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Last Updated on April 2, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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What Are The Best Trucks For Towing 5th Wheels?
When towing a 5th wheel, the truck you choose is paramount. The right truck for this task should have a robust towing capacity, solid horsepower, and torque.
- A powerful engine and strong chassis are crucial.
- We have specialized fifth-wheel hitch for large trailers.
- Adequate towing capacity to handle trailer weight.
- Consideration of bed length for hitch accommodation.
- Diesel engines for higher torque delivery are recommended.
- Advanced towing technologies enhance safety and ease.
Finding the right truck for towing is essential. It must be strong enough to pull your trailer and carry everything you need, including your family.
When shopping for a truck, you should look for a comfortable, substantial truck of suitable size.
Here are some essential things to think about when truck shopping:
- Size of your fifth wheel
- Truck size
- Towing capacity
- Payload
- Length of the bed
- Engine’s power
- Turning clearance
This article will discuss the best trucks to tell your 5th wheeler and how to shop for them.
We will also cover all the essential aspects of the vehicle listed that you should consider when shopping.
Most of all, we’ll ensure you find a suitable model!
13 Best Trucks for Towing 5th Wheels
1. Ford F-350 Super Duty
The F-350 has a towing capacity of 27,500 pounds and is considered a workhorse of the heavy-duty range. It includes a 1,050 lb-ft Power Stroke diesel engine.
One of the truck’s Fantastic features is its trailer reverse guidance system, which allows the driver to check and view their fifth wheel from numerous angles.
This is helpful for driving but also promises excellent clearance and makes navigating your large trailer easier.
With the enormous payload capacity, you can comfortably load your fifth wheel. In addition, comfort, safety, and convenience are also guaranteed.
Pros
- Expansive Cab Configurations
- The Diesel V8 Engine Option
- Light-weight Aluminum Body
- Off-roading Capabilities
- User-friendly Sync 3 Infotainment System
Cons
- Limited Visibility
- Expensive alternatives/ options
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk
2. Honda Ridgeline
Owing to its multi-link independent rear suspension, the Honda Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds, combining the luxury of a smooth ride with excellent towing capacity.
The Ridgeline is not a heavy lifter but provides a superior driving performance.
The Honda Ridgeline is ideal for driving along smooth highways instead of hilly areas or bumpy mountain ranges.
The suspension and construction offer a pleasant riding experience while towing a 5th wheel on smooth trails.
Pros
- Precision Steering and Control
- Capaciousness
- Superior quality Interior Materials
- Smooth Transmission
- Triple insulation ensures no noise
Cons
- Low Road Clearance
- Finicky Driver Assist Features
3. Ford F-450 Super Duty
With the ever-evolving truck industry, every company is developing powerful torque and features that will allow them to rule.
Ford holds the crown with its updated and modernized F-450 Super Duty.
The F-450 produces 475 horsepower and 1050 pound-feet of torque from a 6.7-liter Power Stroke Diesel V-8.
This one-ton truck comes with a tremendous towing capacity of 37,000 pounds. You can easily pull your fifth wheel without worrying about the payload.
The interior is comfortable, and the ride is also smooth and quiet.
Pros
- The ultimate towing camera system
- Superior quality construction
- Robust towing platform
Cons
- Rigid
- It doesn’t fit car washing designated areas
4. GMC Sierra 2500 HD
The GMC Sierra 2500 HD is an improved version with an even better, sturdy frame and powertrain to pull up to 3,979 pounds of payload.
GMC Sierra 2500 HD has a maximum fifth-wheel towing capacity of 18,510 pounds with diesel engines in a regular cab and a two-wheel-drive configuration. As for a gasoline-powered 4X4 crew cab, you can tow up to 16,650 pounds.
Sierra 2500HD can handle a payload of up to 3,979 pounds as a gasoline-powered, regular cab rear-drive model.
There are also a few bed-length options available:
A standard bed’s length measures around six feet and nine inches with a capacity of 69.6 cubic feet, whereas an eight-foot-long bed has a potential of 83.5 cubic feet.
Pros
- Excellent optional Allison 10-speed automatic
- AT4 trim
- MultiPro tailgate available
Cons
- Dull interior styling
- Small storage options
- Not an excellent base powertrain combo
5. Ford F-250 Super Duty
Although it is not as powerful as the Ford F-350, the Ford F-250 can pull heavy campers easily. The model has an impressive towing capacity of 20,000 pounds.
Because the heaviest fifth wheels weigh around 12,000 pounds, the maximum towing capacity of the Ford F-250 means you can use it to pull even the heaviest fifth wheels.
This truck comes with both comfort and high-tech features.
The comfort features include:
- Impressive leg spaces for tall people
- Great seats
- Powerful AC
- An optional heater
The high-tech features include:
- A productivity screen.
- A reverse sensing system.
- A rearview camera.
- A distance to empty measure.
- Adaptive steering.
Adaptive steering is a brilliant feature because it gradually adjusts the steering ratio based on speed for better control and safety.
This makes this truck perfect for hauling heavy trailers.
6. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 Raptor is the third Ford truck on this list and one of the most popular half-ton trucks in the United States.
While the F-150 generally does not have an impressive towing capacity like the F-250 and the F-350, it can tow fifth wheels less than 8,000 pounds in weight. This means it is only suitable for towing lightweight fifth-wheels such as Forest River fifth-wheels.
The best thing about the FORD F-150 Raptor is its powerful engine.
It has an intelligent suspension system and other systems to effortlessly handle difficult terrain and off-road conditions. Therefore, if you want to take a lightweight fifth-wheel camper to an off-road location, it is an option you should strongly consider.
The second best thing about this truck is its safety features, including a blind spot information system, a lane-keeping information system, and a safe backing system.
In short, this F-150 is a great truck for hauling fifth wheels.
Pros
- Numerous options are available for configurations and prices
- Heavy-duty drivetrain offerings
- Superb off-road capability
- Excellent utility
Cons
- Occasional difference between real-world fuel mileage and EPA rating
- Expensive
7. Ram 3500
Ram has built quite a reputation for towing fifth wheel and gooseneck hitches.
With its turbo diesel engine, the Ram 3500 is mighty and has a massive towing capacity of 30,000 pounds with comfort and luxury.
Moreover, you can equip your truck with a 6-7 liter Cummins diesel inline-six. This gives you 400 horsepower and 1000 lb-ft of torque.
As a result, this heavy-duty truck with dual rear wheels can tow a big fifth wheel weighing 35,100 pounds.
The Ram 3500 includes various features, such as a high-resolution in-bed camera and the air suspension’s trick Alt Trailer Height ability. Additionally, the truck comes with a factory-installed hitch.
Some of the shortcomings include the top-dog diesel being an option that costs $11,795 over the base gas V-8.
It forces you to buy a high-torque version of the older six-speed automatic transmission instead of the new eight-speed one.
Pros
- Powerful gasoline and diesel engines
- Stiff, towing-friendly assembly
- Power Wagon off-road trim still available
Cons
- Less spacious rear seat
8. Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The Silverado 2500 HD has an awe-inspiring towing capacity of 18,000 pounds. Unlike the Ford F-150 above, this truck can safely haul heavyweight fifth wheels.
The Silverado 2500HD is not extremely cheap, but it is certainly less expensive than other trucks with impressive towing capacities.
Compared to previous Silverado 2500HD models, the model has better torque and power, perfect for pulling heavy campers for long distances. Therefore, it is one of the best trucks if you are in Texas or South Dakota and want to pull a big rig to Key West (Florida).
This truck is also equipped with systems that enable it to handle high speeds and steep roads better.
While the Silverado is impressive, this year’s model is impressive. It has a maximum towing capacity of 18,500 pounds and many features that make it more capable of towing heavy trailers, including steering assist, powerful braking, tow mode, and a stability control system.
It also has a luxurious interior and plenty of high-tech features.
Pros
- Firm platform
- Available towing cameras and technology
- Swift speeding
Cons
- Low-quality cabin materials
- Lowest maximum torque rating
- Polarizing exterior styling
9. Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
The Chevrolet Silverado is one of the most impressive towing trucks.
It comes with a 6.6-liter V8 engine capable of hauling 20,000-pound trailers. The gooseneck method can haul trailers as heavy as 35,000 in weight, making it one of the most potent towing trucks.
I like the Silverado 3500HD because its engine feels very strong regardless of the terrain, the speed, or the weight of the trailer or camper being towed. I also like that it comes with a 15-way camera that makes towing and parking easy!
If you are a tall man or have tall people in your family, you will love this truck because it has spacious leg rooms for front and rear passengers.
This is one of the safest trucks out there. It has all the safety features you would expect from a heavy-duty truck, including:
- Rear and front parking sensors
- A collision-avoidance system
- A blind-spot monitoring system
- A lane-change alert system
- A cross-traffic alert system
- A rearview camera
- A teen driver system
- A hitch guidance system
- It also has six airbags for maximum protection, especially for front passengers.
Additional safety features include traction control, stability control, and auto-locking differential.
The most impressive thing about it is its infotainment suite. The Crew and Double cabs have six surround speakers that are controllable on a touchscreen interface.
It is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The premium High-Country version has Bose speakers for perfect-quality sound.
In summary, this truck can safely and efficiently pull big rigs, and it is perfect because it is safe and has a good infotainment suite.
Pros
- Robust towing platform
- Classy Interior
- Standard 6.6-liter gas V-8
- towing technologies and assist camera options are available
Cons
- Old-fashioned interior design
- Restricted interior storage options
- Low visibility
10. Nissan Titan
According to Nissan USA, the Nissan Titan has its class’s most standard safety features, tech, and power.
In other words, it is safer, more powerful, and high-tech than competing trucks such as the Ford F-150, the Ram 1500, the Tundra, and the Silverado.
The Nissan Titan has a powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine capable of towing 5th wheels as heavy as 9,400 pounds. This truck can pull lightweight and mid-size fifth-wheel campers.
The Nissan Titan has the best standard warranty, a 100,000-mile full warranty. Not any other truck offers anything close to this.
Also, it is feature-rich. This truck has more standard features than most trucks on the market.
Its features include:
- Back up camera
- Parking sensors
- Alertness sensors
- Cross-traffic alert
- Emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Driver assistance features
The Nissan Titan also has a large 8-inch control screen with impressive graphics, which is perfect for controlling this vehicle.
It has an excellent off-road capability. The Titan Pro-4X is the best one for off-road driving. So, if you want to go somewhere off-grid, this truck is an option you cannot ignore.
Lastly, the Nissan Titan has excellent packages and upgrades, including keyless entry, remote start, and climate control.
Pros
- Base Endurance V8 Engine
- Diesel Engine Ideal for Hefty Lifting
- Family-Sized Pickup Truck
- Improved NissanConnect Infotainment System
Cons
- More Expensive
- Unimpressive Fuel Economy
- The big truck requires Space to Roam
11. GMC Sierra 3500HD
One of the best towing trucks to make my list is the GMC Sierra 3500 HD. It is a full-size, one-ton pickup truck with a maximum conventional towing capacity of 20,000 pounds.
As for the fifth wheel, the tow rating is 23,100 pounds.
The GMC Sierra 3500 HD has a trailering camera system as a dealer-installed accessory. It includes left—and right-hand side-view mirror cameras and a trailer-mounted camera.
This ensures a complete view and clearance of your towing vehicle and the fifth-wheel trailer.
The GMC Sierra 3500HD supports a 6.0-liter V8 gas engine with 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque.
You can get a Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel, producing 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque.
The GMC 3500 HD promises comfort, luxury, class, and quiet drive with a Snow Plow Prep Package that includes heavy-duty front springs, a 220-amp alternator, and underbody shields.
Pros
- Diesel Engine Option available
- High-grade Build
- Strong Braking Proficiency
- Easy-to-Use Controls
- Ample Cabin Space
Cons
- The Telescoping Steering Wheel’s Limited Availability
- Limited Visibility
- Limited Off-roading Capabilities
12. Toyota Tundra
Among the best trucks for towing fifth-wheels, the Toyota Tundra is one of the safest, with an impressive list of standard and extra features, including a camera and a radar for collision detection, a dynamic cruise control system, a lane assist system, automatic high beams, and multiple airbags.
The Toyota Tundra’s towing capacity is approximately 10,000 pounds, thanks to its 5.7-liter V8 engine, which provides nearly 400 horsepower.
This truck has a high towing capacity, making it great for pulling fifth wheels under 10,000 pounds.
The Toyota Tundra Off-Road and Sport models are particularly significant for towing because they have been fitted with features that make them perfect for visiting/touring off-road destinations.
For example, the Tundra Off-Road model has big aluminum tires, Bilstein shocks, and a skid plate.
The Toyota Tundra is among the most spacious and comfortable trucks in terms of comfort. There is plenty of legroom for all passengers, the seats are comfy and ergonomic, and you can adjust all the seats for comfort.
This is one of the most high-tech trucks in terms of technology. It has several technologies you will not find on other trucks, including Destination Assist, which gives truck owners access to live agents for free assistance.
This truck is built to perform well and last long, even under pressure.
13. Jeep Gladiator
If you are looking for a convertible truck that is a serious off-road vehicle, you should get the Jeep Gladiator. It is a beautiful truck and the only convertible truck on the market.
The best thing about this truck is that the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon has a towing capacity of 7,000 pounds.
You can easily use it to tow a lightweight fifth-wheel camper or even an under 6,500-pound camper.
Its soft top and doors are removable for open-air cruising or driving; it can handle all types of rugged terrain.
If you get the Rubicon model, you will use it to tow your camper and enjoy exploring unbeaten off-road paths, roads, and 4X4 obstacle trails and courses.
You can do this confidently because it is a rugged truck made of high-strength steel, which is not easily damaged or totaled.
Moreover, the standard features of the Jeep Gladiator are high off the ground. For instance, the Rubicon version is 11 inches off the ground. You can easily drive this Jeep over streams and puddles without worrying about the water getting in.
Because the Jeep Gladiator is built to conquer rough terrain, it has an intelligent suspension system. The system allows for comfortable driving and sitting on even or uneven terrain.
This truck is ideal for young people because its infotainment suite is crazy good. It has a waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker, a rainproof electric outlet, a UConnect system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a USB port, and a five-inch touchscreen for control.
Buyers Guide
Now that we’ve shortlisted the 13 best ones, it’s time to help you choose the perfect towing truck for your 5th wheel.
With my brief guide on what specs to look for while investing in a tow truck, you can effortlessly figure out the basics you must know:
1. Bed Length
Bed lengths matter a lot when it comes to the fifth-wheel towing trucks. There are generally three length options available.
Long Beds – 8 ft.
Long beds provide the best turning clearance and are the most convenient option for towing fifth wheels. An eight-foot bed offers the best traction with significantly reduced sway.
The driver feels more confident and in control. Moreover, it is the most cost-effective setup.
The truck’s size is comparatively larger for a daily driver with an eight-foot bed.
Medium Beds – 6 ft.
Trucks with medium-sized beds are very easy to maneuver and hassle-free to park. Often, they have a large crew cab, which provides more space. This size is also ideal for a daily driver.
However, this bed’s size has a few disadvantages. It has comparatively less turning clearance, making it less convenient for towing.
The grip is relatively less, while the setup isn’t very economical.
Shorter Bed – 4 ft.
Trucks with shorter bed lengths are lightweight and easy to move around without towing.
The crew cab usually has ample seating and storage space, ideal for a daily driver.
However, when towing a 5th wheel, trucks with a four-foot bed length provide the most minor turning clearance, making them the least convenient option.
Similarly, traction is the least, and the setup is costly.
2. Hitches
The selection of hitches is crucial. It usually depends upon the bed length you choose. You may select a fixed hitch and a sliding hitch for short beds with a long bed.
Let’s briefly discuss the hitches suitable for bed lengths below.
3. Fixed Hitch
When choosing a long-bed truck, you can choose a fixed hitch to tow your fifth wheel. This is the most affordable, convenient, and long-term option.
Once you have installed the fixed hitch, you don’t have to worry about adjusting the hitch for turns or cab clearance.
4. Sliding Hitch
Fixed hitches may not be practical for medium or short beds. That’s where sliding hitches come in handy.
Sliding hitches are designed specifically for medium to short beds under eight feet. They provide better turning clearance by sliding back towards the truck’s tailgate during sharp turns.
It increases the distance between the truck and the cab, thus eluding any collision.
Sliding hitches come in two types.
5. Manual Sliding Hitches
As the name suggests, you must adjust the hitch’s position from locked to manually turning.
Every time you need to take a sharp turn, you must pull over, exit your vehicle, and make the change.
6. Automatic Sliding Hitches
These sliding hitches self-adjust themselves according to your movement. You don’t need to readjust the hitch manually.
Every time you take a sharp turn, it automatically moves backward toward the truck’s tailgate and returns to its original position smoothly when you start moving straight.
Gas Vs. Diesel
Almost everyone knows that gasoline is an affordable option.
The gas engine is going to cost less. The fuel is less expensive, and even the maintenance cost is lesser than the diesel engine.
However, the diesel engine provides better fuel economy and saves money in the long run. The fuel consumption is mostly better with diesel engines.
Diesel engines generally provide higher towing capacity with large torque outputs, which makes them ideal for pulling gigantic fifth wheels. They also usually have a longer life.
Suppose you can afford to invest a comparatively more substantial amount initially. In that case, I recommend you invest in a diesel engine, provided you plan to tow 5th-wheelers over long distances for extended periods.
Some gas engines can also haul fifth-wheel trailers, so consider diesel a recommendation, not an obligation.
Payload Capacity
Trucks come in various weight categories, such as one ton, ½ ton, or ¾ ton, but it’s unclear which one would suit you.
For lighter trailers, you can go with ½-ton tow trucks such as Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ram 1500, and more.
When looking for a large trailer, you should choose a ¾-ton vehicle, if not a one-ton truck. Some ¾-ton towing trucks are Ford F-250, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Ram 2500, etc.
As for big fifth wheels, one-ton trucks are a perfect choice. Ford F-350, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, Ram 3500, and more.
Heavy-duty towing vehicles are popular in the market for a reason. You’ll experience less strain on your truck’s suspension and drivetrain components with heavy-duty vehicles.
Towing a smaller fifth wheel with ½ ton truck is not impossible as long as the truck is rated at sufficient weight capacity for your trailer.
How do I find out the weight I can tow?
The best way to determine which truck will meet your towing requirements is to check the driver’s seat sticker.
It would help you determine the vehicle’s weight specifications and towing capabilities:
- Check for the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) on the sticker. It is the maximum collective weight of the loaded truck and the fully loaded trailer.
- When your vehicle is loaded and ready for towing, subtract its Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) from the mutual weight of your truck, fuel, passengers, and cargo.
- The GCWR and the GVW difference is the maximum loaded trailer weight the truck can tow.
You can use the CVWR mentioned on your vehicle’s sticker to make a conservative estimate of how heavy a trailer you can tow.
If you want to determine the most precise measurement of your vehicle’s weight, I recommend you load up your truck with all the stuff and passengers you plan to take while towing and visiting a commercial scale.
Single Rear Wheel or Double Rear Wheel?
It entirely depends upon your choice and preference when deciding between a single or dual rear wheel.
The single rear wheel offers better fuel efficiency and visibility than dual rear-wheel trucks. Moreover, replacing six tires is more expensive than replacing four if necessary.
Single rear-wheel trucks are ideal for routine use. Driving with a dual wheel is uncomfortable when not towing your fifth wheel. Navigating through a tight parking area or a drive-through with a single rear-wheel truck is more accessible than a dual-rear-wheel truck.
Dual rear-wheel trucks have advantages. They offer excellent stability while towing a larger trailer, fifth wheel, or toy hauler.
The weight or payload capacity of the truck increases with these new tires. In case of an unfortunate blowout of a rear tire, you already have a backup, as you may not need an extra pair all the time.
They are ideal if you plan on towing frequently and regularly.
Summary
Several factors are critical when considering an ideal truck for towing a fifth wheel. A powerful engine and a sturdy chassis are indispensable. These two components play a significant role in ensuring the truck can comfortably haul large trailers.
A specialized fifth-wheel hitch is also essential for large trailers. This feature provides the necessary connection between the truck and the trailer, ensuring secure and safe towing.
Moreover, the truck should have an adequate towing capacity to handle the trailer’s weight. This is crucial in preventing potential issues such as engine strain or brake failure that could arise from towing a too heavy trailer.
The truck’s bed length is another consideration, as it must accommodate the hitch. A longer bed length is usually preferable as it provides ample space for the hitch and ensures a smoother towing process.
Opting for trucks with diesel engines is highly recommended when towing a 5th wheel. Diesel engines are known for their higher torque delivery, essential when hauling heavy loads. Advanced towing technologies are another feature that cannot be overlooked.
These technologies, such as stability control and trailer sway control, enhance safety and ease during towing by reducing risks and making the process more manageable.
In conclusion, selecting the right truck for towing a 5th wheel requires careful consideration of various factors such as engine power, chassis strength, hitch type, towing capacity, bed length, and advanced towing technologies.
With these features, one can expect efficient, safe, and comfortable towing experiences.
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