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What You Should Know Before Buying a Half-Ton Towable RV

Oct. 21 2021 Buying Guide By RV Outfitters of Texas

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Starting your RV adventure is a daunting task when you don’t know the best towable trailer for your half-ton pickup. Before buying a trailer, read this. Then, see us at RV Outfitters of Texas in Nacogdoches, Texas, also serving Lufkin, for help choosing the right trailer for you. 

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the total amount of weight a vehicle can carry. This includes the weight of all passengers and cargo. It is important that all passengers, the trailer and anything in your truck and trailer be under the GVWR for your half-ton pickup. If your trailer and the combined weight of everything your truck is towing is more than the GVWR, it can damage your vehicle and make an accident more likely. 

To ensure that the weight your truck is towing is under its GVWR, calculate the combined weight for everything you plan to put in your truck, truck bed, trailer, the weight of the trailer and the weight of all travelers. 

Hitch Type

There are many different types of hitches for towing trailers. Here is a brief overview of the hitch types and how they are used. 

  • Weight-carrying: These are mostly for towing small and medium-sized trailers. It helps to evenly distribute weight.
  • Weight-distributing: These hitches have a hitch platform that is bolted or welded to your trailer. A weight-distributing hitch lifts some of the weight from the rear wheels and distributes them to the other wheels on your truck and trailer.
  • Gooseneck: This hitch is attached to the truck bed and is best for heavy loads.
  • Fifth-wheel: This hitch is attached to the truck bed and allows the weight of the RV to be placed directly over the truck bed.

Tongue Weight

Tongue weight is the amount of force your trailer puts on the hitch ball. If it puts too much weight on the hitch ball, it can overload your truck’s tires. Too little weight will cause your trailer to sway back and forth. 

Know State Laws

States have different laws requiring trailers to have certain features if they are large enough. For example, many states require a braking feature on towable trailers if they weigh more than a certain amount. You have to follow state laws both in the state in which you live and the state (or states) you plan to travel to, so be sure you research local laws for all places you want to visit. 

For help choosing the best towable travel trailer for your half-ton truck, stop by RV Outfitters of Texas at our Nacogdoches, Texas location. We also serve Lufkin, Texas, residents.