What is the Weight Capacity of Industry Standard Fifth Wheel Rails?
Question:
I have a 2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD, Extended Cab, 4wd Installed in the 6.5ft bed for my AirSafe Omni 25inch 5th Wheel RV Hitch are Valley Tow #70580 Base Rails installed using a Valley Tow # 55092 Base Rail Kit-Chevy. I understand that I am limited by the published GMC tow capacities and am not worried about that but I am wondering what and cant find data anywhere the ratings of the installed bed rails/installation kit, assuming it was properly done. Can you assist with any published data? And, what has happened to Valley Tow? Any help with be extremely appreciated! Regards,
asked by: Robert F
Helpful Expert Reply:
Valley Tow is no longer in business. It used to be the accepted capacity for all industry standard fifth wheel rails like your Valley Tow 55092 set is that they have the same capacity of any hitch that's installed in them. The current fifth wheel rails being released have specified capacities. This could explain why you are not able to find a capacity for yours.
If you would like to upgrade the 5th wheel hitch on your 2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD I recommend the B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider item # BWRVK3270. This hitch is compatible with industry standard rails like your Valley Tow set. The Patriot hitch has 3/4" thick dual jaws that provide 360-degree jaw-to-king-pin contact. This results in less rattle and more security than slide-bar jaws. The built-in slider provides the clearance required for your short-bed Sierra to turn safely at slow speeds. This hitch has a 16,000 lbs capacity.
Products Referenced in This Question
B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Dual Jaw - 18,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Sliding Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4500 lbs Vertical Load
- 18000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 17 - 19 Inch Tall
- 12 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- B and W
more information >
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