5th Wheel Hitches (Click for additional topics)
The 5th wheel trailer hitches work with all fifth-wheel trailers, campers, RVs, and other vehicles. Some 5th-wheel hitch models use air ride technology. For a fluid ride and the ultimate control, consider the 5th Wheel trailer hitches.
Benefits of the air 5th Wheel Hitch
The Fifth Wheel hitches contain the highest-quality air hitch technology to make your rides smoother. The 5th Wheel Hitch provide several benefits for both your tow vehicle and trailer, including:
- Designed hitches to provide a less-jarring ride when you tow. Therefore, they prevent both your tires and your nerves from wearing thin.
- The 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches allow less grating and rubbing than a traditional hitch.
- The friction reduction allows you to get more efficient gas mileage. It also decreases the amount of strain on the suspension systems of your truck and your trailer.
- A smoother ride also prevents damage to the objects inside your trailer.
Let’s dive into some 5th wheel hitch information:
- What Is a 5th Wheel Hitch?
- A 5th wheel tow hitch is a heavy-duty towing receiver used to connect a 5th wheel RV (recreational vehicle) to a pickup truck.
- Unlike traditional trailers that attach behind the rear bumper, 5th wheels attach inside the truck bed.
- The mechanism is similar to how semi-trucks connect to the trailers they tow, but on a smaller scale1.
- Types of 5th Wheel Hitches:
- Standard 5th Wheel Hitch:
- These hitches are mounted in the truck bed and use a complicated coupling mechanism.
- They provide a more stable ride compared to gooseneck hitches.
- Slider 5th Wheel Hitch:
- Designed for towing with short-bed trucks.
- The slider locks in place between the cab and the rear axle during highway towing.
- When maneuvering in narrow spaces, the slider can be released, moving the hitch closer to the tailgate for greater turning clearance.
- Custom Fit 5th Wheel Hitch:
- Custom rail kits mount to existing holes in the frame, reducing installation time.
- They work with both long-bed and short-bed trucks2.
- Installation Tips:
- Height Adjustment:
- Set the 5th-wheel hitch’s height by measuring from the ground to the king pin and from the ground to your truck bed.
- There should be 5-6 inches of clearance between the back of your truck and the 5th wheel.
- Bed Liners:
- When installing without a bed liner, consider using universal rail kits that can mount to any full-size pickup.
- Custom installation kits are available for late-model Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, and GMC trucks, avoiding the need for drilling.
- Long-Bed vs. Short-Bed Trucks:
- Long-bed trucks are recommended due to the hitch’s position in front of the rear axle.
- For short-bed trucks, use a slider 5th wheel hitch and an extended pin box to compensate for reduced turning clearance.
- The slider allows normal turns during low-speed maneuvering, while the extended pin box creates more space between the truck cab and the trailer2.
- Remember, choosing the right 5th wheel hitch ensures safe and efficient towing for your RV adventures!
Click to see 5th Wheel Accessories