Towing Travel Trailer

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Jul 27, 2012 | 04:58 PM

ranstl

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Joined: Feb 2006

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Towing Travel Trailer

I have a 2011 F150 SCREW (5.5' bed) with the 5.0L and 373's.

We are looking at a new travel trailer, or possibly, a smaller 5th wheel. I'd like to hear what others are towing in terms of size and weight, and how the truck handles. We are looking at trailers in the 27' - 30' range (weighing in around between 6000 and 7200 lbs). Figuring in another 2000 # for people, fuel, and supplies, I am getting at the top end of the load range.

I'd prefer a 5er, but I'm scared of the sliding hitch. Any opinion on that set-up?

Jul 27, 2012 | 07:44 PM

Greg B

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I, personally would shy away from a 5'er with a 5.5' bed. If the corners of the 5'er aren't rounded enough the risk of the trailer smacking the cab is more risk than I would want to take. I also wouldn't want to tow a 5'er without the heavy duty payload package. As for the weight of the trailer, I'm quite confident that a tag trailer would pull fine with the weight distribution bars and sway control installed. But I think the 5'er would be pushing or exceeding the limits when loaded on an F150 with that much pin weight over the axle.

Jul 28, 2012 | 05:19 PM

efx4

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Joined: Oct 2005

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From: South Jersey

I agree with the fifth wheel advice with a 5.5' bed. There are one's small enough to tow with that bed, but a travel trailer gives you more size and options. Just stay within the tow weight and payload of the truck and you will be fine. Keep in mind that cargo, people and fluids in the camper tanks should be subtracted from the tow weight of the truck, and that is the approximate tow weight of trailer your truck can safely tow.