Does Fifth Wheel Hitch Weight Count for Payload Capacity

Updated 05/27/2020 | Published 09/17/2018

Question:

I am looking to buy a 5th wheel, my problem is that the truck says there is a 1788 payload limit on the truck. The hitch weight of the trailer is 1420 add the weight of the hitch 180 leaves only about 188 for anything else. That if i understand things correctly. We are not small so nobody can drive or ride in the truck, could in but on airbags or supersprings to get enough room for us.

asked by: Bob S

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the 1,420 lbs of hitch weight does count towards the payload capacity on a truck such as your 2014 Ford F-150. Unfortunately there is no way you can increase this capacity so if you are looking at a fifth wheel with a pin weight in the 1,500 lb range you would need to invest in a different truck that has a larger payload capacity.

I realize that is not an inexpensive solution but safely towing a fifth wheel often requires a heavy duty truck.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Wes H.

5/24/2020

I have a similar question. 2016 Ram eco diesel. 4 corner air suspension, 10 ply tires, 3.92 axle. Dodge says payload is 1260. My fifth wheel is dry 6410 with hitch pin weight of 1380. Using Andersen Ultimate Hitch. Plenty light to tow but should I be concerned about exceeding payload? Does that mean I can’t tow with that combination?

Chris R.

5/27/2020

Based on the specs you listed, you would be exceeding the truck's payload with that pin weight. I might try to verify this capacity again with a local Dodge dealer - but if it's correct, you'll need to go with a lighter trailer.