F450 with 29,000 GCWR


holstin

New Member
I know this has been answered many times in many different ways. But to tell you the truth it is still very confusing. I have not actually purchased anything yet but below is what I am looking at getting. Can someone tell me how to evaluate these numbers and if this seems to be a good fit.

TV:
F450 DRW 4.3 Axle ratio
GCWR: 29,000
Payload: 5700 (Still cant figure what this includes and doesn't so can figure max pin weight)
Maximum Loaded 5th Wheel Trailer: 20,100

5th Wheeler
Heartland Landmark
Dry Pin Weight: 2150
Dry Weight: 12500
Max Loaded Weigh: 16,100

Money wasn't a major factor in determining what I wanted for a TV. I just wanted to make sure I can use it for running around in also since I will become a Fulltimer when I purchase later this summer. I would prefer a F3500 SRW but am worried it couldn't safely support this trailer. The 3500 SRW is on rated at 15,400 thus I would be under sized from the get go and if I am going Dually I figured I would go all out in case I wanted to replace the Heartland later on for something else.

My main concern is being safe on the road and having the stopping power when I need it.
 

Grandview Trailer Sa

Senior Member
Re: F450 with 29,000 GCWR

Well, I can tell you that my 3500 SRW GMC is rated to tow a 16,600lb 5th wheel, and I am towing a trailer that weights 12,880 (just weighed it).

I also know a man who just bought a 4 slide 34' Heartland and is towing it with a 2500HD Chev. I don't know the weight on his trailer.

You might want to reconsider trucks if you want something comfortable to drive around in. Both trucks above are with the Duramax/Allison set up.
 

DL Rupper

Senior Member
Re: F450 with 29,000 GCWR

The man towing the 34 foot 4 slide Heartland is definately on the risky side . Risky for all of the rest of us on the road. Personally I would gp with the bigger truck. You will probably give up a gallon or two in milage, unless the F350 has the same 4.3 axel ratio. Does the F450 come with an air ride option? If so that's the way I would go. Just my opinion. :laugh:
 

Grandview Trailer Sa

Senior Member
Re: F450 with 29,000 GCWR

Guess I should have said that it is a 2008 Chev. Sits level, rides good and he has no problems towing with it. He is in GM's guidelines with what the truck is rated to tow.
 

DL Rupper

Senior Member
Re: F450 with 29,000 GCWR

I guess the diesel manufacturer's keep adding lbs to their tow capacity. I just find it hard to believe the higher and higher tow ratings the big 3 keep increasing on their products. My "03" 2500 is only good for approximately 12 K lbs. I can tow 12 K only because I have a fairly light 4x2 reg cab.
 

holstin

New Member
RE: F450 with 29,000 GCWR

The landmark is 38 1/2 feet with three slides. i think I will just stick with the F450. Expecially if Desiels last as long as I read they do it will last me into my second if not thrid 5th wheeler in the future. I am paying cash for it becuase i dont want any payments on anything I own. Therefor this truck should support anything I need in the future and I wont really have to concern myself too much with my TV on those either.
 

DL Rupper

Senior Member
Re: F450 with 29,000 GCWR

Good choice. :) A big Dodge would be better, but then I'm prejudiced. :laugh:
 
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