Towing a Large 5th Wheel RV | Full Time RV Truck and Towing! | Changing Lanes!

[@ChangingLanes]

We hope you liked this video. It took quite a bit to bring it all together, but it's something we've been wanting to make since we launched our channel. Yes.. it's a long one... we know! LOL But we hope it has lot's of useful information. As always, feel free to post any questions in the comments area below and we'll answer as quickly as we can. Thanks for watching! 😊

[@BenFoote]

My wife and I (and our 2 kids and dogs) got our first rig this spring (41' 5th Wheel Toy Hauler) and this video would have saved soooo many headaches for us. We fulltimed all summer, and there were several sites that took me an hour+ to get into because they were so tight. Of course, I eventually would get in, but I would have felt much better prepared and comfortable if I had seen this video first. Also - I was meticulous about the towing numbers like you were as well - makes me feel good that I wasn't being paranoid. Hopefully your video helps someone else in the future - thanks for sharing this.

[@kennethbeauchamp7453]

Great video and very helpful. We have ordered and are expecting delivery of our new truck (2019 F-450) and our rig (Grand Design 380FL) early next year. I have had a lot of experience towing trailers and aircraft from my military days and days on the farm but this will be a new challenge. You can bet I will be searching out parking lots to test and practice every maneuver you have shown and any more I can think of.

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks, Ben... And I'm sure we've taken an hour to get into a few spots... Better to take the time and do it safely and without damaging the rig! Safe travels! -chad

[@patward4204]

Great video. Stumbled upon it the other day. My wife and I are in the process of selling our home and moving to RV full time living. We are starting from zero, so I have been searching KZbin video's for information. Can you let me know what the deficiencies you found in the 3500 Ram HD dually ? Ram has to be my first choice for reasons I will not share here. Thank you

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks, Pat! First off.. RAMs are great trucks! The cummins is an awesome beast of an engine. The issue with the truck the dealer swore would be great towing 20K had the 68RFE tranny and 3.73 gears. That setup is ok on payload, but only rated at 19550 towing. Just be sure to get the AISIN tranny. Thanks for watching!

[@tm5017]

This has to be the best 47 minutes a new RV'er could spend on theses critical topics. Nowhere on KZbin is there one video that covers all the essential elements that you covered so thoroughly Chad. Thank you for taking the time to put this together and educate us.

[@ChangingLanes]

Super nice of you to say! Thanks!!! And, thanks for watching!

[@hberry8844]

@@ChangingLanes My neighbors name is Chad. He's a good dude too. haha I second the guy above. The small details are valuable. General overviews are great too but the small tips you remember help when you're about to loose it. haha

[@scottkailey1]

Ya learn to pull a huge trailer on KZbin great idea.

[@hberry8844]

@@scottkailey1 Thanks for the help scott.

[@georgemoomaw9437]

AGREED

[@abowen2]

Holy crap.l actually stumbled on this video by mistake. I don't have nor do I ever want a trailer, but...I was glued to my computer for the entire "lesson" As a police officer, It gave me a much broader understanding and appreciation for those of you guys out there that have to maneuver these behemoths. So well made with not one single wasted superfluous minute...it was all good info and I thank you for taking the time to do such a superb job.

[@ChangingLanes]

Thank you, Art! And thank you for your service! 🚔👍🏽😊

[@anythingadrenaline4515]

Well know that you know what a truck can & can't tow "legally" please don't give us tickets if we are towing over the recommend weight😉

[@abowen2]

@@anythingadrenaline4515 your only worry is and should be in the event of an accident or a mishap where you "may" be involved, The officer will check and document your GCWR and your prescribed GCWR. If you are over the prescribed limit, doesn't matter how much, you in all likelihood will be listed as a contributing factor to the incident and you will likely be cited at the scene as well. the very best defense, at least enuff to ward off taking the entire brunt (responsibility) of an accident is as these wise folks have clearly advised...get yourself a dashcam for front, back and if possible sides. You may still get cited at the scene of an accident for the GCWR violation, but, you will have clear documentation that it wasn't you who swerved out of your lane and hit mom and pop's Buick but in fact it was the Buick's unsafe lane change that caused the accident.

[@johnruggiero6245]

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[@RaulG92]

Me 2😀

[@twilsey1]

As an EX long haul driver I came across this video and totally expected it to be a Joke! WOW I CANT express how wrong I was you guys did an outstanding job and all the camera angles with the explanation and detail was spot on. The wife and I are a few years away from RVing ourselves but I will be looking for this one as a refresher when the time comes. Thank you so much for the unbias info you Rock!!

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks for watching! 😊 Hope you check out the rest of our channel. 👍🏼

[@johnkillen588]

I WAS a tractor trailer driver for years and this vid is great stuff........my hats off to you.

[@juliagoodrich6483]

I’m a commercial truck driver and we’ve been considering getting a 5th wheel. I just have to say thank you guys for your focus on safety! There are some people who drive their 5th wheel trailers like they forget they have something attached to them. Some of those drivers really scare me!

[@ChangingLanes]

👍👍

[@dagmarglasman3099]

That was a great video❤

[@thatguy3493]

I’m a truck driver too and I’ve thought for years there should be a required safety class for drivers getting into RV’ing. Doesn’t have to be trucking school but at least an 8 hour course or something. That being said I do appreciate the time and safety conscious informative nature of this video.

[@everythingellie9228]

Wow, the aerial shots of the parking procedures are GOLD!!! This is one of the most informative vids I have ever seen!!!

[@raoulroberts2024]

I have neither a truck nor a 5th wheel, but I am a budding camping enthusiast, and I absolutely LOVED this video. Your information is absolutely relevant for your intended audience, well-delivered, nuanced, and objective. Additionally, I like safety and whiteboards, and your video is loaded with both. Well done!

[@williamcovel9100]

As former semi driver you nail it,

[@dirtbikeryzz]

I have no reason to watch this but its so damn informative I'm still watching.

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks for watching! Hope you check out the rest of our channel! 😊

[@patriciapeterson1400]

I also have no reason to watch as we full time in a 38 ft class A, and pull a small toad. But I couldn’t stop watching because “professor Chad” is so good at explaining everything. Both of you are so great to watch on everything you choose to video about. I actually subscribed after the very first video I watched and hit the bell too. I keep trying to see all of your videos and will at some point. Anyway, keep up the good work “Professor” and I will look forward to your next video. Happy travels!

[@michaeldean6252]

You don't have a camper? LMAO!

[@bradmcintire7264]

Thank you. Just purchased a new 5th wheel and tow vehicle. Not new to towing. Our previous was a TT. I strive to get better, because I am not good. This video is probably the best one I have seen for teaching backing techniques.

[@myopinion7393]

Absolutely good stuff!! I have watched a lot of videos on breaking down the tow capacity for 5th wheels. This was by far the best one with a great illustration. Nice rig and 5th wheel.

[@jasonhapner2520]

Hands down the best towing video I have seen yet. You guys nailed it!

[@stephaniesebero]

Thank you so much for your time, talent, and treasure! So helpful for me. Been traveling in a truck camper for a little over a year and graduating to a fifth wheel on Monday! So excited and a tiny bit terrified. Your video is so helpful.

[@jaycameli1590]

Thank you for putting this together. No one has covered towing and backing a fifth wheel like you all. Two month in and two issues with our 41’ GD Solitude, AKA the hive, have rocked my confidence. Your video gave me a few A-Ha moments and it clicked. Can’t wait to get it back from the shop at Lazydays and put some of this new knowledge into practice. Thanks again!

[@ije1200]

Good stuff! My wife and I just bought a 43' 6" long 13' 1" tall fifth wheel mainly for me to drop off for her to live in when she is working as a travel nurse. We will pick it up this spring, and I am trying to cram as much knowledge into my head before then as possible. Not my first camper but my first fifth wheel and the biggest thing I have towed. Thank you for your videos!

[@GunsmithLC]

I've towed big 5ers for years, and I've always gone by the motto, 'you can never have too much truck'.. Current RV is a Fusion 427; 44 feet, 19K GVW. Tow vehicle is my '17 F-350 DRW, CC, 6.7 PSD with max GVW package of 14K and 4.10 rears, factory rated for up to 22.5K GVW. . I do slightly miss the '16 I had before with 4:30s, but this works OK. Dash cam - yup. And if your truck has the engine brake - use it.. On the hills on Hwy 16 from Rapid City to Custer City, that engine brake is the cat's azz to maintain safe speed w/o the overuse of brakes. I've never seen any need to spend mega-bux for air bags. The F-350 is a heavy truck - ergo it's gonna RIDE like a heavy truck. If anyone wants a silky-soft ride, get an F-150 or similar and tow less camper/weight.. Frankly, the newer 1-ton trucks ride ever so much better than years ago.. A big 5th wheel will handle winds way better than any TT trailer. Oh, and buy tire monitors for the camper. Trust me on this one. They'll pay for themselves in NO time.. Happy camping!!

[@jessicavanhartingsveldt4934]

When I was training for cdl one of my trainers said "slow is fast" , and I agree

[@jposse187]

Slow is smooth, smooth is fast

[@PAS2010D]

@@jposse187 that's the saying. Police academy drilled that in. Sadly some people don't listen and don't train and shoot people instead of tasing them. Yikes. Not this guy.

[@younghex9577]

"Slow is smooth and smooth is fast" -Phil Dunphy

[@thorshammer5776]

Enjoyed this. Been RV’ing about 8 years now and I learned quite a bit that I didn’t already know which will be helpful.

[@pogminfo]

You guys are just absolutely amazing and awesome!!! What a great husband-and-wife team, and what a tremendously valuable video!!! I was a truck driver for a number of years when I was in my teens and more, and I love driving big rigs. I'm looking at 5th wheel RVs and came across your video. It is absolutely wonderful!!! Thank you so much for this!

[@daverice8304]

I think this is the 5th one of your videos I've watched and am really impressed with how much information they contain. Very practical and needed stuff for me. I've towed a couple of boats and a 20 ft trailer but will be buying our first fifth wheel (35') pretty soon.

[@brettkinch290]

Just got our Fuzion 429 (44'-11") and it's my first fifth wheel. Watching this video was time well spent. Thanks!

[@woody2014]

Great video. It should be required viewing for anyone just starting out with a 5th wheel RV. The safety and maneuvering information is priceless as well the great tips on available technology to help. I ran a 33 ft toy hauler for quite a few years and the full 8ft. bed and dually will make your rving so much more enjoyable down the road. Keep up the great informational videos!!!!!

[@firstmotorhome8024]

So much respect for you towing that monster ! Great videos ,lovely couple .

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks for watching! Hope you check out the rest of our channel! 😊

[@michaelcharge4783]

The entire video was great. I think the "go slow" and "get out and look" were awesome. The wiggle and 90 degree turning trick for the truck is awesome. Great job and please keep posting!

[@richardgrund5783]

Thank you for taking the time to do this. As someone considering a Fifth Wheel to head out on the road for fun and business this filled in a lot of blanks. Still doing my in depth research and this helped a lot! God bless!!

[@leonardlipton9874]

Excellent episode. Very informative and well done! FYI- the term fifth wheel comes from Glenn Curtiss- as a motorcyclist you may know that he held a record as the fastest man on earth from testing a dirigible engine in a motorcycle frame! He also invented the fifth wheel trailer by putting an attachment on a wheel/tire combination for weight distribution and shock absorbing properties. Thanks again for the informative video

[@leedykes1891]

We are a year out from going full-time and are doing extreme due diligence compiling info. This is by far the best video on this subject. I own a 2018 Dodge 1-ton dully. Every RV salesman/woman that we have talked to has said my truck is rated to pull the fifth wheels that we are interested in. I called the dealership where I bought my truck, gave them my vin#, and had them email my trailer towing spec sheet. (Engine, trans, axle ratio, etc.) Come to find out....Max trailer weight rating was a bust.GCWR was a bust. Even though pay load and pin weight are in-line, to safely tow the trailer we want, there's gonna have to be a new truck. Thank you both for sharing your knowledge. From one vet to another, thank you, Chad for your service! GO NAVY!!

[@platolover6377]

I'm just starting to look at RV's, Class 2, 5th wheel... This no nonsense, full of information approach is fantastic. Whether or not I take a 5th wheel, I now realize the implications involved with getting one. My compliments and all the best in your careers. A doctor from NYC.

[@kathydlatour6454]

I must say Chad, that this has been the best time spent on learning about the towing capacity of a vehicle and what to ask for when speaking to the salesman at the dealership. We've already done some research but nothing compares to this video. Thank you so very much. The detail you provided was so helpful that you have taken a load off my shoulders and mind when it comes to understanding the relationship between the two. This was my first experience with your videos and then I couldn't stop watching others. Keep up the educational segments. They are so informative and greatly, and I mean greatly, appreciated. :)

[@ChangingLanes]

Welcome to our channel, Kathy! 😊

[@Yakubesan1]

I know this is from 2018. But for someone looking into purchasing a truck and 5th wheel later this year this was the best explained trailering video I have seen so far. Thank you

[@WanderingWeekends]

Great vid guys. The more you tow the easier it gets for sure. Thanks for going over cargo capacity (payload) so many ignore that number and almost every single truck is different.

[@ChangingLanes]

True... too many get hung up on "towing" capacity and don't even think about CCC. I was in that boat before I studied up on the topic.

[@nicklorenson]

This why I bought a ram 3500, and put 4500 rear end in it. It was actually cheaper to buy 3500 and put 4500 in it .

[@truckn]

Greetings from Thailand. WOW! You guys are thorough. As a long haul trucker for 37 years it's good to see some taking the hauling with a pickup truck seriously because honestly what I witness on North American Highways and by-ways is people that are not serious about safety. The tip about driving Slow is great for another reason, you can see more instead of constantly white-knuckling the steering wheel staring straight ahead because you want to drive 70 MPH. The term for what you did on the right-hand turn is called the button hook. Doing it correctly you would signal left before entering the left lane and then of course signal right to make the turn. Many people including truck drivers use signal lights like they are an option,, when in fact they are apart of the highway traffic act. Awesome video. Travel safe and Be well.😎👍 PS I forgot to mention that a question I get more than any other is HOW DO YOU BACK THOSE BIG RIGS UP. My answer is I just back up until is sounds expensive. Of course I'm kidding.

[@michellewilkinson5127]

Excellent video! I see so many people pulling trailers that they have no business pulling because their truck just isn't enough to pull or STOP what they are pulling. Thank you so much for doing this video!

[@peterlepine]

Fantastic job on this video. It. Should be mandatory viewing for any person pulling a 5th wheel, and come with an exam afterwards. Thank you for sharing.

[@rvblessed9428]

Thanks for the info. My wife and I are starting the process of downsizing our life and deciding which setup would be best for us. We have been leaning toward a 45 ft class A with a stacker trailer to house our SUV, motorcycle and office. But your last 2 videos have really opened some further discussion. Great food for thought guys. Hope to see you down the road.

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks for watching, Gary! Hope you check out the rest of our channel! 😊

[@leanngoodall7602]

A fabulous video. I'm a couple years out from buying a fifth wheel trailer. Your video has helped so much, now I know what to look for in my tow vehicle. The lessons of hauling and parking are wonderful. I understand so much better now.

[@Jdubviewer]

What a phenomenal video for people looking into 5th wheeling

[@OTTERMANN2]

Takes a lot of time to put this video together!! I’m a videographer,you guys did an amazing job and I can see a lot of passion in every single second of this video!! I’m going out travel with my family for first time ! Thank you very much guys!

[@maryhirose524]

Thank you!! I couldn't find a good towing video. We just upgraded from our 33' tt to a 42' 5th.

[@rsg1963]

Good video, very detailed and I'm sure a lot of folks will get good info out of it. We also went between the Ford and Ram for our TV back in 2015. We settled on the 2016 Ram because we ordered what we wanted (started with a similar salesman as you...clueless). A MegaCab with 900 ft. lbs. torque Cummins with an Aisin medium-duty Transmission and 4.10 rear axle ratio. That gave us 39,100 GCWR/ 30,120 Trailer weight rating/ and a similar 14k GVWR as your Ford TV. Our 5ver at the time was a triple axle toy hauler but now we tow a double axle 41' Big Horn. I do NOT miss that 3rd axle on the trailer when in town or parking. Ugh, I hated it. The scrubbing third axle was like nails on a chalk board for me.

[@Stevem0311]

You guys gave great safety advice on your video. I manage Class A trucks for Fedex Ground. We pull double trailers. I was impressed with the advice you guys gave. Keep it up!

[@RalphWalton]

Wish I'd saw this a week ago. I just pulled my first 5th wheel today with no issues. Now backing up into a 90 degree space with a 6.87 bed SRW was challenging. My stress came from wife who is NOT patient and does not like my instructions (prior military). Thank you for thos video.

[@ericball6652]

Nicely done on, for many, a complex subject.

[@protofmaster]

This is a superb video: great information, great filming and editing, and great presentation! I found it very useful and I only have a bumper tow trailer. Thank you, Chad and Tara!

[@greghendren4234]

When I was getting my cdl I got two pieces of advice from a friend of mine. 1- use all the space you have available. 2- don't let anyone rush you. This advice has work for me for over 40 yrs on the road. Great video.

[@ChangingLanes]

👍

[@stevenmitchell1240]

Excellent.. appreciate the video. I am getting my 5th wheel in March and I have been watching lots of videos.. yours by far the best

[@ChangingLanes]

Thank you so much, Steven!

[@shannonegusquiza5342]

Look into Anderson Hitches. They are amazing. Also just an FYI if you pull by goose with an Anderson hitch your towing amount does go up some. We have done a lot of research and i hate to say it but ford can pull more right now over dodge.

[@BLAMBERRY]

Trucker tip... to make the 90deg. backup easier- just make the angle smaller! 1)Get within 6ft of your desired spot(ur left side mirror and the opening of your space) look straight down your parking aisle 2)pull ahead 6 ft 3)turn the wheel full right 4)start forward until your truck is facing the direction it will be facing when you are fully parked. 5)turn the wheel full left 6)start forward until your truck is facing the same direction when you started this manuever(#1) -at this point the left end of your trailer will be in the same position as you were when you were staring down your clear lane (#1) and it will be angled at a 45deg entry into the lane.At this point throwing it into reverse will get you into your lane. It’s the 6 foot, 6 step, 6 turn(3 in each direction) method and it works for anything up to 53’

[@ChangingLanes]

LOVE it!!! Going to give this a shot next time we need to back into a slot at Flying J! Thanks for the tip! Hope you check out the rest of our channel! 😊

[@BethConant]

Such good imfo!...we used to tow horses (1200lbs a piece+they move around). So it was truck, horse trailer (goose neck) and horses. Hubby was MOST insistent on truck being able to handle this...8.1 engine with an Alison transmission did the job. SO MANY folks do NOT pay attn to what they use. Your military training with aircraft taught u guys well!

[@dvsmike]

As a former trucker, i use what i learned, "when in doubt, get out"

[@abc123lov7]

Yep! G.O.A.L. = get out and look W.A.T.E.R.= Walk around the entire rig.

[@BuggieChief]

Thanks for posting the tutorial on backing and pull through! Believe it or not, KZbin is anemic with these type of vids. Nice job!!

[@timengle3042]

Hi All, We just watched your truck and towing video. We have been towing a 5500# 5th wheel with a half ton dodge. No problems with pulling. We are buying our toys before I retire. After looking at new 5th wheels we were always drawn to units weighing upwards 20k. We are Ram fans. We found a 2018 at a Ford dealer and went in to talk to a sales rep explaining what our plans were and we needed to be able to tow upwards 20k lbs and we were new to heavy towing.. He proceeded to tell us the Ram 3500 with the Cummins in it would pull no problem. So we took him at his word and bought it. After doing research we found out it would only tow 16,850#. Needless to say we were and still are frustrated. Also a comment on driving in a parking lot. Great idea. I want wife to learn how to pull, turn and back. Thank you for sharing.

[@bobbyhitt6463]

We have a 35' bumper pull and amazingly you covered everything concerned with that as well. Great Video!

[@randywiley66]

This is so educational never ever would I have any thought or idea of all this info

[@lefler3911]

Thanks for making this video some years back. We watched it 3-4 months ago when we were ordering our 397THS and rewatched it this morning because we pick it up TODAY! Our house has a cul de sac starting one door down on the left and so I have to learn to maneuver our new setup around that in order to park it in front. This video helps me do mental reps in preparation. Thanks again. ✌🏼

[@pedalpetter5865]

Hi Chad, in Germany we do say "I pull my hat in front of you" if we want to show our esteem. Very good driving skills. 👍 Safe travels Regards Volker

[@worklessrvmore5036]

AWESOME Video! The best towing video I have seen! Great job and THANKS!

[@ashleymarieramirez9055]

I cannot wait to show this to my husband. In fall 2022 we are transitioning into full time RV life and your videos are so insightful. Thank you so much.

[@sammysinclairos6017]

Soooooo inspired by all of your knowledge, research, and dedication. Moreover, I appreciate you sharing it with all of us. There’s so much in this video that I didn’t even think about but I’m totally nerding over. I’m going to watch this again, calculate, and and ask way more questions before purchasing equipment and hitting the road. Thank you! 😌

[@Handleyman]

She’s a beaut! Great lines, curves in all the right places. Oh, and your faith wheeler looks great too! 😂😂😂

[@georgemoomaw9437]

You noticed too.

[@jameskeyes1131]

What an excellent video. Everyone buying a truck and trailer should watch it. The tip about the truck exhaust pipes was great. I can't think of anything you missed. You are RV experts. Impressive. Well done.

[@raybbj]

Great Video. One of the best on the internet on these topics!. Well Done!!

[@jrgford1]

gonna save this helpful video for future reference!....thanks guys

[@richardcadena7746]

so right off..... i really appreciate your dedication to safety. ur proud to show your 1st aid, mention all of the fire extenguishers, mention that your not shy about getting out of the truck to check your position, etc. you guys are a great camera couple and make it enjoyable to watch your videos....they are def packed with info..... thanks

[@mikec9166]

Based and truckpilled. You are a scholar and a gentleman.

[@FrancoCastro]

I had to tow a 6*12 uhaul trailer from dallas to el paso. I felt so relieved once I unhitched it. Towing is not for everybody

[@ChangingLanes]

very true!

[@danball3892]

Man I loved this video. If you aren't a truck driver, you should be!

[@Bikerbro2007]

I hear what your saying man. I wouldn't trust salesmans word either. Doing your homework when specing your tow vehicle will save you a lot of money and aggravation in the future as well as provide an element of safety.

[@FakePersonna]

Excellent video! Thank you. Personally, I wouldn't be able to handle such a massive rig..... I will be sticking to my tiny 24 foot class C.

[@hrdcoreme]

I love guys this summer after my work season. My wife a 4 yr old are hitting the rd in our new seismic, I hope that she loves it as much as I hunk I am.

[@hardtruth2039]

They will absolutely outright lie to you. We went to 5 dealers before buying a very gently used 2019 Gand Design Reflection 5th wheel. We were told the numbers mean nothin and our Ram 2500 truck would tow anything with two axles.We gave up on dealers and not only did we save $12,000 dollars but after watching several great KZbin videos like yours we bought a rig that is in the sweet spot for our truck. NEVER NEVER NEVER trust a dealer.

[@bayashi23]

Great video. Thank you from Japan. ありがとう😊

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks for watching, bayashi23! Hope you check out the rest of our channel! 😊

[@KingOnema]

Bruh, this harder than Algebra you lost me but you were explaining everything just so perfectly like a teacher.

[@onedaywemay7494]

You guys are awesome. Keep up the great work!

[@chubtuggins5169]

You guys should be getting paid for this. Love the video.

[@JornKnuttila]

Don’t worry; they’re gonna be okay. 😉

[@jd257]

As a long time RV/trailer hauler, and professional truck driver you guys did a very good video for 'newbies'

[@GMHiramAbiff]

Wow! God bless your souls. Thanks for everything.

[@jasoncarlson8135]

We would like to see how you live corner in traffic (if possible) and live backing into spots again if possible. Thank you

[@florekj]

Wish I would have seen this video before we picked up our camper and bought a brand new truck. This would have been extremely helpful, thought you did the best job of explaining especially with the visual of showing the camper and the rig and the boxes. Great job and thank you!

[@EnjoyTheJourneyLife]

What a comprehensive and informative video! Great job, you guys are killing it! Congrats!!🎉

[@ChangingLanes]

Thanks, guys! 😊

[@joshmosley5864]

I had the same issue with a salesman at the dealer. I'm not doing a giant 5th wheel, just a truck camper, about 2200lbs(I didn't own it yet, but it was coming soon after the truck) I was looking at the Ram 2500 limited mega cab. Being that specifc on the truck meant I was ordering it from the factory. And I asked on several occasions if the 2500 would carry 2200lbs of payload. "Of course" they said. Well, after building my dream truck, it comes back with a max cargo capacity of 1900lbs. because of the mega cab and the limited package and 4x4. So yeah. the salesmen know nothing about the capacity's of the trucks. I kept the truck for two years and was able to upgrade to my actual dream truck the 3500 limited mega cab. of course doing my own research this time to make sure I had plenty of capacity. Finally can start the camper shopping.

[@ChangingLanes]

I bet if one of the brands started a "we guarantee to sell you the right truck or you can return it" program, they'd get on their game. Thanks for watching, Josh!

[@Garth2011]

I wouldn't have finalized the purchase and let the dealer owner know that this was ordered in error only due to the sales person. It's easy to figure out this stuff if you pay attention to the facts, gross capacity changes as you add things, change body styles and choose 4x4 etc. If you have a camper that is longer than the bed 8' and it's a cabover type, dually is best as those are heavy campers and they increase the center of gravity upward (top heavy) which can be a problems when navigating on the highway, in wind, mountain roads etc.

[@JeepCherokeeful]

From my experience, I wouldn’t be buying a Mega Cab, the bed is just too small for a slide in.

[@joshmosley5864]

JeepCherokeeful the mega cab still has a standard 6.5 ft bed. That’s enough for the size of slide in I’m looking for.

[@brandoncaldwell95]

Ive just broken it down to the added cost of jumping 2500 to 3500 and srw to dwr is cheap for the added benefit. Yes, the extra tires and the $2500 option are more costly down the road but it helps to have it when the time comes. Hell, my job is not buy about a mile away. I refuse to walk for safty reasons. Same time for the farm stuff i do on my land my little 1500 wouldnt cut it. Simple gone and bought a 3500 drw as a daily that really only collects at most 4 miles a day math wise over time but broken down its 2 miles then 250 miles out of random.

[@chucknewman3445]

I'm glad I caught this. We bought the truck first (2020 Ram 3500 DRW w/HO Cumins), with our eye on the coach (Grand Designs Momentum 399th 5th). We got the truck on 6/1, and the coach should arrive any day. This was tremendously helpful, and I thank you for producing it.

[@ChangingLanes]

Congrats on the new MO! Safe travels!

[@Tommy.McLean]

Amazing video. You guys think a lot like a trucker in terms of safety and routing. This video explains why if your pulling these trailers you should be required by law to get a class a or a class b license. I'm an otr trucker and the deadliest thing on the road are RVers who don't know how to load or handle their rig. FYI proper load is 60/40, me personally I'd go a little heavier in the bed/tongue weight in the winter so that way you have more weight on the drive tires for traction

[@forry100]

Thomas if you are referring to a NON-commercial Class A & B, then I can see your point, but I do not think we need the CDL crap mixed in with RV's. I drive a commercial truck part time and use one of my semi trucks to tow my 5er as do a lot of my friends. I have a CDL, but my wife does not and until we go to a dedicated HDT RV she is limited where she can drive legally. When we go to a dedicated HDT to pull the 5er she will not need a CDL and I know she is very capable of driving the truck, in fact I have talked to many leo's across the US that want more HDT use and less pickups pushed to the limit, if not beyond. My Ohio OSHP friends actually want to see an endorsement be added to pull any trailer regardless of size. They do not want to add more license classes as a few states have done, more classes of license adds more confusion, endorsements are simple.

[@Tommy.McLean]

@@forry100 unfortunately you guys are about. .001% of RVers out there who know what you're doing. If not a class of license an endorsement or training program. When I'm hauling freight in the tourist state July--August they are a nightmare of danger navigating the road with most of these RVers. It gets old having my life in jeopardy because some guy loads his setup to 25,999 lbs gross and can't figure out why he can't handle it. It's especially bad on the mountain roads. But then again as I'm saying this there's probably just as many horrible truckers not knowing what they're doing either so.... Well I don't call them truckers, I'm a trucker, they're steering wheel holders

[@forry100]

@@Tommy.McLean The OSHP idea is for an endorsement and I support their (only a few, nothing official, YET) idea of that endorsement requirement for any size trailer. As a professional driver you know a small trailer can cause as much problems as a large one. The problem with the different classes of licenses that GA, TX and a few others have is it gets confusing among other states and even their own leos. I know leso in Ohio think Ohio requires a CDL for anything over 26k and they only know about the flow chart that almost every state has in their law book showing that, yet they never turn a few pages to see all the exemptions. I do agree something needs done nationwide, but do NOT want it to become a commercial thing, you and I know the headaches of that all too well. Even a truck driver should take some time to learn about pulling a 5er for their 1st time, nothing like pulling a semi trailer, unless of course you are using a semi-tractor. Using my pickup to pull my 1st 5er years ago gave me a wake up call, even with almost 30 yrs of commercial driving exp. Now that I use one of my semi's to pull our 5er, I will never pull it with the pickup on long trips and only when needed on short trips, nothing beats the braking power of that semi-tractor and even better that tighter turning I now have.... love the looks when I pull into a campground and someone thinks I will not get into a spot and I am in it in minutes. A lot scream over kill, but I like the safety of it. For the record I am now somewhat between a steering wheel holder and a truck driver since I do not drive daily, lol.... but I think I still have common sense and while I can push it, I know and respect my limits a lot more than I did 30 yrs ago.

[@forry100]

@@franklast7955 my wife CAN past a CDL test and is VERY capable of driving any vehicle, but she has no desire to have a CDL, but if the law changed and anyone driving/pulling an RV related piece of equipment had to have a CDL she would. But since even a semi that is registered as an RV/motor-home/personal truck does NOT require a CDL she and many others will drive.

[@forry100]

@@franklast7955 who is dangerous? Those of us that use a semi-tractor to pull our 5th wheel trailers? If you are only talking about the over-loaded pickup trucks, yes that is dangerous and such why the leo's LOVE us that use semi trucks. I have a friend that is 80' and no one says nothing, but he gets plenty of thumbs up from leo's.

[@VH1984]

Love the Airplane quotes!! "Surely you can't be serious?" "I am serious...and don't call me Shirley"

[@ChangingLanes]

I picked the wrong day to stop sniffing glue! 😂🤣

[@AngelaRPierce]

@@ChangingLanes 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@ThunderPantz01]

Ever Been to a Turkish Prison Joey? You ever seen a grown man Naked? SureMiss that Canadian Boy Leslie Nielson. Awesome Actor in all rights.

[@dangerbill7255]

Nice. My wife's confidence has been boosted. Gracias!

[@SunsetSeekers]

Great video! Awesome information! This is the best video I've seen on this subject! Very comprehensive! Thank you! New subscribers!

[@rvninnorthcarolina3377]

I have heard that larger RV rigs are being stopped by the State DOT officers and they are looking at specifically the weight ratings to make sure your combination is within limits, just like they do with the OTR trucks. Failure to be within limits results in fines and sometimes you are asked to park it until you fix it(?). It is up to the driver to know his/her rating and to make sure you are in compliance with those ratings. Using the "Well the dealer said...." will not get you anything but an eye roll I am sure. Good info!

[@ChangingLanes]

Hear rumors of that also.. Expected it might happen in the Northeast, but all the way to Maine and back to FL so far with no issues. We'll see what happens out west next year.

[@forry100]

From the leo's I have spoken to, they are tired of seeing overloaded pickups pulling large trailers, even some that are legal, but on the edge. They love the HDT RV (semi's for RV use) movement as they know the truck is very capable of handling the load. I also know they are looking closer at those "making" money with the RV as that puts them into the commercial side, bad news for the youtubers.

[@headwolf3140]

RV'n in North Carolina ya I herd about that’s kinda stupid

[@forry100]

@@headwolf3140 What is wrong about the law making sure you are within you limits, not pushing beyond what is safe?

[@albertwhitlow8321]

Here in the states, your chances of being stopped are minimal. I wish more were; it would certainly cut down on the number of light vehicles pulling more than what they are rated for. I see way too many with their nose in the air and wandering across the lane in any kind of wind. In BC this fall, one weigh station had a parking lot of such vehicles. Mine wasn't one of them nor did any of those stopped have BC plates.

[@JokerSmilesGaming]

This was a good break down. My wife and I are looking to do this in the next 10 years.

[@edwardrogner8707]

best towing video yet, please do another one giving more specifics, how much space do you need in front to be able to do the 90 degree back? How much space do you need for the rear end swing when making a turn? I know it is different for every trailer but yours has to be at the high end. Ed

[@1tifersmom]

The rear end swing when making a right turn, especially in the city, is a huge concern of mine too. I've been searching the internet/KZbin with no luck on this. Plenty of talk about tail swing, but nothing about how to compensate for it. Would really like to hear any tips/tricks/experience with this Chad.

[@rosen9425]

If you're towing this beast of a trailer I would be taking notes from truck drivers looking at how they position themselves on the road when turning. Then adapt to what's necessary.

[@a65232]

I'm no expert on this topic, but I was an RV Technician for a year and a half (and went to college for it.) In addition, I drove a school bus for a year and a half. So I know a little about this. Edward, the space needed for the 90 degree backup, as you said, depends on the truck and trailer. RV Dealerships use forklifts to move trailers around so that they need very little space to maneuver. As you said, the answer is unique to every trailer and tow vehicle combination. It can be guaranteed that you'll need more than 16 feet (about the width of a two lane road) to maneuver like this. To answer Daphne, you compensate for tail swing the same way you compensate for any turn. In addition to the extra space for the turn, you have to make a mental note to leave space on the opposite side as well. This is often 4 - 6 feet. As Edward said, this space is heavily dependent on the trailer and tow vehicle. The RV Geeks channel has a video covering this topic as well. As a bus driver, the general rule is to simply take it slow, and watch both sides to see how far they move.

[@guesswho8863]

Originally, many years ago, the hitch rested on spare tire. thus fifth wheel

[@Ray092684]

Wagon wheels were attached to the back of a flat wagon. The center axle pin (where the axle pivots to steer) would slide into to center hole of the wheel. This evolved into the modern 5th wheel on semi trucks. RV's are simply a lighter weight adaption of the semi truck 5th wheel

[@christinelaird7631]

Thank you for creating and publicly posting this video. We started with a truck camper, moved into a class A, and pick up our first 5th wheel next week. The hints, tips, information was extremely valuable to us.

[@Trike.]

The dually does everything better than a single rear wheeled truck as towing and going down the road is concerned . It handles wind gust better, bigger brakes , more surface area planted on the ground, , no sway , reduncies should i loose a tire , more carrying capacity, hauling a slide in camper is safer with less body roll . Ya i cant go though the drive though at mcdonalds but that's a small price to pay for comfort and safety and peace of mind .

[@ChangingLanes]

LOL.. I wonder hw many people have tried the drive thru when towing. Thanks for watching!

[@Trike.]

@@ChangingLanes Not when towing but taking a 21 foot truck with duals can be a challenge going through a drive though . It can be done but a person might leave a fender behind on one of those yellow metal posts when making a turn .

[@williamhendrix3253]

I can drive my dually through the drive through fine.

[@charleykeeler4952]

I have no problems with a longbed crewcab dually in most drive throughs

[@ChangingLanes]

We've been in drive-thrus all over the east coast this year. I'd say about 95% are dually-able (new word). Some are just not possible at all, and many require a wheel or two on a curb. It's not a skill issue, it's a square peg / round hole issue.

[@dkromko]

Very nice. Thank you.

[@TRE3297]

Thank you so much!! This is hands down the best explanation of towing capacities for a layman I have ever seen!

[@carlosbishig1]

Beautiful video and hello from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

[@vvattup]

Brilliant 👍🏼

[@HaYLOHAYLIE1]

When I was getting my school bus license I hated the alley dock maneuver but sight and blind side parallel were my favorite maneuvers.

[@raymosworld_8062]

Very helpful thanks you guys you are the BEST!!

[@89425kw]

download trucker path for your traveling. covers truck stops rest stops parking Walmarts repair shops. just a wealth of information.

[@ChangingLanes]

We have it but haven't really used it much.. Will have to give it another shot on our next travel day. Thanks for the tip, and thanks for watching!

[@leedaht]

I'm a trucker and also a full-time rv'er. I would recommend the app "Smart Truck Route" off the app store. It does more than trucker path and an ETA to where your going based on traffic. The video was fantastic!

[@Gospelhits22]

Absolutely the most informative video I have watched. As a new RV'er doing research, especially with a toy hauler fifth wheel, this was by far the absolute best. Thank you.

[@outdoorvideos3825]

I just want the truck... and the dog.