Top 10 Best Trucks to Pull a 5th Wheel For 2024
Last updated on February 26th, 2024 at 05:37 am
Do you own a 5th wheel and need advice on selecting a suitable tow vehicle? Are you interested in learning which 5th wheel vehicles are the most reliable?
Taking your 5th-wheel out on the open road to see the sights doesn’t have to mean roughing it. All you need a strong vehicle for easy towing of a fifth-wheel trailer.
Knowing the finest vehicle for hauling a 5th wheel trailer is is crucial whether you are considering purchasing one or have just made the investment. However, there are some things to think about before purchasing a fifth-wheel towing vehicle. These include the price, the truck’s weight capacity, turning clearance, the amenities you want, and the truck’s size.
Finding a suitable vehicle for pulling the 5th-wheel trailer is a challenge. But I’ve compiled a list of the finest vehicles for towing a 5th-wheel to make your decision-making process smoother and simpler.
All of the manufacturers of these best trucks to pull a 5th wheel vehicles have solid reputations in the industry.
Let’s dig in and have a look.
10 Best Trucks for Towing a Fifth Wheel
Must Check:
#1. Dodge Ram 3500
You’ve undoubtedly seen a lot of Dodge Rams at various campsites. Ram pickups have a well-deserved reputation for their sturdy construction, plush extras, and reliability. If you need the best trucks to pull a 5th wheel 2022 for pulling a fifth-wheel trailer, the Ram 3500 has everything you could want.
The maximum payload for the top-of-the-line Ram 3500 is an unbelievable 7,680 pounds. As an added bonus, its towing capacity ranges from about 18,000 to 37,000 pounds. It comes with the necessary gear and supports for installing your fifth-wheel hitch on your pickup truck’s bed.
Towing capacity aside, the Ram 3500 can also provide a high level of luxury and comfort. The split-screen functionality of the 12-inch touchscreen makes it almost impossible to miss your turn. Choosing the Ram 3500 will make you feel like you’re traveling in style on your next adventure.
Pros
- High-octane gas and diesel engines.
- Sturdy construction that can be towed with ease.
- The Power Wagon’s off-road package is still a viable option.
Cons
- Seating in the back is cramped.
#2. Nissan Titan
Nissan USA claims that the Nissan Titan offers the most cutting-edge technology, most powerful engine, and the most comprehensive set of standard safety features in best trucks to pull a 5th wheel.
That is to say, it is more advanced, powerful, and safe than rival pickups like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Chevrolet Silverado.
The Nissan Titan’s robust 5.6-liter V8 engine is rated to pull 9,400-pound fifth-wheel trailers with ease. This pickup is suitable for towing small to medium sized fifth-wheel trailers. The Nissan Titan’s 100,000-mile comprehensive warranty is the finest in the business. There is nothing else like it on the market in terms of pickups.
It has a lot of useful extras, too. In comparison to competing pickups, this one comes equipped with additional functions as standard.
Pros
- Exceptional Base Endurance V8 Engine.
- An ideal choice for heavy lifting, the diesel engine.
- Compact Pickup Truck Suitable for a Bigger Family.
- Nissan’s infotainment system, NissanConnect, has been updated and improved.
Cons
- It’s more expensive.
- Inadequate gas mileage.
- Freedom of Movement is a Must for the Big Truck.
#3. Chevy Silverado 3500HD
The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is another top candidate for the title of cheapest truck to pull 5th wheel, thanks to Chevy’s ongoing commitment to developing and improving the Silverado’s performance and capabilities to meet the demands of its growing and discerning customer base.
Both diesel and gas engines are available for the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD. It has a maximum payload of 7,442 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of 36,000. Towing capacity is very configuration dependent.
In the cabin, you may choose between a 4.2- or 8-inch screen in the instrument cluster that offers integrated navigation. On extended trips, you may listen to music or podcasts on the LT’s or higher-end Bose audio system. The standard model comes with a 7-inch display.
Pros
- Solid trailer base.
- Interior Design That Exudes Class.
- Among its many features are a 6.6-liter gas V-8, towing gear, and a variety of camera aids.
Cons
- Retro style in the home’s decor.
- Quite a lack of internal storage space.
- Poor lighting.
#4. Ford F-450 Super Duty
Ford trucks are well-liked by their owners because of the company’s stellar quality-of-life reputation. You can pull a fifth-wheel trailer with any of the available trim levels.
The F-450 Super Duty is the best trucks to pull a 5th wheel and can tow between 21,000 and 24,000 pounds, depending on the exact model. Transporting between 5,400 and 6,300 pounds is possible.
When fully loaded, the F-450 weighs in about 1,050 pounds. You may easily scale steep inclines and mountain passes with the help of your vehicle’s torque rating in foot-pounds. It has a diesel engine that produces 475 horsepower.
Pros
- The top-tier trailer camera setup.
- Unparalleled craftsmanship.
- solid trailer base.
Cons
- Rigid.
- There aren’t any suitable spots for it at car-washing zones.
#5. GMC Sierra 3500HD
The GMC Sierra 3500HD can handle whatever job you put at it. To improve handling and durability, GMC enlarged the driveshaft and rear axle. Because of the enhanced brakes, you may relax as well.
The best trucks to pull a 5th wheel 2022 has a maximum payload capacity of 4,534 pounds, depending on the type. You can tow up to 17,200 pounds with the proper model.
You may choose between a gas and diesel engine in the Sierra 3500HD. Enjoy a smooth ride with the help of responsive suspensions. In fact, GMC provides a dedicated fifth-wheel hitch kit complete with a hitch mount.
Pros
- Diesel engine availability is a plus.
- Superb Construction.
- Ability to Stop Quickly and Safely.
- Controls That Are Simple to Operate.
- Cabin Room to Spare.
Cons
- Only a select few vehicles include a steering wheel that can be extended and retracted.
- Poor visibility due to surrounding obstructions.
- Weak Off-Road Capability.
#6. Ford F-350 Super Duty
The F-350 lives up to Ford’s reputation for producing rugged automobiles. The F-350 lineup includes a vehicle for any need, with options including gas and diesel engines, rear-wheel and front-wheel drive layouts, and dually and single-rear wheel configurations. Ford has strengthened the chassis and added an aluminum-alloy body to make it more bulletproof.
With its 6.7-liter diesel engine, the Ford F-350 can generate up to 475 horsepower. It can carry up to 7,044 pounds of cargo, which is a significant amount.
Pros
- A Variety of Cab Sizes and Layouts Available.
- One may choose a diesel V8 engine if they so like.
- Body made of lightweight aluminum.
- Having the ability to drive off-road.
Cons
- Observational Capabilities Are Restricted.
- Options at a high price of switching away from the status quo.
#7. Toyota Tundra
A camera and radar for collision detection, a variable cruise management system, a lane assist scheme, automatic high lights, and several airbags are just some of the available and optional safety features that make the Toyota Tundra one of the safest vehicles for towing fifth-wheels.
It is estimated that the Toyota Tundra can haul about 10,000 pounds. Its roughly 400 horse power comes from its 5.7-liter V8 engine. This is the cheapest truck to pull 5th wheel weighing less than 10,000 pounds with this vehicle due to its excellent towing capability. Particularly well-suited for off-road travel and touring, the Toyota Tundra Off-Road and Sport variants are excellent trailer pick-up vehicles.
The Tundra Off-Road variant, for instance, is outfitted with large aluminum wheels, Blistein shocks, and a skid plate.
The Toyota Tundra is one of the most roomy and relaxing pickups available. All seats may be adjusted for comfort, there is lots of legroom, and the chairs are comfortable and ergonomically designed.
Pros
- The hybrid’s impressive power and acceleration.
- Back coil spring suspension offers a smooth ride.
- You’ve got a nice huge screen there for all your entertainment needs.
Cons
- Competition pickups are lighter and faster.
- Certainly not the roomiest crew cab out there.
- prohibitive asking price.
#8. Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline’s multi-link independent rear suspension allows it to tow up to 5,000 pounds while still providing a comfortable ride. The Ridgeline isn’t built for lifting huge loads, but it makes up for it with excellent handling and speed.
If you’re not going to be driving over steep terrain or through rough mountain passes, the Honda Ridgeline is a great choice.
When traveling on flat terrain with a fifth wheel attached, you may relax in the knowledge that your vehicle is well-equipped to do the task.
Pros
- Exact Command and Handling.
- Capaciousness.
- High-Quality Finishes Inside.
- We were impressed by the transmission’s smoothness.
- There will be no annoying noises because of the triple insulation.
Cons
- Reduced Overhead Clearance.
- Features of Driver Assistance Systems That Can Be Picky.
#9. GMC Sierra 2500 HD
You can haul up to 3,979 pounds with the GMC Sierra 2500 HD thanks to its upgraded, more robust structure and engine.
When equipped with diesel engines, a conventional cab, and two wheels, the GMC Sierra 2500 HD can tow up to 18,510 pounds with a fifth-wheel trailer. Maximum allowable weight for a gasoline-powered 4×4 crew cab is 16,650 pounds.
The standard cheapest truck to pull 5th wheel, rear-wheel drive gasoline-powered Sierra 2500HD can tow up to 3,979 pounds.
A regular bed is around 6 feet and 9 inches long and can hold up to 69.6 cubic feet of stuff, while a bed that’s eight feet long can hold up to 83.5 cubic feet.
Pros
- Great 10-speed automatic transmission from Allison is available as an option.
- Modify to AT4 specifications.
- Obtainable with a MultiPro tailgate.
Cons
- Interior design that is boring.
- Limiting capacity for storing things.
- The fundamental propulsion system is not very good.
#10. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The Silverado 2500 HD’s towing capability of 18,000 pounds is exceptional. This vehicle, unlike the Ford F-150, is capable of securely towing large fifth-wheels. The Silverado 2500HD is not the cheapest vehicle out there, but it has one of the best towing capacity for the price.
Newer Silverado 2500HDs is among the best trucks to pull a 5th wheel and have more torque and horsepower, making them ideal for towing large campers over long distances. For this reason, it is one of the finest trucks to use if you live in Texas or South Dakota and need to transport a large vehicle to Key West, Florida. Also, this truck has features that make it more stable at high speeds and over steep terrain.
Despite the Silverado’s great reputation, the 2018 model is even more so. It can haul up to 18,500 pounds behind it and comes equipped with a slew of trailer-friendly features including tow mode, stability control, tow assist, and strong brakes.
Pros
- Reliable foundation.
- The current state of towing cameras and equipment.
- Rapid acceleration.
Cons
- Materials in the cabin are of a poor grade.
- Minimum allowable torque rating.
- Exterior design that divides opinion.
FAQs
Which pickup is ideal for towing a 5th wheel trailer?
You’ll need a vehicle first. Even while a half-ton vehicle like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, or Chevy Silverado 1500 can tow a fifth-wheel trailer, most individuals who buy a trailer substantial enough to need a bed-mounted hitch will need at least a three-quarter-ton truck like the Ram 2500, Ford F-250, or Chevrolet Silverado HD.
Tow a fifth-wheel trailer, what length of vehicle bed do you need?
An 8-foot bed, often called a “long bed,” is recommended for pulling a fifth-wheel trailer. Fifth-wheel hookups need the camper to be positioned near to the cab in order to stay in front of the back axle.
Is a diesel vehicle required to pull a fifth wheel?
Diesel engines are not required to pull a 5th wheel trailer; gas engines may do the job just fine.
If you had to choose between a gooseneck and a 5th wheel hitch, which would you choose and why?
Connecting safety chains and trailer wiring is standard procedure for every trailer design. The benefits of a gooseneck hitch are increased towing capacity, reduced size, and ease of use. Gooseneck hitches have a higher weight capacity, allowing them to tow over 30,000 pounds. This is almost 3,000 pounds more than the strongest fifth wheel hitch.
How can I test the towing capacity of my vehicle for a fifth wheel?
By calculating your actual cargo capacity by 4 for the low end (25% on the pin) and 5 for the high end (20% on the pin), you can easily determine the range of the biggest fifth-wheel. Using 3255 as an example, we get a range of 13020 to 16275 pounds. The maximum width for a fifth wheel is that.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right truck to pull a 5th wheel is crucial for a smooth and safe towing experience. With the top 10 options outlined here for 2024, drivers can confidently choose a vehicle that meets their towing needs, ensuring both power and efficiency on the road ahead.
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