High Country Dry weights

[ep4me]

Comparing dry weights of new models 2023 HCs vs other comparable brands(not Keystone) fifth wheels HCs weigh 1000 to 3000 lbs more and have higher hitch weights.

Does anybody know why?

none of those other fifth wheels have drop frames is that the difference?

Maybe heavier frames and axles is that right?

[rohrmann]

Not sure about the HC itself, but the Montana line is using heavier frames, and that is a good thing. There were too many frame failures due to the lighter weight frames. We had a broken frame some years ago that we were able to have repaired, but it should have never happened. It was because not enough steel was used in the important place in the frame.

[Daryles]

Montana went to a 12" frame a few years ago.

[jsb5717]

I suppose that "heavier" doesn't always mean "stronger". But, even though High Country is a lighter rig than the full Montana it still feels like a very substantial build. We've been very happy with ours.

What other similar models are you comparing it to? From what I've seen they are all fairly comparable in weight when basically comparing apples to apples (full profile vs mid or low profile, length, floorplan, features, etc). The heavier hitch weight makes sense since it is typically a direct reflection of overall weight.

[AZ Traveler]

HC has gone to hydraulic slides which adds some weight.

[twindman]

And pin weight varies a lot by model number. Depends on where the wheels are located on the body - obviously farther forward puts more weight behind the axles and therefore less on the pin. Most similar length models are the same, but seems like every once in a while one unit has a lower pin weight.

And pin weight doesn't reflect some heavy items like washer/dryer that is usually very near the pin. Most people think you should take something like 22% or so of the GVWR. I have a unit with a lower rated pin weight (2100) but I still run around 2400-2500 but that is only 17% or so, I think.

[Foldbak]

HC uses a 10" frame but it's built fairly substantially. SOB doesn't hold a candle. The big diff between HC and Montana is drop frame size, Disc brakes, Hardwood, paint, rear cap....am I missing anything?

[Cat320]

The only weights that are any good for any type computations for trailers are the GVWRs.

[mhs4771]

Agreed, our unit left the Factory over 1000 Lbs heavier than the Brochure Dry weight, and remember that's before anything has been put into or on the unit.