Towing Capacity for 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 Towing Fifth Wheel Trailer

Question:

Im looking at getting a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Crew Cab 4WD with a V8 5.3L engine with a Tow Pkg and Brake Controller and it has a tow rating of 9,200 lbs. What is the max amount of lbs for a 5th wheel RV that I can safely tow? What a good way to do the math to figure this out? Thanks you for your help. -

asked by: Shari S

Expert Reply:

The max trailer weight you can tow with a fifth wheel would be the figure GM gave you for the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 of 9,200 lb. There are several factors that contribute to the towing capacity like gear ratio, engine size, cab/bed size etc. but if GM puts out a max towing capacity for a vehicle that number is the max you could do regardless of trailer style. There isn't a separate set of capacities for bumper pull trailers and fifth wheel trailers.

The Reese Select Plus hitch part # RP30081 that you referenced would be a fantastic hitch if your truck is a long bed. It has one of the nicest jaw styles around and has more than enough capacity and 20,000 lbs trailer weight. If you have a short bed you'd need a slider hitch instead so that you have enough clearance to make tight turns between the cab and the trailer nose. For that you'd want the part # RP30083 which is the slider version of this hitch.

You'll need a rail kit to install in the bed of your truck. For that you'd want to go with a custom install kit since it will minimize install time and drilling. For that the kit you'd want is the part # RP50064-58 which is a confirmed fit.

expert reply by: Jameson C