If you're an RVer with a Chevy Silverado 2500, you likely have a sense of adventure and longing for the freedom that come with towing a fifth wheel trailer. However, there are some unique challenges involved in 5th wheel towing with a Silverado. What is the best way to support your truck's rear suspension with the weight of your fifth wheel? And why is a fifth wheel RV called that? Read on to find out!

Understanding The Basics Of RV Towing With A Silverado 2500

When preparing to tow a fifth wheel RV with your Chevy Silverado 2500, it's crucial to first understand your truck's towing capacities and the importance of stable handling and control. Each element plays a large role in ensuring safe and efficient RV towing so you can focus on enjoying your travels.

What Is A 5th Wheel Trailer? Why Is It Called That?

A fifth wheel RV is a large, towable trailer designed to be hitched inside the bed of a pickup truck. Unlike conventional trailers, the hitch (or fifth wheel) connects over the truck’s rear axle, providing a more stable towing experience.

The term fifth wheel originates from its resemblance to a circular, horizontal coupling attached to the bed of a truck, similar to a wheel. This type of hitch system offers an improved turning radius, making it easier to tow larger trailers.

Towing Capacity and Tongue Weight 

Your Chevy Silverado 2500 is rated for specific towing capacities, which depend on engine specifications and configuration. Models equipped with the 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel Engine can tow up to 18,500 pounds with a fifth-wheel trailer. However, always check your owner's manual for exact specifications for your truck model.

Tongue weight, or the downward force exerted by the trailer on the truck’s hitch, is another critical factor. For optimal towing, tongue weight for fifth wheel trailers typically ranges between 15 and 30 percent of the loaded trailer weight. Not following these guidelines can lead to poor handling and safety issues. 

Importance of Stable Handling and Control

Stable handling and control are important when towing a fifth wheel RV. A well-balanced setup with proper weight distribution will minimize swaying and improve overall control. 

Investing in the right helper springs for 5th wheel trailer towing, like Timbren SES, can significantly improve your ride quality. Timbren Helper Springs help maintain truck stability under load, reducing rear sag and enhancing braking and steering responsiveness, ensuring a smoother and safer trip.

Why Silverado 2500 Owners Need Helper Springs for Towing 

Towing a 5th-wheel trailer imposes significant strain on your Silverado 2500’s suspension system. The right suspension springs can mitigate this additional strain and provide a more controlled and comfortable towing experience. 

Timbren suspension upgrade for fifth wheel towing is particularly effective in addressing common concerns:

• Jackknifing: Timbren SES helps maintain vehicle stability, reducing the risk of jackknifing.
• Side-to-Side Sway and Roll: Reduces sway and roll, improving directional control and stability.
• Overloading: Supports heavy loads effectively, preventing suspension stress.
• Wind Risk: Maintains vehicle level and stability to aid in control during windy conditions. It's best to avoid towing an RV in high winds.
• White-Knuckling: Timbren creates a smoother and more comfortable ride, reducing driver fatigue.
• Tire Blowouts: Maintains even weight distribution, lowering the strain on tires. 

Coil Tension Springs vs Rubber Helper Springs 

There are two primary types of helper springs: coil tension springs and rubber helper springs. While both types aim to improve your truck's towing capabilities, rubber springs like Timbren SES often outperform their coil tension counterparts. 

Coil Tension Springs

Coil tension springs are designed to offer additional support by counteracting the extra weight placed on the rear axle of the vehicle. They are made from steel coils and are installed between the axle and the frame of the truck. 

Pros:

• It can be less expensive initially.

• Simple technology with easy maintenance.

Cons:

• Unable to adjust automatically to varying loads.

• It may be less effective in absorbing large shocks and vibrations.

• Tend to wear out faster, leading to more frequent replacements. 

Rubber Helper Springs

Rubber helper springs, such as Timbren SES, are designed to offer superior 5th wheel towing suspension support by compressing and expanding based on the load applied to the vehicle. These springs are made from high-grade natural rubber and are installed in place of or in addition to existing suspension components. 

Pros: 

• Automatically adjusts to different loads.

• Superior shock absorption.

• More durable and resistant to wear and tear.

• Provides a smoother, more comfortable ride.

Cons

• It can have a higher initial cost.

Comparing Road Active Suspension (RAS) and Timbren SES

Choosing the right suspension upgrade for your Silverado 2500 can significantly enhance your towing experience. Both Road Active Suspension and Timbren Systems offer distinct benefits. Let's dive into the specifics to help you make an informed decision.

Road Active Suspension 3611-HD utilizes coil tension springs, designed to convert your vehicle’s leaf springs into an active suspension system. This system automatically adjusts to changes in load, aiming to level your ride.

Timbren Suspension Systems GMRCK25D uses rubber helper springs, which offer a different approach by providing a progressive spring rate that adjusts to increased loads. The rubber springs work exceptionally well in reducing rear squat and maintaining ride height under heavy towing conditions.

Pros and Cons of Road Active Suspension 3611-HD

RAS 3611-HD is composed of steel coil tension springs. While the installation is fairly straightforward, they may require periodic adjustments. The product performance provides additional truck rear suspension support but is less effective in extreme conditions.

Pros:

• Handling and Control: Provides better handling and increased control, especially when your Silverado 2500 is under significant load.
• Installation: Simple and straightforward installation without the need for drilling or additional components.
• Customer Reviews: Positive feedback on improved ride quality and effective load distribution.

Cons:

• Cost: Higher initial cost compared to standard overload springs.
• Durability: Coil tension springs may experience wear over time, particularly under extreme conditions.
• Comfort: This may not provide the same level of ride comfort as rubber-based systems when fully loaded. 

Pros and Cons of Timbren Solutions GMRCK25D

The product is made of high-grade natural rubber. The installation is easy and can often be done yourself with no special tools in under an hour. No modifications or maintenance are required. The performance provides excellent shock absorption and automatically adjusts to loads.

Pros:

• Load Handling and Stability: Offers superior load handling and stability, reducing rear squat effectively when towing a 5th-wheel trailer.
• Ride Comfort: A smooth, progressive spring rate ensures a comfortable ride, even under heavy load conditions. Drivers report less vibration and improved ride quality.
• Durability: Rubber helper springs are known for their long lifespan and can withstand heavy use without significant wear.
• Cost and Value: More cost-effective than many alternatives, providing excellent value in terms of performance and longevity.

Cons:

• Fitment: Specific to your specific vehicle model, requiring you to ensure compatibility with your Silverado 2500.

In terms of maximizing towing capabilities without compromising on safety or comfort, Timbren SES is the clear winner. Their rubber helper springs provide better load handling, increased stability, and enhanced ride comfort, making them an excellent choice for heavy-duty towing with your Silverado 2500. Timbren also features a lifetime warranty.

Customer Testimonials Timbren GMRCK25D

As RVers ourselves, we know firsthand how much of a difference Timbren SES makes to the rear suspension of a Chevy truck. We towed our large fifth wheel RV with our Silverado for a couple of years and endured a rough, unstable ride. Once we learned about Timbren SES from a local mechanic, we decided it was time for an upgrade. What an incredible difference in our travel days! 

Now, our ride is smooth and controlled. I feel safer and more in control when towing our RV, and we are glad we discovered this product. We aren't the only RVers saying great things about Timbren. Check out what these other RV campers had to say about Timbren SES for a Chevy Silverado 2500.

• John D.: "The Timbren SES kit transformed my towing experience. My Silverado stays level, and the ride is incredibly smooth even with my 5th wheel attached." Review from etrailer.com.
• Mark N.: "Super easy install and great improvement on the 2021 Chevy 2500 squat while under load! Great product and great company." Review from Timbren.com.
• Steven H: "Ease of installation is always appreciated and the product fits perfectly. The stability under towing is an excellent for piece of mind." Review from Timbren.com.
• Joe B: "Fast shipping! I Have a 16k lb gooseneck trailer and my Silverado 2500HD was sagging a lot. Put them on and what a surprise no more sagging and truck drives good when trailer is fully loaded and suspension feels great when the trailer is not connected." Review from Amazon. 

Final Thoughts On Fifth Wheel Towing With A Silverado 2500 Truck

For Silverado 2500 owners who tow fifth wheel RVs, Timbren SES stands out as the superior choice. It offers unparalleled load handling, ride comfort, durability, and value. Installing Timbren SES will enhance every part of your towing experience, ensuring safe, comfortable, and stress-free RV adventures. Don't make the mistake we did and endure rough RV travel days. You will be glad you made this simple upgrade to your Silverado!