5th wheel purchase upgrade

[gcmxray]

We are considering a trade up to a 5th wheel and were wondering what everyone thinks of this unit. The one we have picked out is the Heartland Bighorn (model #3685RL). Any input or information would be greatly appreciated. I will be pulling the coach with a Chevy Silverado 2500HD with the allison transmission.

[TXiceman]

First thing to consider is your truck adequate to tow that trailer. Get the GVWR from the door jamb and the GCWR from the owners manual. Get your truck weighed with full fuel, cargo, passengers and hitch.

GVWR - loaded truck = max loaded trailer pin weight.

GCWR - loaded truck = max loaded trailer weight.

The pin weight on a typical 5th wheel is about 20% of the trailers GVWR. On a 3/4 ton truck, you will reach the GVWR of the truck before you reach the GCWR or the theoretical max tow rating as published by the truck manufacturer.

There are lots of RVers out there that are pulling a lot more than their truck is rated to tow and encourage others to follow suit. I recommend getting the weights, work out the numbers and see if you feel comfortable exceeding the manufacturers weight limits.

Ken

[jlb27537]

That trailer shows a 15,500lb GVWR. Figure at least 20% on the pin. That is 3,100 lbs.

You do not say what the GVWR and axle ratings are of your truck are. What is the rating from GM on it's Gross Combined Weight Rating.

With out knowing more info only you can decide if it is enough truck, but towing a trailer with a 15.5K GVWR with a 2500. Nope, you need more truck.

Jim

[tuffr2]

You should have a 1 ton dually to tow this 39 foot 15,000 plus lb. trailer w/o exceeding the weight in the bed over the rear axel and tires.

[bradufault]

I have a GMC 2500HD. If your pin weight is 3100 Pounds you r going to exceed the rear axel weight. You really need to check all the weight including each axle. The front one never seems to be the problem.