So a family member decided to get a fifth wheeler, now we need a truck, but dont know the first thing about them. Couple questions.
1. Half ton vs one ton?
2. Can I tow a moderately sized 5th wheeler with a non HD truck, such as an Avalanche, Sierra 1500, or base F-150?

 

It's all a matter of weight. A true 3/4, or 1 ton is made to tow. Bigger brakes, bigger suspension, power steering, better engine, and trans cooling. Yes, you CAN use a smaller truck, but you will enjoy the drive much more, and be safer with a larger truck.

 

It really depends on the size of your 5th wheel. An avalanche would be a definite no-no id say because of the size of their box. If its a small one you could probably get away with a 1/2 ton but with the style they make most 5th wheels these days id say youd be better off going 3/4 ton or maybe 1 ton. Even if you dont need a 3/4 or 1 ton, like mike said, it will make the drive a bit more enjoyable and relaxing. The bigger trucks will have better brakes, and the extra weight from the stronger suspension helps a lot to keep you stable rather than getting thrown around by the trailer (if its windy out or the roads are slick). It also depends on how much youre planning on using the thing i guess... hard to justify all that extra money for a big 1-ton diesel if youre only planning on taking the thing for one 500 mile trip a year or something.

 

I do not advise anyone tow a 5th wheel with a 1/2 ton truck.
They are not meant for that purpose.
That being said...
If you can find a 5th wheel trailer that puts less than 1/2 ton on the bed, you can do it.
Think about it, @25% of a 5th wheel's weight is on the hitch.
I am not familiar with a FULLY loaded under 4000lbs. 5th wheel trailer.

 

so any super duty will do the trick, such as the f-250/f-350 or does it have to have four wheels in the back (f-450). What exactly is meant by one ton/half ton?

 

Depends on how much your gonna tow. More than likely a 3/4 would do the job unless your planning on pulling 12K pounds or more. You can get a F-350 dually without going to the 450. Ton rating more or less means how much payload you can put in the bed of the truck but some are rated to haul more than that.

 

Go with F-250 w/ 6.8L. Can't go wrong with that truck.

 

yea dont the new ones have TT's? or is that just the F-350?