP50064-58 for your 2005 Chevy 2500 is not included in that capacity rating. Technically the frame is rated higher than the 3,000 lbs, but you are limited to 3,000 lbs for your trailer king pin weight.

expert reply by: Jason S