Do I Need To Count Fifth Wheel Hitch Weight When Calculating Vehicle Payload

Question:

In the process of trying to figure out the right vehicle to tow a Vanleigh Vilano 320GK UVW 12,660 GVWR 16,000 and hitch weight of 2600. Do you take the actual weight of the 5th wheel hitch into consideration for the estimated payload? Thanks

asked by: Rich

Expert Reply:

Yes, the weight of the 5th wheel hitch needs to be considered when looking at vehicle payload capacity.

For example if you have a B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch for Ram Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 25,000 lbs
# BWRVK3600 that weighs about 225 pounds, and your tongue weight is 2600 pounds you will need a truck that has a payload capacity of at least 3000 pounds or better. You will need to consider cargo and passengers in the payload capacity too.

expert reply by: David B