Tips for Towing Your Fifth Wheel
Fifth wheels are a towable RV that utilize a unique hitching system that hangs over the back of your truck bed. Since these are some of the largest towable models on the market, you’ll get plenty of space! But you need to know how to tow your fifth wheel before you head out on any adventures. Keep reading for some simple hitching and hauling tips, and contact Mountaineer RV & Outdoor in Weston, West Virginia with any questions. We are proud to serve Morgantown too!
Don’t Exceed Your Weight Limit
Most fifth wheel hitches can handle a weight limit of around 24,000 pounds, but don’t assume that your model can! Make sure you know exactly how much weight your RV can tow. You’ll need to know how much your fifth wheel weighs when it’s empty and how much it weighs when it’s full and hitched to your truck. Use your owner’s manual to find this information.
Prepare for Mountains
Living in West Virginia means you're near the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Although these are a sight to see, they also pose some challenges when it comes to towing your fifth wheel. Hauling your rig in high altitudes will take some extra skills.
If you have a gas truck, its engine will lose about 4% of its power for every 1,000 feet in elevation you scale. When using a gas truck, you’ll need to make your fifth wheel as light as possible before towing it. This means leaving behind any supplies you can pick up at your destination. You should also lower your truck’s gears when climbing steep inclines
Avoid Using Overdrive
Some drivers may be tempted to use overdrive when towing their camper. However, most fifth wheel manufacturers recommend that you don’t rely on this function. The added weight of the trailer can strain your transmission and lead to overheating.
Check Your Tires
The tires of your truck and RV should be in peak condition before every trip. Use a tire pressure gauge to check all of your tires before leaving. Make sure there is sufficient tread depth and that the sidewalls are free of cracks and damage.
Get in Some Practice
The best way to ensure that your towing experience goes well is to get in some practice. If you’re new to hauling a fifth wheel, you should practice towing it with your truck before you hit the road on an adventure.
We hope these tips help you successfully and safely tow your fifth wheel on all of your outdoor excursions! If you have any questions or you want to buy a new camper, visit Mountaineer RV & Outdoor in Weston, West Virginia, near Morgantown. We can’t wait to get you on the road in the perfect camper this summer!