Measuring a fifth wheel travel trailer accurately is crucial for safe towing, campsite reservations, and adherence to legal regulations. The key measurement to remember is the overall length, taken from the furthest point of the hitch (typically the kingpin) at the front to the furthest point at the rear (often the bumper or spare tire). This guide provides a detailed understanding of how to accurately measure your fifth wheel and navigate the complexities involved.
Understanding the Importance of Accurate Measurements
Accurate measurements of your fifth wheel are not just a matter of curiosity; they have significant practical implications. Here’s why:
- Safe Towing: Knowing the overall length and height allows you to select the correct tow vehicle and ensure adequate ground clearance.
- Campsite Reservations: Many campgrounds have length restrictions, and providing an accurate measurement is essential to secure a suitable campsite. Exceeding the allowed length could result in refusal of entry.
- Legal Compliance: State laws often regulate trailer dimensions, including maximum length and height. Accurate measurements are vital for complying with these regulations and avoiding fines.
- Storage: Knowing your trailer’s dimensions is crucial when securing storage, both indoor and outdoor.
- Bridge and Tunnel Clearance: Height is critical to avoid striking bridges or tunnels. It’s a safety imperative.
- Insurance and Registration: Accurate dimensions are often needed for insurance policies and vehicle registration.
How to Measure Your Fifth Wheel Travel Trailer: Step-by-Step
Measuring a fifth wheel trailer accurately requires a systematic approach. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Gather Your Tools: You will need a long measuring tape (at least 50 feet), a helper, a notepad, and a pen. A level can be helpful for ensuring accurate height measurements.
- Park on Level Ground: Ensure the trailer is parked on a level surface. This ensures accurate and consistent measurements.
- Measure Overall Length: This is the most critical measurement.
- Start at the furthest point of the kingpin at the front.
- Extend the measuring tape to the furthest point at the rear, including the bumper, spare tire, or any extended ladder.
- Have your helper ensure the tape measure is straight and taut.
- Record the measurement carefully.
- Measure Overall Height:
- Use the level to ensure you’re measuring vertically.
- Measure from the ground to the highest point of the trailer, which might be the air conditioner unit, satellite dish, or roof vent.
- Be precise; even a few inches can make a difference.
- Measure Overall Width:
- Measure from the widest point on one side to the widest point on the other side, including any awnings, mirrors (when extended), or slide-outs.
- Most states have width restrictions, so accuracy is key.
- Measure Interior Dimensions (Optional):
- While not always necessary, measuring the interior length, width, and height can be helpful for planning furniture placement or storage solutions.
- Double-Check Your Measurements: Accuracy is paramount. It’s always a good idea to repeat the measurements to confirm your initial findings.
- Document Your Measurements: Keep a record of your trailer’s dimensions in a safe place for future reference.
Using Manufacturer Specifications
While manufacturer specifications can provide a general idea of your trailer’s dimensions, it’s always best to independently verify these figures. Manufacturer specifications are often rounded off or represent the trailer in its base configuration, without optional features that might affect its size. Furthermore, older trailers may have been modified or had components replaced, affecting their original dimensions.
Accounting for Accessories and Modifications
Remember to account for any accessories or modifications you’ve added to your fifth wheel. These can significantly alter the overall dimensions. This includes:
- Roof-mounted equipment: Air conditioners, satellite dishes, solar panels.
- Rear-mounted accessories: Bike racks, ladders, spare tire carriers.
- Awnings: Extended awnings increase overall width.
- Slide-outs: Remember to measure the width with slide-outs fully extended.
- Bumpers: Aftermarket bumpers can change the length.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 FAQs to address common questions and concerns about measuring fifth wheel travel trailers:
Q1: Where can I find the official dimensions of my fifth wheel trailer?
A1: Start by checking the manufacturer’s website or brochure for your specific model and year. Also, look for a sticker or plate inside the trailer, often near the entrance or in a cabinet, which may contain dimensional information. However, always verify these measurements yourself to account for modifications or accessories.
Q2: What is the standard width for a fifth wheel travel trailer?
A2: Most states allow a maximum width of 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches). However, it’s crucial to check the specific regulations in each state you plan to travel through.
Q3: Does the overall length of a fifth wheel include the hitch?
A3: Yes, the overall length of a fifth wheel trailer includes the length of the kingpin hitch. It’s measured from the furthest point of the hitch at the front to the furthest point at the rear.
Q4: How do I measure the height of my fifth wheel if it has an air conditioner on the roof?
A4: Use a level and a measuring tape to measure from the ground to the highest point of the air conditioner. Ensure the trailer is parked on a level surface. Having a helper is highly recommended.
Q5: Do I need to measure the interior dimensions of my fifth wheel?
A5: Measuring the interior dimensions is not typically required for legal or campsite purposes. However, it can be helpful for planning furniture placement, storage solutions, or renovations.
Q6: How often should I measure my fifth wheel trailer?
A6: You should measure your trailer after any significant modifications or additions that could affect its dimensions. It’s also a good idea to remeasure it annually, especially before making campsite reservations for longer trips.
Q7: What happens if I provide the wrong dimensions to a campground?
A7: If you provide incorrect dimensions and your trailer exceeds the campsite’s allowable length, you could be denied entry or asked to move to a different site (if available). This can be inconvenient and potentially expensive.
Q8: Are there any tools that can help me measure my fifth wheel more accurately?
A8: Yes, laser measuring tools can provide highly accurate measurements, especially for length and height. However, a standard measuring tape and a helper are usually sufficient.
Q9: Does the height of my fifth wheel affect bridge or tunnel clearance?
A9: Absolutely. Knowing your accurate height is crucial for avoiding collisions with bridges or tunnels. Always check posted clearance heights and be cautious in unfamiliar areas.
Q10: How do I account for slide-outs when measuring the width of my fifth wheel?
A10: Measure the width with the slide-outs fully extended. This will give you the maximum width of your trailer, which is important for storage and some campsite restrictions.
Q11: What is the typical height restriction for bridges and tunnels?
A11: The standard minimum bridge clearance on interstate highways in the United States is 16 feet, but it’s always crucial to check posted clearances before proceeding. Tunnels may have lower clearances.
Q12: Is it possible to estimate the length of my fifth wheel instead of measuring it?
A12: While you can try to estimate based on the model number, it’s strongly discouraged. Accurate measurements are essential for safety, legal compliance, and avoiding problems with campsites. Always take the time to measure precisely.
By following these guidelines and understanding the importance of accurate measurements, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with your fifth wheel travel trailer. Remember to prioritize accuracy and double-check your measurements before making any critical decisions based on them.