What Size Truck is Recommended for Towing a 16,000 Pound 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 05/04/2010 | Published 05/02/2010

Question:

what size truck to pull a 16000lb fifth wheel?

asked by: phil

Expert Reply:

While there is not a specific truck size required, to maximize towing capacity and minimize wear and tear on the drive train of the truck, I would recommend a full size, 3/4 or 1 ton truck like the Ford F-250 or F350, Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 2500 or 3500, or Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 Series.

I would recommend a truck with the 8 foot bed if possible, which would eliminate the need for a sliding hitch or a replacement pin box for the fifth wheel. That is not to say that other trucks are incapable so you will need to check the towing capacities of the truck to determine if it is capable of towing a 16,000 pound 5th wheel trailer.

I would also choose a truck with the full tow package that includes the trailer connector and associated wiring. I have included a link to 5th wheel towing information below.

expert reply by: Mike L