I have a 2011 Ram 1500 SLT 4x4 with the 5.7 Hemi. On the chart it says my towing capacity is 10050 pounds (4560 kg). I have always only ever towed a bumper pull travel trailer. I am hoping to purchase a 5th wheel trailer this spring. I'm not sure how to word my question but what I want to know is if there is a difference in towing ability from a bumper pull to a 5th Wheel. My bumper pull weighs in at about 2100 kg. before loading up with water, etc and I pull it quite easy. If I purchase a 5th wheel - do I still have to stay well within that roughly 4600 kg for the GVWR of the trailer or are things different with a 5th wheel? I need to do everything myself (hubby is terminally ill and can't do anything to help me) so I just want to make sure I'll be safe with weights, etc. I appreciate all the info/help you can supply me with.
One more question - is hauling a 5th wheel easier and/or safer than a bumper pull? We are hoping to do a lot of travelling throughout Canada and down to Arizona and Texas this coming summer and I want to make sure I get the right rig for us.
Thanks.

 

Still have to stay under the 10050 lbs tow rating.

A fifth wheel trailer will pull differently than your bumper pull. Weight distribution is different, as is the trailer pivot point. (some folks think the fifth wheel is easier to deal with.....) So, watch your weight, and just realize you gotta a lotta weight back there to push you around.

 

Thank you for the quick answer. It's exactly what I needed to know. The 5th wheel won't be one of the huge guys, just a used one that's no more than 30 feet. Thanks again.

 

30 feet??? Hope that is one of the ultra-light fellers...... otherwise, I suspect you are going to be pushing your weight limit REALLY hard.

 

What cab configuration is your truck? A regular cab long bed will handle a 5th wheel better than a crew cab and will have a greater payload. Travel trailer tongue weight is 10% to 15% depending on the loading, The 5th wheel will be more but on the rear axle so no WD hitch. One consideration is the height of the 5th wheel when getting into campsites and tree branches.

If you go with the 5th wheel go as light as you can go and still get what you want. Pay attention to the axle ratings.

 

If I find a 30 ft in my budget it will definitely have to be an Ultra Light. I have also been contemplating finding a Dodge 3/4 ton with the larger engine so that I can safely haul a larger trailer. Would like a 3/4 ton Diesel but that's out of my price range. Mostly my concerns were about the difference in hauling a bumper pull as opposed to a 5th wheel and if the weight GVWR maintains the same on them.

 

Thanks for that information. It is quite helpful. My truck is the 4 door but not the big one. My box is a tad over 6 ft. Again, as I mentioned above, I may consider trying to find a 3/4 ton for my towing needs and with your helpful info I may look for something with the longer box if I do go with a 5th wheel. There is a lot more things to consider than just "go buy a trailer and a truck and go camping" !

 

Friend of mine has a 2010 Dodge 2500 with the short bed, and he pulls his fifth wheel trailer with it just fine. (I think it's a six foot bed....) The biggest thing with the heavier duty truck, is it has MUCH bigger brakes, and heavier springs, so, it can handle towing more weight.

 

there are a number of different weights to consider. vehicle loading information is detailed in the owners manual; to help figure it out. If you going into the mountains in Canada...you must be in the weight limits or the cops will not let you continue until you have the proper vehicle to handle it. If that means getting a bigger truck...your not moving until that truck shows up.

I have towed with 1500 and 2500 trucks...both had identical engine and transmissions. high rear axle ratio in the 2500. Same wheel base. both were bumper pull. the 1500 had wd hitch.
Suspension wise it wasn't even close. You don't even feel the trailer with the 2500 suspension. The 1500 needed a wd hitch with sway control and still did not tow any where near the 2500 without wd hitch. Unloaded with no trailer...its the opposite...the 2500 rides like a lumber wagon...1500 smooth.

5th wheels are a much nicer towing experience. will definitely tow with much less sway than a bumper pull.

 

Thank you.