Recommendations for 5th Wheel Towing with 2010 Toyota Tundra

Question:

We have a 2010 Toyota Tundra crew max with tow pkg. We are towing a Coleman light weight 5th wheel. It tows it beautifully without any problems. However we want to upgrade to an Open Range Mesa Ridge 337rls. I am really concerned about the total weight towing. We want to be safe for ourslves and others on the road. So my question is do you know if we could tow with our Tundra or do you think we should go with a diesel? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Rubin

Helpful Expert Reply:

As a first step, you will want to find the towing capacity of your Tundra. Take a look at the sticker or plate in the door jamb of the drivers side front door. Look for the Gross Combined Weight Rating, GCWR. From this figure, subtract the GVW (vehicle curb weight plus weight of passengers and cargo). Your result will be the maximum weight of the trailer you can safely tow.

It is usually a good idea to go with a tow vehicle that has some capacity to spare, because frequently towing at or just below the capacity of the truck can significantly shorten the lifespan of the drive line components.

If you decide that your Tundra has sufficient capacity to tow the 5th wheel you are interested in, installing a supplemental transmission cooler like part # D13503 would offer inexpensive protection for your transmission.

If you find you need to replace your tow rig, I would recommend a one ton or at least a 3/4 ton Diesel long bed truck. A 3/4 or 1 ton truck will offer plenty of towing capacity, and a Diesel engine offers durability, high torque and reasonable fuel economy. A long bed truck will eliminate the need for a sliding hitch or a Sidewinder to provide necessary clearance between the truck cab and the front of the 5th wheel.

expert reply by: Mike L