New to fifth wheels

[fivweight]

My wife and I have made the usual progression through the camping world. Started in a tent, got a travel trailer and now we have just purchased a 2014 Columbus 36RL. The unit is being delivered to us at the end of this month and we are extremely excited to get it. My question is to the more experienced people with similar units. How is a larger unit like this for towing? any issues getting in and out of camping spots. I am concerned I may have limited my access to certain areas by going to a larger unit.

Thanks in advance

[SKnight]

First off, welcome!

I followed the same progression, and had the same concerns. The wheelbase on mine from pin to wheels is actually shorter than my TT when measured from my truck axle where it pivots, so maneuvering around a cg wasn't an issue though I was watchful for the much longer tail mine has. Towing is a dream compared to before, plus early results show I might be getting better fuel economy despite the weight penalty I picked up.

I cheated on the length and the site, I backed the tail well past the back of the pad. You'll find that's the case most places, to varying degrees.

I've only used mine one weekend yet but I can already tell you it's a far superior camping experience. Sheer size will be an issue, but is easily overcome with planning and practice.

[Ford Idaho]

There is a learning curve when it comes to turning it but it is an easy one to get around.

Never thought about a tongue pull because I wanted a little longer trailer in a small foot print.

[Wiscampsin]

Welcome form Wisconsin and congrats on your 2014 Columbus 36RL.

[Wayne & Kimmy]

Congrats on your 5er!!!

I took the same road as you, in basically about a year - after tenting for a year or so, to TT last January, to 5er in October.

I was concerned about the added length too - went from total of 34' to about 40'. But because some of that length is now over the bed of the truck, it is not as big a difference as it would seem. Yes, you will notice a difference on the site as you need a little bigger site, and I don't try to bring mine home to my subdivision any more as it would be more likely to stick out into the road and further tick off the HOA police!

From towing perspective, I far prefer the 5er over the TT. Make a little wider turns than you used to - especially right hand turns. Backing is different, but I find it easier due to the faster response time for the pivot (at least seems that way to me). I'm by no means a master backer yet, but I do way better with the 5er than I did with the TT.

Getting in and out of the campgrounds has been easier for us. You may have to look for bigger sites and 50 amp hookup, but will be worth it.

You spend way less time lining up to hitch, hooking up, unhitching, and setting up. So much more cargo space!!! One of the biggest changes I found was larger shower, more room in general inside, and most of all having 50 amp vs 30 amp - my TT kept kicking off if microwave and AC were running at same time, which the DW got tired of real quick!

You will find the Forum to be a great resource for help, info, and fun from a bunch of great people.

[SKnight]

Originally Posted by Wswkmw

You spend way less time lining up to hitch, hooking up, unhitching, and setting up.

This was shocking to me and completely unexpected. I tend to handle the setup/breakdown of things, and setup my 5er completely by myself the first time.

I was backed in, leveled, utilities connected and done in about 20 minutes. Being careful and all, being the first time setting this unit up. I didn't expressly time it, but did notice it was around 20 minutes.

So, I timed breaking down. Housekeeping done and ready to break camp I hit the watch. Slides in, stabilizers up, hoses and power cable stowed, hooked up and final walkaround done in.................9 minutes. No kidding. I was hooked and ready to go in under 10 minutes and again, without rushing.

I went from 40 and 20 minutes to 20 and 10. That alone is a great value.

[fivweight]

Thanks for all the great input guys, looks to me that it is going to be just a matter of a little practice. Basically I am adding an additional 14 overall to my length, but that doesn't count what will be over the bed. So in reality it will may be around 10'. I have be pulling the TT for years now so backing it is a snap, sounds like the FW is going to be a pleasure to pull. As far as set up I cannot wait, my wife really packs everything, it will be nice to have it already loaded and ready to go.

[SYE]

You will find out that 5th wheels are easier to handle. We love out Columbus along with the others 500 members in our Columbus owners group!!

[armulle]

I also just bought a Columbus. I must of missed the Columbus owners group, where's that located?

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[SYE]

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[Wayne & Kimmy]

Oh yeah, I forgot one other enjoyable part of the switch from TT to 5er: pretty much no sway while driving! Before we traded, I was gripping the wheel tightly and dreading big trucks, crosswinds, etc while pulling the TT. Made for a nerve-racking trip each time out. We contemplated buying one of those $2500+ anti-sway deals like Pro Pride or Hensley arrow.

But with the 5er, sway is all but gone, and I can drive much less stressed now! I still respect the load - a lotta weight back there, but can tow with peace of mind, a more relaxed grip on the wheel, and don't "feel" every tractor trailer and crosswind we encounter.

Viva la difference!!!

[grayfox]

Measure the height of your 5vr, measure it at the highest point hitched and on level ground. Be aware of low clearances. You'll be fine for the most part. Just don't forget you have a tall coach particularly with a big long unit.

Have fun enjoy the ride.