GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST TRUCK FOR 5TH-WHEEL TOWING
You ' ll need to make sure that your loaded fifth wheel doesn ' t exceed any of your truck ' s weight ratings .
It logically follows that a larger truck will offer a larger tow capacity and payload . In most cases you ' ll want to go with at least a ¾-ton truck like the Ford F-250 , Chevrolet Silverado 2500 , or Ram 2500 , or — even better — a 1-ton truck . These are heavy-duty trucks like the Ford F-350 , Chevrolet Silverado 3500 , and Ram 3500 . If you tow with a smaller truck , or if you tow a trailer close to your truck ' s maximum weight capacity , you may need suspension enhancements to help stabilize and level your vehicle .
With these larger vehicles , there will be less strain on the suspension and drivetrain components than with a smaller truck . That said , towing a small fifth wheel with a ½-ton truck like the Ford F-150 , Chevrolet Silverado 1500 , or Ram 1500 ( to name a few ) is not impossible as long as the truck is rated sufficiently for your trailer . Check out our sizing chart to get an idea of which truck type you might need to pull your fifth wheel .
Figures are based on average 5th wheel ratings and truck capacities ; always check weight rating information on any trailer and truck prior to towing .
Our Recommendation : Always stay within all weight ratings and specifications required by your vehicle . If you ' re going to be towing a large fifth wheel trailer , or if you know you ' ll be looking at a fifth-wheel upgrade down the road , a 1-ton truck will allow this and will hold up the best under a sizeable trailer . However , if you plan on sticking with a smaller fifth wheel , a ¾-ton or even a ½-ton truck is likely all you need , provided its weight ratings are sufficient .
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