Fifth Wheel Towing Tips
RVing can be a great way to enjoy all the fun parts of camping outdoors while still having a comfortable place to sleep every night. A fifth wheel, in particular, can be great for a wide variety of campers, but if this is your first time owning one, you might be a little worried about how you’re going to get it to your destination. To help you out, we’ve provided you with some tips for towing your fifth wheel.
Follow Government Weight Restrictions
The first big concern you should be thinking about is how much weight you’ll be towing. A fifth wheel hitch is designed to safely anchor your rig to your towing truck’s bed. However, you can’t use just any type of tow vehicle. This is because whatever you use, it should be able to handle the extra weight.
For this, you’ll want to learn your tow vehicle’s gross combined weight rating (GCWR). This is a number set by the manufacturer that indicates the maximum amount of weight your entire towing unit can be, including the tow vehicle’s weight, the towed vehicle (in this case, a fifth wheel), cargo, and passengers.
You’ll need a vehicle that can easily handle the size and weight of your camper when it’s completely loaded. This is not only because an overloaded unit can create a road hazard, but the GCWR is enforced by the law, and violating your weight limitations can lead to serious fines.
Weight Distribution
When you’re sure you’ve got the right tow vehicle for your fifth wheel, it’s time to load up the gear. Keep in mind that you’ll need to distribute the cargo weight so everything is balanced. Ideally, there should be even weight distribution from side to side, but from front to back you’ll want to employ the 60/40 method. This means that 60% of the total weight is upfront near the hitch and the remaining 40% tapers off the back. This is to prevent poor balance, reduce sway risk, and keep your tires from wearing unevenly.
Relearning the Basics
Driving while towing a fifth wheel is going to feel a little different and require a different set of skills, so find a big, empty parking lot and take some time to relearn how to drive. At the very least, you’ll need to figure out how to turn, brake, reverse, and park.
With a little bit of practice and the right mindset, you should become a pro in no time. The only way to gain confidence is through experience, so even if you spend weeks getting used to this skill, it’ll be worth it.
If you still need a fifth wheel for your camping trips, then stop by Zabukovic RV in Pueblo, CO, and we’ll help you find the perfect model for you and your family. We proudly serve all those coming from the Cheyenne Mountain area, Colorado Springs, and Colorado City.