How do I Determine Fifth-Wheel Hitch Capacity VS Truck Maximum Weight Capacity?

Question:

I have a GMC 3500 6.6 gas engine. My question is about the 5th wheel hitches and their specific towing capacities. Im trying to understand which Curt hitch to purchase. I would like a Q series and was thinking the Q20 would be what I get. If my truck can only tow say 16000 pounds would the Q20 be adequate? I dont see why I would need a Q25 since I could never tow 25,000 pounds. Should I go by my trucks max towing capacity and purchase a hitch to match or upsize a bit? Thanks a lot.

asked by: Jack W

Expert Reply:

If you have a truck that has a towing capacity of 16,000 pounds, you definitely should not exceed that weight capacity of your GMC 3500. Even though the hitch is rated for 20k or 25k pounds, your truck cannot handle that amount of weight. With that being said, the Curt Q20 with Slider # C16536 would be adequate for your setup.

From the input of your vehicle into our fit guide, it looks like you have a 2022 model with a 6-3/4 foot bed without OEM prep. If this is the case, you also need the Curt Installation Kit # C16429-204 for the hitch. Also, if you need fifth-wheel wiring, that is the Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector # C56070.

expert reply by: Bob C