How To Reduce Hitch/Pin Weight While 5th Wheel Towing

Updated 10/04/2021 | Published 10/03/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Ultimate Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(705)

$714.89

Question:

I have a 2021 Ford F-350. I will be pulling a 5th wheel toy hauler with a GVWR of 16950 lbs and hitch weight of 3400 lbs. My truck’s rear axle has a GAWR of 7230. I would like to reduce the weight on the rear axle so I can add a passenger to the truck’s rear seat. Since I do not need the 3” tow hitch under the truck, will removing it take weight off the rear axle? Will moving the spare truck tire to the RV garage take weight off the rear axle? When not boondocking, will removal of the 288 lb generator at the front of the RV reduce the hitch weight? Thank you.

asked by: Ron F

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, removing items from the front of the trailer or rear of the vehicle will reduce weight over the rear axle but this would still not allow you to exceed any of the manufacturer's payload or GAWR ratings if that is the goal. These figures will remain unchanged from the manufacturer. That said, if you're having issues with a heavy pin weight we do have options to help mitigate these. I recommend the Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Air Helper Springs part # AL86KV for DRW or part # AL55FJ or SRW. The benefit of air springs over other suspension enhancements is that you can easily adjust the air pressure for the best support and comfort with any load.

expert reply by: Conner L