5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Short Bed

Question:

We have a 2004 Dodge quad cab 2500 Cummings diesel 4wd shortbed. we are looking at a new toy hauler 5th wheel. My question is this, the trailer we are looking at weights 13,500lbs. I looked up the towing capacity for my truck which says 9,000lbs...?? I have a hard time believing this is true? How can there be such a difference in the 4wd tow rating vs. standard truck tow capacity? please help? Thanks!

asked by: Glenn

Helpful Expert Reply:

To determine the maximum trailer weight you can tow with your 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 you will need to find both the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR). The GCWR and GVWR figures can be found on the information tag located inside the drivers door jamb. If you subtract the GVWR from the GCWR, that will give you the maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) you can safely tow. This is the only true way to determine the towing capacity of your vehicle as online figures are not alway accurate and do not take into consideration different packages and options.

If you do not already have a 5th wheel hitch, I recommend using the Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # C16521 with the Curt Custom Fifth Wheel Installation Kit for Dodge Ram part # C16420-204. The Curt A16 hitch has a two jaw interlocking connection which provides a 360 degree jaw to kingpin contact point. It also has a three point color coded indicator system which will tell you if your hitch is ready to uncouple, couple, or tow.

I have attached a review and installation video of this hitch for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L