new to forum, need to know some basics

[georgiacatweazle]

We are thinking about full timing with a 43 foot fifth wheel. looking at buying a volvo 670 or FL. to earn so side cash on the road i will probably do some local commercial truck jobs using the tow vehicle.

the obvious problem is using as commercial truck we'll need to get appropriate insurance etc etc.

but will the pre-existing docking collar on the class 8 accommodate the fifth wheel without modifications OR can we buy a tow dolly to interface between the two ?

thanks

[hot rod]

The commercial fifth wheel on the truck will hook up to your fifth wheel camper, no problem there. You may have to slide it back for turning clearance to the trailer vs. the rear duals/mudflap/fender on the truck. You will need an electrical interface like the Jackelope to convert the separated brake/turn signal used on commercial trucks to the combined brake/turn setup used on an rv 7 way plug. Also you will definitely need an air pinbox on the trailer to cushion the harsh ride and not beat up the camper. The suspension is built to haul a 50000# trailer, and an 18000# camper takes a beating. Most of the guys using a HDT to tow their camper use an air hitch like the ET Jr. or Trailersaver (I have a trailersaver) but that won't be an option for you if you want to use the truck for commercial service as well. Check out the HDT Rally site, they have a whole resource section for using an hdt for rv service. I am planning the same jump myself, currently towing with a medium duty GMC, and want to move up to a semi next year. Good luck and welcome!

[georgiacatweazle]

Thanks for the information, I'll check out those products and sites.

Originally Posted by hot rod

The commercial fifth wheel on the truck will hook up to your fifth wheel camper, no problem there. You may have to slide it back for turning clearance to the trailer vs. the rear duals/mudflap/fender on the truck. You will need an electrical interface like the Jackelope to convert the separated brake/turn signal used on commercial trucks to the combined brake/turn setup used on an rv 7 way plug. Also you will definitely need an air pinbox on the trailer to cushion the harsh ride and not beat up the camper. The suspension is built to haul a 50000# trailer, and an 18000# camper takes a beating. Most of the guys using a HDT to tow their camper use an air hitch like the ET Jr. or Trailersaver (I have a trailersaver) but that won't be an option for you if you want to use the truck for commercial service as well. Check out the HDT Rally site, they have a whole resource section for using an hdt for rv service. I am planning the same jump myself, currently towing with a medium duty GMC, and want to move up to a semi next year. Good luck and welcome!