Hitch Extension to Tow a Trailer While Carrying In-Bed Camper in Back of Truck  

Question:

Expert Reply:

When using a hitch extender it reduces the tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch by 50 percent. This issue is further hindered by the fact that the weight of the in-bed camper, from the rear axle back, is counting against the tongue weight. It is also suggested that a lifted truck has an unknown capacity and is likely diminished.

You will also want to check the truck owners manual for the gross combined weight rating (GCWR) for the truck in the owners manual or the sticker in the door jamb. This is the absolute most that the combined weight of the truck, camper, trailer, and everything in them, including fuel, cargo, and occupants, can weigh. An 8,000 pound trailer, 3,000 pound camper, and a big truck would likely be pushing the limits of the GCWR.

With a trailer hitch with high enough capacity though the tongue weight reduction would not be an issue. What I recommend though is the most heavy duty hitch you can get. I can offer extensions, see link, but going with a different hitch and special extension would be the way to go.

Basically you'd be looking at a TorkLift set up including a hitch and SuperTruss extension. These are the only setups that have the capacity to handle your application. I would need to know the year of your truck to determine what will fit. The K-series, indicating 4-wheel drive, also has a lower towing capacity than a 2-wheel drive model though I do not know if that also is reflected in the GCWR so make sure that if you are checking the owners manual to view the right configuration.

expert reply by: Michael H

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