Can I Tow A Grand Design Reflection 303RLS With A 2018 Chevy 2500 HD?

Updated 09/27/2023 | Published 09/22/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(608)

$377.80

Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers - Rear Axle

(1353)

$528.84

Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs

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$736.95

Curt Custom Fifth Wheel Installation Kit for Chevy/GMC - Carbide Finish

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$267.39

Question:

Towing capacity question. 2018 Chevy K2500HD with diesel engine. Chevy specs say max payload is is 2,513 lbs and max 5th wheel limit is 13,500 lbs. Will the truck safely pull a Grand Reflection 303RLS with hitch weight of 1,865lbs, UVW 9,854lbs and GVWR 11,995lbs? Using the Curt E16 hitch? Please let me know if I haven’t provided enough information and if that’s the case what else you might need to know. Thanks,

asked by: James

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, I believe you can tow a Grand Design Reflection 303RLS with your 2018 Chevy 2500 HD. With the 5th wheel towing limit of 13,500, you will be below capacity, even with the camper fully loaded.

A fifth wheel hitch like the Curt E16 # C16115 will have sufficient capacity to tow your camper. I will say that the E16 is more of a budget option, and if you plan to tow frequently I recommend upgrading to a Curt A16 hitch like the # C16120. This will have much smoother head rotation, and it features a 360 degree double jaw, versus the slide bar jaw on the E16. You will experience smoother towing and a lot less "chucking". The A series hitches will give you a better towing experience overall. You will need to install a base rail kit # C16411-204, if you do not already have fifth wheel rails in the bed of your truck.

Also, a fixed hitch like the Curt # C16120 is recommended for trucks with an 8' bed. For short bed trucks, a sliding hitch like the Curt # C16521 may be needed. The slider will provide additional clearance between the nose of the camper and the cab of your truck when making sharp turns.

Since you are going to be pushing your truck close to capacity, you may want to consider upgrading your trucks suspension if you find that the truck sags in the back while under a load. An air bag kit like the Air Lift # AL88338 will help to keep your ride level, and improve handling while towing.

I have linked a few relevant install videos below. Feel free to reach out with any additional questions.