Is Over 20% Pin Weight for a 5th Wheel Trailer Too Much

Updated 09/20/2021 | Published 09/19/2021

Question:

I have a 2021 solitude 372wbr with 8,000lbs axle upgrade, Onan generator and washer dryer over the pin in closet. GVWR is 18000 and we have weighed several times and our pin weight is 4,250. Maybe 300 lbs in the front storage including propane. Which makes the pin weight about 24 percent of GVWR. Which of over the 20 percent recommendation. Right at CGVWR for the truck and the max cargo. Like I said we have weighed several times and have made adjustments as much as we could. Do you see and issue being that high in pin weight? Both the fifth wheel Hitch and pin box are rated 4500 lbs. thanks

asked by: Paul

Expert Reply:

The standard pin weight for a fifth wheel trailer is around 20% of the gross weight. That said, some will have a higher pin weight and some will have a lower pin weight. It's just an estimate, not a rule. If the trailer pulls fine and the truck can handle it then there won't be any issues. It's better to have too much tongue weight than not enough.

I recommend making sure the truck's suspension is beefed up to handle the extra stress. A set of air bags like the Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Extreme Duty Air Helper Springs part # F2709 will do a great job of helping with the extra load on the vehicle.

expert reply by: Conner L