Picked up new 5th wheel today... here are weights

[klenger]

No trailer: All weights are no driver, full tank of fuel, no cargo, with empty tool box (75 lbs), nerf bars, and Linex bed liner.



Front axle: 4,060 (Spec) 3,960

Rear axle: 2,700 (Spec) 2,500

Gross weight: 6,760 (Spec) 6,460 (Diff) 300 lbs



With Arctic Fox 27' 5th wheel, as delivered from factory plus 80 lbs propane, 2 batteries, no water, and hitch. Note: Trailer specs call for 225-75R15 tires, but is now delivered with 235-85R16, and beefier axle, brakes, etc. I estimate that these items account for 400-500 lbs of the difference shown below.



Front axle: 4,020

Rear axle: 4,460

Truck gross Wt: 8,480 (GVWR) 8,800

Gross Comb Wt: 15,920 (GCWR) 20,000

Trailer axle: 7,440 (Spec) 6,760

Pin weight: 1,720 (Spec) 1,260

Trailer gross: 9,160 (Spec) 8,020 (Diff) 1,140



It appears that the installer located the 5th wheel hitch about 2" behind the rear axle instead of in front of or centered on it. This reduced the front end weight by only 40 lbs as compared to unloaded. should I be concerned about this? It seems to handle fine, and I like the extra cab-5er clearance (short box). I don't like the idea of more holes in the truck to move it. Let the flaming begin.

 

[Dieselnerd]

Ken, no flames but the pin location 2 inches behind the axle does tend to make your trailer sway when being passed by 18 wheelers or in strong crosswinds. Ideal is over the axle or slightly ahead. That being said, there are so many other variables that you may have no problems at all. My Dodge is right over the axle and it tows better than my previous GM that had the pin ahead of the axle. Have fun!

 

[SLVRBLT]

Ken-



I'm pulling a 30' with about the same wt. and pin wt. My hitch is also about 2" behind the axle centerline and I haven't experienced any problems with sway, etc. My 5er has an extended pin on it which gives me all kinds of room between the truck and trailer. Hey, pull it and see how it acts. If everything seems OK, don't sweat it!



Dave

 

[Archive]

Klenger... now you will really love that new exhaust brake! Miles of smiles!

 

[Shooter]

Having the 5th behind the axle might allow the trailer to push some on a down grade. It could behave more like a bumper pull than a 5th wheel.



Good luck and be safe.

 

[Jay]

When my hitch was installed in my 2500, the installer mounted it a couple of inches behind the axle (my fault!). I was a little concerned as my last two trucks (also short beds) had the hitch centered over the axle. I'm happy to report that I've not experienced any problems, sway or otherwise! My SunnyBrook weights 7300 lbs wet.



My 5'er also has been "solar bombed" (2x75W), a great way to go!



Enjoy your 5'er and maybe we'll see you in the mountains!