Does the Weight Of the 5th Wheel Hitch Get Factored Into Payload On a 2020 GMC Sierra 3500

Question:

I have a 2020 GMC 3500 diesel srw standard bed. The payload capacity on truck is 3700lbs. I’m considering purchasing a fifth wheel trailer with a hitch weight of 3200lbs. Do I subtract the hitch weight from the pay load capacity which would leave only 500lbs for rest of cargo I could put in truck? Thanks.

asked by: James

Helpful Expert Reply:

The weight of the fifth wheel hitch will need to be subtracted from the payload capacity as well as the pin weight of the trailer. For example; if you have a 4,000 lb payload capacity, the trailer has a pin weight of 3,000 lbs, and the fifth wheel hitch weighs 200 lbs then your remaining weight capacity for cargo is 800 lbs. Please keep in mind the pin weight list by the trailer manufacturer is dry weight, not wet which is what the above uses. This should also all be laid out for you in the owner's manual as well.

If you don't already have a fifth wheel hitch picked out, the B&W Companion OEM part # BWRVK3715 is by far the best option on the market and only weighs around 150 lbs. If you will be nearing the payload capacity then you are going to want a set of suspension enhancements, the Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Air Helper Springs part # F2709 have a 7,500 lb weight capacity and are adjustable.

expert reply by: Conner L