Best Truck and 5th Wheel Hitch for Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer
Updated 01/04/2016 | Published 01/02/2016
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Question:
Need correct truck to pull 5th wheel weighing GVWR of 16,600 lbs.
asked by: Paul J
Expert Reply:
The Ram trucks are the most popular trucks for towing and what I would likely use if it were me. I recommend at least a 3/4 ton truck (such as a Ram 2500, Ford F-250, or Chevy/GMC 2500) with a long bed and a diesel motor. The 3/4 and 1-ton trucks will have the higher towing capacities and stronger suspension compared to the 1/2 tons.
Diesel motors offer more torque across the RPM spectrum compared to the gasoline motors but a diesel motor is not a must-have feature. A long bed is recommended to avoid having to spend extra money on a slider hitch or alternate pin box for clearance when turning.
If you go with a new 2016 Ram truck then you can get one that comes with the factory 5th wheel prep package. then all you will need is a hitch that will fit directly into that prep package. I recommend the Curt Q20 # C16530-16021. This hitch features a full floating cushioned head for ease of hooking up and a smooth ride. I have included a link to a video review for you.
The 2016 Fords also have a factory prep package that will allow you to install a 5th wheel hitch directly to it without an additional mount kit. The version of the Curt Q20 that fits the Ford prep package is # C16530-16017.
There isn't a factory prep package yet for the new 2016 Chevy and GMC trucks so you would need a separate mount kit if you went with a GM truck. For a below the bed mount that is similar to the factory prep packages offered by Ford and Chrysler I recommend Demco installation kit # DM8551010. Then for a hitch I recommend # DM8550032.
