Towing Vehicle Requirements for Your Fifth Wheel

If you’ve recently purchased a fifth wheel RV or plan to buy one soon, you’ll find this guide handy. Hawkeye Boat & RV Sales is your local camper dealership in Dubuque, IA, and we want you safe and comfortable while hauling your RV set-up. That’s why we’ve created this guide to discuss a few features you’ll want in your towing vehicle. So, let’s get started!

The Power

Your towing vehicle should have sufficient power to haul your fifth wheel RV. This typically points towards using heavy-duty trucks since they offer stronger engines capable of producing more horsepower and greater torque figures. You want to be sure your towing vehicle can handle the size and weight of your fifth wheel without giving up.

The Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of your vehicle is another aspect to consider when selecting the right towing vehicle for your fifth wheel camper. Your vehicle's towing capacity highlights how much weight it can pull effectively and safely, and you’ll want to avoid exceeding this limit at all costs. This capacity is determined by factors like the nature of the vehicle's frame build, brake system efficiency, and even hitch type.

The Integral Features 

Apart from raw power and towing capacity, various towing vehicle features can help make your on-road experience smooth and controlled. For example, the Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Integrated Trailer Brake Controllers (ITBC), and Tow/Haul Mode can significantly improve safety and control while hauling your fifth wheel.

We hope you find these tips handy when buying the perfect towing vehicle for your fifth wheel set-up. If you need more information or want to explore a few models in person before making your final decision, contact Hawkeye Boat & RV Sales. We are in Dubuque, IA, and proudly serve those from Cedar Rapids. We invite you to visit us where we're dedicated to navigating you through every step towards successful fifth-wheel adventures!