[cinker]

Hi,
I am seriously looking at buying a RAM EcoDiesel 3L . I want to tow a 5th Wheel but understand its difficult putting a 5th wheel hitch in the truck bed. The 5th Wheel is around 8000 lbs Dry. I am thinking of putting air bags under the truck.
Any feedback if this is a good option or if I should be seriously looking at a RAM 2500?
Thanks, great to be here,
Cinker

 

[SuperGewl]

Personally if it were me I would always go bigger on the Tow Rig. I used to own a Dodge Ram 3500 QC SB 4X4 setup just for hauling a 5th wheel and boy it sure makes a difference having the Exhaust brake (after market), heavy duty brakes, transmission, chassis and so forth. If you only plan on occasionally towing the 5th wheel you may be OK.
As far as the hitch, you will need a slider hitch so to not crunch the back of the cab and front of the 5th wheel when making turns.
Remember you still need to be able to stop the thing also look at the hitch weight of the 5th wheel. I believe these trucks only have bout 1300lb payload and when you add in the weight of the hitch and passengers along with the hitch weight of the 5th wheel you will most likely be over.

 

[Katoom250SX]

Yea.....go with a 3/4 or 1 ton...I had a salem 29' double slide travel trailer for about a monthalf before I sold and down sized. My Salem was if I recall 7000 lbs . My ecodiesel pulled it fine, but I'm sure the longevity of the trucks drive train would have suffered. I don't care what brand you are loyal to, an 8000 # dry trailer needs to be behind a 3/4 ton in my opinion.

 

[Katoom250SX]

Also, I have aftermarket bags and a weight distribution hitch. I can tell you that a 5200 # trailer with a slide out is perfect for my ed crew with 3:55s. I'm close to 6000 loaded (trailer) & if I'm in the flats I'm knocking down 15-16 mph pulling it.

 

[beavermike]

Get a 2500 or 3500.

Ditto what everyone else said. Get a 2500. No 1500 or half ton should be pulling that weight on a regular basis. I can't believe the stupid ads on TV, mostly Furd and Chumpy on who can pull the most.

My neighbor asked my to tow in his tractor in for service this weekend. About 7000 lbs or a bit more. No problem with the tow, only 15 miles. But boy could I feel the soft suspension, shocks, etc on the 1500. No way my old 2500 would feel that soft. Sure you could replace all that stuff and beef the truck up, but what's the point.