2500 vs 3500

Enrique77

New member
Mar 8, 2026
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Oregon
In need of some second opinions. I have a 2500 lml. I want to get a fifth wheel. Dry weight is 14,300 lbs and supposedly hitch weight is 2,500 lbs. I’m looking to get new tires and possibly new wheels instead of stock for more weight capacity? I already have airlift air bags. We are looking to full time live in it, so hopefully we can down size on stuff and also plan to add a washer and dryer up front. Can I keep the 2500 or should I upgrade to a 3500? I dont want a dually.
 

2004LB7

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Dec 15, 2010
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Norcal
Maybe give your rig a try first. 2500lbs isn't too much weight for a 5th wheel in the bed
 

Bdsankey

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Feb 1, 2018
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You should be fine. Go take your truck to a scale and see what it weighs on each axle.

Then compare that the weight rating of your tires and see how much "capacity" you have available.
 
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FarmfedLLY

New member
Mar 14, 2026
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California
What’s the Gvwr? Your pin weight is 17.5% of the empty weight. Multiply 17.5% by the gvwr and you’ll get a better idea of loaded pin weight. What’s your payload?

My trailer has a pin of 2600 and dry of 13.6k and like 3200 max. I was towing with my f250 and it was ok until I hit some nasty wind.

Bought a 2005 dually lly and it’s way more comfortable towing. The big front ends on 5th wheels really changes the towing compared to a real heavy gooseneck flat bed. If you plan to stay srw idk how much of a difference it would truly make besides being legally in your payload rating.
 
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