Imagine the open road calling your name, the promise of adventure just a hitch away. But before you can chase sunsets in your fifth wheel RV, there’s a crucial step: choosing the right truck. It’s not as simple as grabbing any pickup. The wrong truck can lead to white-knuckle drives, overloaded axles, and a whole lot of stress.
Many folks get overwhelmed by all the specs and numbers. They worry about towing capacity, payload, and whether their truck can handle the weight of their dream home on wheels. It’s a big investment, and you want to get it right the first time. This guide is here to help you conquer that confusion and find the perfect partner for your fifth wheel adventures.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key features to look for, what questions to ask, and how to match your truck to your specific fifth wheel. We’ll break down the jargon and give you the confidence to make a smart choice. So, let’s dive in and get you ready to tow with ease and enjoy every mile.
Our Top 5 Truck For Fifth Wheel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Truck For Fifth Wheel Detailed Reviews
1. B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500
Rating: 8.8/10
The B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500 is built tough for your RV adventures. It makes hooking up and towing your fifth wheel trailer a breeze. This hitch is designed to handle heavy loads and keep your ride smooth.
What We Like:
- The head moves easily in all directions. This helps your trailer follow your truck smoothly.
- The handle is easy to use. You can unlatch it even if your truck and trailer aren’t perfectly level.
- It has special cushions. These stop the hitch from shaking and making noise while you tow.
- It can tow a lot! It’s rated for 20,000 pounds of trailer weight and 5,000 pounds of tongue weight.
- It’s made right here in America. Plus, it comes with a warranty that lasts forever.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the polyurethane bushings are great for quiet towing, they might wear out over a very long time and need eventual replacement.
- The sturdy build, while a pro, means it’s not the lightest hitch on the market, so installation might require a bit more effort for some.
This hitch offers a fantastic combination of strength, ease of use, and quiet operation. You can tow with confidence knowing it’s built to last.
2. CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch
Rating: 9.3/10
Towing your large trailer just got a whole lot smoother and safer with the CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch. This hitch is built tough to handle serious hauling jobs, giving you confidence on the road.
What We Like:
- The dual-pivot head moves 10 degrees sideways. This helps make your ride much smoother and more stable, especially on bumpy roads.
- The auto-lock feature makes hooking up your trailer a breeze. It locks automatically, so you know it’s secure every time.
- An anti-rattle skid plate is included. This stops that annoying shaking and rattling that can happen at the connection point.
- It’s tested for safety according to strict standards. You can trust it to tow up to 16,000 lbs of trailer weight.
- It fits easily onto most standard 5th wheel base rails. You can use it with common rail systems.
What Could Be Improved:
- Base rails and mounting brackets are sold separately. You’ll need to buy these parts in addition to the hitch.
This CURT 5th wheel hitch offers a great balance of convenience and safety for your towing needs. It’s a solid choice for anyone who needs to tow heavy loads reliably.
3. Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel
Rating: 8.6/10
Towing your RV just got a whole lot smoother with the Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel hitch. This heavy-duty hitch is built to handle serious loads, giving you peace of mind on every journey. Its smart design makes hooking up and towing easier, even when the ground isn’t perfectly level.
What We Like:
- It can tow up to 16,000 lbs, with a pin weight capacity of 4,000 lbs.
- The 6-inch side-to-side pivot helps you connect your trailer even on bumpy or uneven surfaces.
- You can adjust the hitch height from 14 1/2 inches to 18 inches.
- It offers both fore-and-aft and side-to-side tilting for better maneuverability.
- The two-jaw locking system with its easy handle securely grips the king pin.
- Wide, one-piece legs provide extra stability for a safer tow.
- The hitch is built tough and has been tested for durability.
- You can easily remove it when you need full access to your truck bed.
- The patented jaw locking mechanism fully surrounds the king pin for reliable towing.
- It comes with a five-year limited warranty for your protection.
What Could Be Improved:
- The rail kit is sold separately, so you’ll need to buy that too.
- The item might arrive in multiple boxes on different days.
Overall, the Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel is a strong and reliable choice for anyone needing a robust towing solution. Its user-friendly features and durable construction make it a valuable addition to your RVing setup.
4. B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with Ford OEM Puck System – RVK3305
Rating: 9.3/10
When you’re ready to tow your large RV, you need a hitch you can trust. The B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch is built for serious towing. It fits perfectly with Ford’s OEM puck system, making installation a breeze. This hitch is designed to handle big jobs with its impressive 25,000 lb Gross Trailer Weight and 6,250 lb Vertical Tongue Weight. Plus, it’s made right here in America and comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, so you know it’s built to last.
What We Like:
- It connects directly to your Ford’s factory hitch setup.
- The hitch head moves in all directions for a smoother ride.
- The handle is easy to use, even on bumpy ground.
- It can tow very heavy trailers.
- It’s made in the USA and has a great warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a heavy piece of equipment.
- It’s designed specifically for Ford trucks, so it won’t fit other brands without adapters.
Overall, the B&W 25K Companion hitch offers robust towing power and user-friendly features. It’s a solid choice for Ford truck owners who demand reliability for their RV adventures.
5. JY Performance Fifth 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails and Installation Kits for Full-Size Trucks
Rating: 9.0/10
The JY Performance Fifth 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails and Installation Kits offer a robust solution for securely attaching your fifth-wheel trailer hitch to most full-size trucks. This universal kit includes everything you need to get started, making installation straightforward for DIYers and professional mechanics alike.
What We Like:
- Universal Fit: The brackets work with many different trucks and are compatible with popular hitch brands like Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley, and Husky.
- Durable Construction: A tough black powder coat protects the rails and brackets from rust and damage from weather, dirt, and everyday wear.
- Complete Kit: You get all the rails, brackets, and hardware needed for installation, as shown in the product pictures.
- Easy Attachment: The base rails provide the necessary spots to connect your fifth-wheel hitch, and there are multiple holes to fit different frame sizes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Reese Elite/Signature: This kit will not work with Reese Elite Series or Signature Series hitches.
This JY Performance kit provides a solid and dependable way to mount your fifth-wheel hitch. It’s a great option for truck owners who need a reliable setup for towing.
Choosing the Right Truck for Your Fifth Wheel
Getting a fifth wheel camper is exciting! It opens up a world of travel and adventure. But you need the right truck to pull it safely and comfortably. This guide helps you pick the perfect truck for your fifth wheel.
Key Features to Look For
Several features make a truck a great fifth wheel hauler.
- Towing Capacity: This is the most important thing. Your truck must be able to handle the weight of your loaded fifth wheel. Always check the truck’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and the fifth wheel’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- Payload Capacity: This is how much weight the truck can carry, including passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of the trailer. Fifth wheels have heavy tongue weights.
- Fifth Wheel Hitch Prep: Many trucks come with a special setup in the truck bed for a fifth wheel hitch. This makes installation easier and stronger.
- Engine Power: A powerful engine, especially a diesel, gives you the muscle needed for hills and long distances.
- Towing Mirrors: These extend your view and help you see around your large trailer.
- Trailer Brake Controller: This device helps your trailer brakes work with your truck’s brakes.
Important Materials
The materials used in a truck’s construction matter for strength and durability.
- Frame: A strong, rigid frame is essential. Look for high-strength steel frames that can handle heavy loads.
- Suspension: Heavy-duty suspension systems help support the trailer’s weight and provide a smoother ride.
- Axles and Drivetrain: Robust axles and a reliable drivetrain (like four-wheel drive for stability) are crucial.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a truck better for fifth wheels, while others can make it less ideal.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Longer Wheelbase: A longer wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheels) offers more stability when towing.
- Heavy-Duty Towing Packages: These often include upgraded cooling systems, stronger axles, and better brakes.
- Diesel Engines: They offer more torque, which is the twisting force needed to pull heavy loads.
- Integrated Fifth Wheel Hitches: Some trucks have hitches built right into the bed.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Underpowered Engines: A small engine will struggle and overheat.
- Short Wheelbases: These can make towing feel less stable.
- Light-Duty Suspension: It won’t handle the weight well.
- Lack of Towing Features: Missing features like a brake controller or proper hitch setup.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your fifth wheel impacts your truck choice.
- Weekend Warrior: If you only go camping a few times a year, you might not need the absolute biggest truck. A capable half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck could work.
- Full-Timer or Snowbird: If you live in your fifth wheel or travel for months, you need a truck built for the long haul. Heavy-duty trucks (three-quarter-ton and one-ton) are usually best.
- Terrain: Do you tow in mountains? Do you drive on rough roads? These factors mean you need more power and a stronger suspension.
- Comfort: Modern trucks offer comfortable cabs with advanced technology. Consider how important ride quality and features are to you for long drives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important thing to check when buying a truck for a fifth wheel?
A: The most important thing is the truck’s towing capacity and payload capacity. Make sure it can safely handle the weight of your loaded fifth wheel.
Q: Do I need a diesel engine for my fifth wheel?
A: Not always. Many gasoline engines can tow fifth wheels. However, diesel engines offer more torque and are often more fuel-efficient when towing heavy loads, making them a popular choice.
Q: What’s the difference between a three-quarter-ton and a one-ton truck for fifth wheels?
A: One-ton trucks (like Ford F-350, Ram 3500, Chevy Silverado 3500) generally have higher towing and payload capacities than three-quarter-ton trucks (like Ford F-250, Ram 2500, Chevy Silverado 2500). If you have a larger or heavier fifth wheel, a one-ton is often recommended.
Q: Can a half-ton truck pull a fifth wheel?
A: Some smaller, lighter fifth wheels can be towed by certain heavy-duty half-ton trucks. However, most fifth wheels are too heavy for a standard half-ton truck. Always check the specific fifth wheel’s weight and the truck’s ratings.
Q: What is a fifth wheel hitch, and do I need one?
A: A fifth wheel hitch is a special coupling that mounts inside the truck bed. It connects to a kingpin on the fifth wheel trailer. Yes, you absolutely need one to tow a fifth wheel.
Q: How does payload capacity affect towing a fifth wheel?
A: The tongue weight of your fifth wheel counts towards your truck’s payload capacity. You need enough payload capacity to handle this tongue weight plus the weight of passengers and any other cargo in the truck.
Q: Should I look for a truck with four-wheel drive (4WD) or two-wheel drive (2WD) for fifth wheel towing?
A: 4WD can be helpful for traction when starting on slippery surfaces or for navigating rougher campsites. However, 2WD is often sufficient for most highway towing. Consider where you plan to camp.
Q: How do I find out the weight of my fifth wheel?
A: The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is usually listed on a sticker inside the trailer. You can also weigh your loaded fifth wheel at a truck stop or a certified scale to get its actual weight.
Q: What is GCWR?
A: GCWR stands for Gross Combined Weight Rating. It is the maximum allowed weight of your fully loaded truck and your fully loaded fifth wheel combined. Your actual combined weight must be less than the GCWR.
Q: Are there any special features that make towing easier?
A: Yes, features like integrated trailer brake controllers, backup cameras with trailer views, and tow/haul modes on the transmission can make towing much easier and safer.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.