I have a 2003 F250 6.0 power stroke turbo diesel. I want to buy a new fith wheel trailer. (heartlandrvs.com 2950 RK) It has a dry weight of 10.2K, a GVWR of 14K but a hich weight of 2.2K) I'm not a mechanic, but I think I'm okay on the towing weight. I'm worried about that hitch weight of 2.2K. How do I know If my truck can handle that. The stats on the door say GVWR 8.8k, Front axel 5200lbs, REAR 6084lbs.

Feel free to email me direct at ibikeonatrike@yahoo.com

Thanks

You may NOT be a Mechanic... But ... You've asked the correct question... You're right to be concerned about hitch weight. According to this site >>>
http://consumerguideauto.howst...50-super-duty-13.htm

Your truck's "standard" pay load is 3440 pounds. That number is overstated because everything added to the "standard" truck subtracts from the payload. The Diesel engine weighs a bunch more than the standard. That should also include the 120 pounds or so the 5th hitch system weighs too.

The best way to know the weight your rear axle is carrying, is to weigh it. For a measly $8 you can go to a certified scale at a local truck stop and weigh your front and rear axles. If 2200 pounds added to your rear axle is over 6084 pounds you should pass on this trailer. There is a little bit of wiggle room since the front axle will carry a tiny portion of the hitch weight. I wouldn't count on it since it's easy to add stuff you'll want for the trip.

Knowing your truck's weight will also determine the max trailer weight too. Subtract the weight of your truck from the Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (CGVWR) to get the most your loaded trailer may weigh.