2011 Duramax tow question

[newbrew77]

I have a 2011 2500 Silverado short bed with the Duramax. I am going to get a new toy hauler and would like some opinions on bumper pull vs 5th wheel. What weight should I not go above? Will I need airbags on the rear?

[kstruckcountry]

5th wheel vs bumper is mainly preference, but you'll probably prefer pulling a 5th wheel. They pull a lot easier and smoother and are easy to hook up alone as well. Airbags can't hurt, lots of people use them. Your owners manual has info on how much your truck is rated to pull.

[newbrew77]

Yeah, it says 16,700 max trailer weight. It also says 13,000 max weight ball hitch. I was looking at a bumper pull toy hauler that was 16,300 fully loaded and didn't think it would be safe

[kstruckcountry]

You could do it, but legally speaking you'd be in trouble. From my experience the 5th wheel is the way to go, everyone I know with one loves it.

[CKNSLS]

Yeah, it says 16,700 max trailer weight. It also says 13,000 max weight ball hitch. I was looking at a bumper pull toy hauler that was 16,300 fully loaded and didn't think it would be safe

Remember tongue weight is 10 to 12% of the 16,300 fully loaded total. (If you load it up all the way). What is the GVWR of your truck?

[Elbert]

this may be old news but anyway. I've read that if you are in the neighborhood of 13K total weight at the trailer....go gooseneck or 5th wheel. I like gooseneck if that's in your projected weight range. I believe 5th wheel is the max setup for heavy.

[Ramin258]

Fifth wheel