5th wheel GVW - 5th Wheel pin weight

[tmkwasinski]

While sitting around a fire, two 5th wheel owners were discussing what vehicle was needed for what 5th wheel GVW. Full ton, 3/4 ton, dually, diesel, gas etc
Both said that due to the fact that the pin weight was in and on the truck, it could be subtracted from the 5'ers weight.
(ie a 14k 5'er with a pin weight of 2k meant the trailer weight was actually 12k)
I've never heard this thought process before and was arguing against it. However, the more they explained it....... I started to see the logic. Both were pulling with 3/4 ton (one diesel one gas) both 5er's were over 14k.
Wife and I are considering a 5er but now I'm really confused

[mmartin_tdc]

They are calculating the weight on the axles of the trailer by their math. The total trailer weight does not change if is part of the tongue weight or on the axles. Max tow capacity is for the weight of the trailer, as it sits on a scale all by itself.

I have found the actual pin weight on my last 2 5ers to be in the range of 22-23% of GVWR for the trailer.

[ependydad]

The weight of a trailer (be it fifth wheel or traditional travel trailer) is the weight carried by the trailer's axles PLUS the weight carried by the truck.

The end.