Towing Fifth Wheel With Lifted Truck [Will it Work Safely?]

Lifted trucks look cool.

You can tow a fifth wheel RV with a lifted truck, but it is not recommended due to safety issues.

It may be ok for short distance at low speed, but high speed is different,
so stay safe and do not attempt.

Be aware of these issues:

It is more unstable but the towing capacity is the same.
There will be more sway and bounce.
The front of RV will be higher and the rear will sag.
The rear of truck will be overloaded.
Be aware of ground and top clearance.
A 2 inch lift is not as dangerous as a 6 or 8 inch.
The bigger tires will flex, bulge and sway.
Lifting a truck adds stress and strain causing more wear.

Details

Hitch height adjustment: To ensure a level and stable towing setup, you may need to adjust the hitch height on your fifth-wheel trailer. Most fifth-wheel hitches are adjustable, but the range of adjustment may not be enough to compensate for the lift on your truck. You might need a custom hitch or an additional drop hitch to achieve the correct height.
Suspension and braking: A lifted truck can have different suspension and braking characteristics than a stock vehicle. It’s crucial to ensure your truck’s suspension and braking systems are adequate to handle the additional weight and height of the fifth-wheel trailer.
Trailer clearance: The increased height of a lifted truck can cause issues with the clearance between the bottom of the trailer and the truck bed’s side rails. Ensure that you have enough clearance (usually 6 inches) to prevent contact between the truck bed and the trailer during turns or when traveling over uneven terrain.
Stability and sway control: A lifted truck may have a higher center of gravity, which can affect the stability and handling of the towing setup. Using sway control devices, such as a weight distribution hitch or sway control bars, can help improve the towing stability.
Legal considerations: Be aware of the legal height limits for tow vehicles and trailers in your jurisdiction, as well as any regulations concerning lifted vehicles. Exceeding legal height limits can result in fines or other penalties.
Towing capacity: Make sure your lifted truck has the towing capacity to handle the weight of the fifth-wheel trailer, including the trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and hitch (pin) weight.
Professional installation and inspection: If you’re planning to tow a fifth-wheel RV with a lifted truck, consider having the hitch and towing setup professionally installed and inspected to ensure everything is set up correctly and safely.

Video showing unstable towing with lifted pickup:

Q: What problems can occur when towing a fifth wheel with a lifted truck? A: The biggest issue is that the trailer won’t be level, which can put excessive strain on the rear axle and tires and negatively affect handling and braking. Think of it like trying to push a shopping cart from the side instead of the back – it’s just not as stable or efficient.

Q: Can I adjust my fifth wheel hitch to accommodate my lifted truck? A: While some hitch adjustments can be made, it might not be enough to correct the angle of the trailer if your truck is significantly lifted. Also, adjusting the hitch too high can lead to decreased stability. It’s like trying to balance on stilts – the higher you go, the harder it is to stay steady.

Q: Are there any solutions to tow a fifth wheel with a lifted truck? A: Some companies make what’s called a “gooseneck adapter,” which can help to align the fifth wheel trailer with the lifted truck. However, these can put more stress on the trailer frame and might void your trailer warranty. It’s a bit like using a band-aid to fix a leaky pipe – it might help temporarily, but it’s not a real solution.

Q: Can I get my truck un-lifted for towing? A: Yes, you can have your truck’s suspension modified to reduce the lift, but this can be expensive and time-consuming. It’s like getting a haircut – it’s going to cost you, and you’ll have to wait for it to grow back if you change your mind.

Q: What’s the best vehicle for towing a fifth wheel? A: Generally, a heavy-duty pickup without a lift kit is best for towing a fifth wheel. The specific model will depend on the size and weight of your trailer. Think of it like choosing a dance partner – you want someone who can keep up with you and won’t step on your toes.

Q: Does towing a fifth wheel with a lifted truck affect fuel consumption? A: Indeed, it does. Towing a fifth wheel with a lifted truck can significantly increase fuel consumption. A lifted truck already uses more fuel due to higher wind resistance and the larger tires typically installed. Add a fifth wheel trailer, and your fuel consumption can skyrocket. It’s like going for a jog while carrying a backpack full of rocks – you’re going to use a lot more energy.

Q: Are there laws governing the towing of a fifth wheel with a lifted truck? A: Laws vary by location, but many areas have regulations about trailer height and hitch setup. It’s important to check with local transportation authorities or a knowledgeable towing company to ensure you’re in compliance. Think of it as checking the dress code before going to a fancy party – you don’t want to be turned away at the door.

Q: Can lifting my truck void its warranty? A: It’s possible. Some manufacturers may void the warranty if modifications like a lift kit are installed. Always check with your dealer or read the warranty carefully before making modifications. It’s like reading the instructions before assembling a piece of furniture – it can save you a lot of headaches down the line.

Q: Is there a risk of damaging the fifth wheel or the truck when towing with a lifted truck? A: Yes, there’s a risk. In addition to the issues with handling and stability, towing a fifth wheel with a lifted truck can put extra stress on both the truck and trailer, potentially leading to damage. Like putting too much weight on a shelf, it might hold up for a while, but it’s likely to give way eventually.