New truck and fifth wheel

[Ynot4me2]

I'm a big believer in a properly sized truck but often trailer sway is a result of an improperly balanced trailer. Often to much weight on the rear of trailer compared to the front of the trailer.

[Hoopy Frood]

Only about 600-700 lbs more payload in most cases

Just about every person on here with a diesel 3/4 ton is overloaded

But as you say, "Only about 600-700 lbs more payload in most cases", so figuring that, there could be many 1 ton SRW trucks that are also overloaded? I bought a 1 ton dually with nearly 6,000 lbs. of payload so I wouldn't have to worry about what I'm hauling. But TBH, you could likely buy a basic 3/4 ton that could have a higher payload than a well-equipped 1 ton SRW. The MegaCab Rams come to mind. And, of course, you have to figure at what overloaded amount will the truck self-destruct?

I have no idea about the actual/physical difference between modern 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks, but I do feel that the defacto statement that a 1 ton is inherently able to haul/carry more than a 3/4 ton is thrown around too much. And lots of details need to be factored into the mix.

[Hoopy Frood]

I'm a big believer in a properly sized truck but often trailer sway is a result of an improperly balanced trailer. Often to much weight on the rear of trailer compared to the front of the trailer.

That also is my opinion, and at such times the choice of truck may be the unwarranted recipient of criticism.

[NB Canada]

Everyone planning to buy an RV and considering truck size should go to Youtube and search for "trailer sway accidents". Those videos are eye popping and sobering. Sway initiation to INVERTED in 7 seconds.

I'd be willing to bet that every one of those drivers started that trip thinking that their truck was fine for the trailer they were pulling.

Sway is caused by only one factor
Poor weight distribution
Has nothing to do with the tow vehicle

[NB Canada]

I'm a big believer in a properly sized truck but often trailer sway is a result of an improperly balanced trailer. Often to much weight on the rear of trailer compared to the front of the trailer.

It is the only way sway is initiated

[NB Canada]

But as you say, "Only about 600-700 lbs more payload in most cases", so figuring that, there could be many 1 ton SRW trucks that are also overloaded? I bought a 1 ton dually with nearly 6,000 lbs. of payload so I wouldn't have to worry about what I'm hauling. But TBH, you could likely buy a basic 3/4 ton that could have a higher payload than a well-equipped 1 ton SRW. The MegaCab Rams come to mind. And, of course, you have to figure at what overloaded amount will the truck self-destruct?

I have no idea about the actual/physical difference between modern 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks, but I do feel that the defacto statement that a 1 ton is inherently able to haul/carry more than a 3/4 ton is thrown around too much. And lots of details need to be factored into the mix.

I would guess at least 50 percent of them (1 tons) are overloaded
Is it unsafe. No not imo

[Hoopy Frood]

I would guess at least 50 percent of them (1 tons) are overloaded
Is it unsafe. No not imo

Agreed. Not unsafe.

[robmcqueen]

There are other thing that can cause sway besides poor weight distribution. Cross winds, passing Semi, overloaded trailer, Tires on trailer just to name a few.

[Best Papa]

So I’m getting ready to pull the trigger on buying a truck and fifth wheel. In September, I’m going to buy/order a new GMC Sierra 2500 crew cab 4WD diesel with the fifth wheel package. In January, I’m going to order a Solitude 2930RL. My wife and I are planning are taking it for 3-5 week trips around the country with our base in Littleton, CO.

I’ve been reading this forum a lot and have seen some great topics. I have a couple of questions maybe some can help me out with. The 2500 diesel crew cab can tow 18,500 lbs. The 2930RL GVWR is 15,000 lbs. Based on that, I believe the 2500 should be fine, correct?

On the 2930, what options would you recommend? My dealer said the drum brakes and standard suspension are fine. Should I upgrade to the 7K axles w/ disc brakes? We might boondock from time to time, solar needed? What about slide-out awnings?

Any other suggestions for either the truck or trailer?

We have a Dodge Ram 2500 with a 6.5 and a 303RLS. Your 18.5K should do fine. The general rule of thumb is take your GVWR and add 100lbs for "stuff" you'll add. Water is about 9lbs/ gal.

I don't know about GMC models but make sure you get a towing package with Transmission and engine cooler. Make sure you also add a tire monitor system. I recommend the TST brand.`

We live in the desert in the west so shades are a must. You can't have too many. Check the panty space in the Solitudes. We found them too small compared to what the Reflection offers, especially if you're going to on the road for 3-5 weeks.

[NB Canada]

There are other thing that can cause sway besides poor weight distribution. Cross winds, passing Semi, overloaded trailer, Tires on trailer just to name a few.

Imo those are not sway events
Suck push from semi’s and wind are not sway
I properly loaded trailer will immediately correct itself