How To Choose The Best Fifth Wheel Hitch ?
Have you tried hauling a trailer without a hitch? Of course, it is not possible especially if there are lots of weight on the trailer.
Pulling a trailer is a specialized task, and you need a special hitch to complete the job. But there are lots of them available in the market and you are burdened with finding the right one. Worry no more as we are here to help.
This guide contains everything you need to know about trailer hitch. To help you on choosing, we reviewed 5 of the best fifth wheel hitches on the market today.
Related Reading: Best Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
- Fully articulating head allows front to back and side to side pivoting.
- Cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites.
- Polyurethane bushings provide a quiet, rattle-free towing experience.
- 20,000 lb GTW/5,000 lb VTW
- Made in America with a Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Compatible with the Ford OEM hitch platform
- Fully articulating head allows front to back and side to side pivoting. Cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites.
- Cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites.
- 20,000 lb GTW/5,000 lb VTW
- Made in America with a Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Item may ship in more than one box and may arrive separately
- 16,000 lbs. Capacity; 4,000 lbs. pin weight capacity
- 6" side-to-side pivot to better accommodate hook-ups on uneven ground and easier towing
- Adjustment heights from 14 1/2" to 18", fore-and-aft and side-to-side pivot
- Two-jaw locking system with locking jaw handle
- Compatible with the 2020-2022 Chevrolet/GM OEM hitch platform
- Fully articulating head allows front to back and side to side pivoting. Cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites.
- Cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites.
- 20,000 lb GTW/5,000 lb VTW
- Made in America with a Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Fits industry standard mounting rails
- Fully articulating head allows front to back and side to side pivoting. Cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites.
- Polyurethane bushings provide a quiet, rattle-free towing experience.
- 18,000 lb GTW/4,500 lb VTW
- Made in America with a Limited Lifetime Warranty
More...
Product Name | Image | Price | Rating | ||
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1 |  |  | 5+ | ||
2 |  | | 5+ | ||
3 |  | | 4+ | ||
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7 |  | 4+ | 5+ |
Reese 30120 20K Pro Series | B&W Trailer Flatbed RV Hitches 3050 | CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch | CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch | B&W RVK3400 Trailer Hitches | B&W RVK3400 Trailer Hitches | B&W RVK3400 Trailer Hitches | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Capacity | 20,000 lbs. | 22,000 lbs. | 20,000 lbs. | 16,000 lbs. | 20,000 lbs. | 24,000 lbs. | 20,000 lbs. |
Package Dimension | 45.2 x 36.8 x 10 inches | 68 x 23 x 8 inches | Enter your text here... | 27 x 12 x 17 inches | 32 x 44 x 19 inches | 20,000 lbs. | 26 x 30 x 10 inches |
Weight | 120 lbs. | 121 lbs. | 140 lbs | 199 lbs. | 207 lbs. | 111 lbs. | 131.5 lbs. |
Product Name | Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|---|
- Can carry loads up to 20,000 pounds | - The installation instructions are confusing | ||
- Installation is simple, just drop the post in the ball hole of the gooseneck hitch and secure. | - It fits only some trucks | ||
- Heavy-duty towing capacity | - It is hard to remove | ||
- Has an auto-locking mechanism for simple and secure coupling | - Head not self levelling | ||
- With 20,000 pounds gross towing weight - Easy to remove hitch when not in use - Navigating is not a problem when you have a slider assembly - Durable construction | - The hitch takes up a lot of space in the bed. | ||
- It is a heavy-duty model that can carry up to 24000 lbs. - It can tilt in all directions. - Its stopper has thick rubber that keeps the head well-cushioned - Easy to install - Locking the lever is easy and with color indicator | - The height adjustment is not suitable for all types of vehicles. | ||
- Easy and convenient to install. | - Kit does not include other installation materials. |
1. Reese 30120 20K Pro Series
The Reese 30120 is an impressive fifth wheel trailer hitch that can handle up to 20,000 pounds. In spite of having the capability to haul heavyweights, the hitch is quite light. The single foot is mounted to provide better stability.
The height can be adjusted from 13 inches to 17 inches. Thus you can use it in most locations. Reese 30120 is very reliable and efficient. It exemplifies a simple functionality and can be installed fast or removed when not in use.
Important Features of Reese 30120 Pro Series 20K
What I Think About The Product
The Reese 30120 is a good choice if you are in search for an excellent overall hitching performance. While it does not pivot in every direction, it is a quality product that will help you get through on most hitching situations.
2. B&W Trailer Flatbed RV Hitches 3050
The B&W Trailer hitch has a dual jaw design and is a versatile hitch with a gross weight capacity of 22,000 lbs.
This product is installed under-bed gooseneck hitch. Just like other B&W products it uses cam motion lever which handles binding pressure on a rocky terrain.
It has a fully articulated head that makes it easier for you to hitch up on uneven grounds. You will experience less rattling while running because it has rubber pads all throughout its construction.
Vital Features of B&W Trailer Hitches 3050 RV Hitch
What I Think About The Product
If you want a versatile hitch to tow your trailer, then the B&W Trailer Hitches 3050 is a good choice. It has a gooseneck hitch which makes it a great option if you want to haul a fifth wheel hitch.
3. CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch
The Curt 16130 has all the features that you like for the A-series but without the ability to slide. So, if you are looking for a quality stationary hitch, the Curt 16130 is a good option.
The main feature of this hitch is a three-position coupler that you can view from the rearview mirrors so you know when you have locked it. It likewise has a dual jaw system that wraps around the kingpin for less movement and noise while driving.
To make it easier for the hitch to move in all directions, it has spherical axial bearing mount, which makes it perfect for driving on rough roads up to steep hills. The Curt 16130 comes with a short-throw handle that interlocks with the kingpin automatically to lock it in position, and it can lock to prevent theft.
The hitch comes with a ten-year warranty.
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Amazing Features of CURT 16130 Q20
What I Think About The Product
The Curt 16130 Q20 is one of the hitch models that can haul up to 20,000 lbs. It has a nice built, and is well worth a shot. Hooking it up can be a bit tricky, but with the proper approach you can handle this without any problems.
4. CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch
The Curt 16115 E16 hitch comes with a GWT of 16,000 pounds and can survive the vertical load up to 4,000 lbs. That provides you the assurance that you will do a lot with its ability in spite of being an economical option wheel hitch.
For a worry-free and noise-free ride, it runs with an anti-rattle skid plate. The hitch has a dual pivoting head that provides ten degrees of lateral movement, making it very flexible.
It is very versatile as it can easily adapt on unique truck beds, which makes it very versatile with different truck bed wall heights. You can also operate it single-handed easily.
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Interesting Features of Curt 16115 E16
What I Think About The Product
The Curt 16115 E16 is a useful tool that can hitch up your 5th wheel on uneven surfaces. It is reasonable, and inexpensive solution for hauling.
5. B&W RVK3400 Trailer Hitches
The B&W Trailer is helpful that lets you make a slow turn easily. This specific hitch is designed with short bed trucks and needs no rails to gain access to your truck bed when the hitch is not required.
The head of the hitch has four-way pivot system, making it a good option for those who are looking to hitch on different surfaces.
The hitch has three height settings that can make it easier to find the perfect fitment for the 5th wheel trailer. The hitch has powder coating finished to protect it against elements so it can last for years.
What I Think About The Product
The B&W Trailer RVK3400 hitches are very convenient. Since it does not use rails, it means that your bed is very usable each time you are not planning to go on RVing. You remove it quickly without the help of others.
6. Curt Manufacturing CURT 16049 Q25
The Curt 16049 Q25 is a heavy duty fifth-wheel hitch with dual jaw and color-coded lock indicator for great security and safety. Pivoting, self-aligning head and has a lube plate making easy hookup. It includes rail and universal installation kit.
This fifth wheel has a special spherical bearing that lets the head tilt on any directions. The trailer will remain quiet, stable and smooth regardless of the movement. Its head is self-aligning that prevents errors and flaws whenever you are backing the trailer.
The Curt 16049 has dual jaws that cover the kingpin for better connection security. It also reduces the chucking. Constructed from strong carbon steel and tested for safety in accordance with SAE J2638.
This is the recommended extension for your pick-up truck. To ensure a long life and good functionality even in the most strenuous towing conditions it is coated with carbide black powder coat making it more durable.
It has a short-throw handle that self-engaged automatically. The Curt 16049 Q25 also has grease fittings that you can easily access for lubrication. Its coupling indicator informs you of the condition of the connection.
Via Amazon.com
Important Features off Curt 16049 Q25
To learn more about Curt 16049 Q25 see the actual product here:
What I Think About The Product
If you are looking for a fifth wheel hitch that can be pivoted to any direction with ease, this Curt 16049 Q25 is a good choice. Its durability is exceptional and you can be assured that it will last longer.
7. Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch
The Pro Series 20K fifth wheel hitch is designed to work on short beds. Actually, this equipment is recommended for long beds also. It can tow heavy-duty loads easily up to 20,000 pounds. The stability remains. And if you are in tight areas there will be no bumps or jerks each time you tow your trailer or RV.
It is one of the smoothest 5th wheel hitches. It is recommended on any types of road surfaces. The locking system remains attached to the trailer in the most secured manner. The design of this hitch is very practical.
The handle is easy to reach and if you think that you need to spend a big amount for this hitch you are wrong. It is not as expensive as you think it is and offers great value for your money. It produces minimal chucking and easy to unhitch and unlock.
This hitch offers two different levels when referring back to their fifth wheels depending on the GTW rating. The product takes customization to a higher level. Fifth wheel components and adjustable heads are available for better security and stability for whatever you want to tow.
Via Amazon.com
Vital Features of Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch
Learn more about the product and see the actual product here:
What I Think About The Product
This Pro Series is one of the affordable hitches in the market of the fifth wheel and the company offers 10-year limited warranty perfect for a longer haul. We recommend this to those who are looking for an affordable hitch with great features.
Facts About Fifth Wheel Hitches And How it Works
Semi-trucks do not use ball hitches. They depend on a heavy-duty trailer hitch system. It is similar to the towing tool that you can easily connect to your heavy-duty vehicle known as the fifth wheel trailer hitch.
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Connecting the Hitch
These hitches are intended for carrying heavier loads as compared to the basic ball hitch can manage. The trailer’s front edge stretches out over the back bumper of the truck. It is connected to the bed of the car, and not on the back bumper.
If installed correctly, the weight of the trailer presses down between the rear axle and the cab of the pickup. It lets the truck haul a heavy load.
Locking the Hitch
The shape of fifth wheel hitch is similar to a horseshoe. It strengthens the metal rails under the hitch connected to the truck’s frame. Kingpin connects and locks the trailer to the fifth wheel hitch together with a plate that is on top of the hitch plate. But you can move to make a turn.
The fifth wheel hitch plate and the flat plate of the trailer are in constant connection with one another. Every time the trailer is on the move, it slides against one another continuously. Thus, it is essential that both components are well lubricated.
You can watch the entire process here:
What Are the Advantages of Using a Fifth Wheel Hitch
The fifth wheel hitch lets you tow a fifth wheel trailer rather than buying a recreational vehicle. Here are some of the advantages of using a fifth wheel hitch:
Types of Fifth Wheel Hitches
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1. Single Jaw
The mechanism involves a single jaw fifth wheel hitch is similar to a wedge. When it closes, it takes slack out of the connection. This type brings the best jaw to kingpin contact. It is usually found only on tow hitches with GTW of 25,000 pounds or more.
2. Double Jaw
This one offers a quality connection. It works by surrounding the kingpin and then enters the fifth wheel. Once the kingpin slides in and gets contact with the back of the jaw, it snaps closed and locks it in. It is usually used if the GTW is 20,000 to 24,000-pound range.
3. Sliding Bar Jaw
The locking bar or sliding bar hitches are found on the lower capacity fifth wheel hitches. The bar handle is connected to slides inward to make a physical barrier to prevent the kingpin from sliding back. This type of hitch is typically found on under 20,000 pounds.
Tips On Installing A Fifth Wheel Hitch
Things You Need In Installing
Steps In Installing
Things to Consider When Buying a Fifth Wheel Hitch
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Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
Towing capacity differs from one truck to another. It is one of the important stats that you need to consider when choosing a fifth wheel. A good truck can handle up to 15,000 lbs. or more. So, if you have a 15,000 lbs. The fifth wheel then looks for a hitch that can handle this weight.
Keep in mind a fifth wheel weight is always factored when there is nothing on it. Therefore, if you store your AC unit, television and generator the weight of the fifth wheel is increased.
Because of this, it is recommended that you choose a hitch that has a weight of at least 2,000 to 3,000 lbs lower than your car’s towing capacity.
Length of the Truck Bed
This is an important factor to consider since you don’t want your fifth wheel banging into the back or side of your cab as you make the turn.
It's because of this why there are different types of hitches created for longer-bedded or short bed trucks. Make sure to choose the one that fits your truck design.
The Jaws
For trailers more than 25,000 lbs, aside from choosing the best hitch you also need to focus on a single jaw design. The jaw will help you connect the hitch easily and securely so it can handle heavy loads.
You can use the double-jaw hitch to enhance the power and reduce the noise of the trailer as you drive. But if you are facing extreme massive trailers, double-jaw is not a good choice.
The Pivot System
The system will enable your trailer to move forward. It makes dragging the trailer on any road type much easier. But if you will pass bumpy trails be very careful as this hitch does not provide a swiveling option. If you want optimum flexibility, consider the four-pivot system that lets your trailer move sideward without any difficulty.
The Mounting Style
When choosing a fifth wheel hitch don’t forget to consider the mounting style. It is an important factor that connects the trailer and truck securely and seamlessly. Fifth wheel hitches usually use rail systems as a mounting style, but there are some that can be mounted underneath the bed.
At present, you can easily set up with the rail systems. This is because of their efficiency and simplicity in making tough connections, you will not have trouble assembling it.
Deciding Between Fixed Position and Sliding Hitch
Rvers might have difficulties deciding which to choose between the fixed position and sliding hitch. The fixed position will remain stationary in the truck bed, but it will let the truck pivot and make a turn if you have to.
A sliding hitch is capable of adjusting the circumstances of your driving. For instance, if you are trying to drive through a campground, turning can be hard with a fixed position fifth wheel hitch.
If you use a sliding model, slow turns are easier as it can adjust the position of the hitch and the tow vehicle with ease. This sort of turning is ideal for right-angled turns. The disadvantage of this type is the fact that sliding hitches are usually expensive as compared to fixed position hitches.
Which Design to Choose Two Pivot or Four Pivot
Are you going to drive your RV on a smooth ground or on the bumpy one? This is one question you should ask yourself before buying a fifth wheel hitch. Its because the surface usually affects your overall hitching experience.
If you will be driving on paved campgrounds with even surfaces, choose the two pivot hitch. This type of hitch pivots forward and back so you can easily hitch up your fifth wheel.
If you will drive your RV on a beaten path, then you will be hitching on uneven ground. If this is the case, the four pivot that pivots back and forward and sides to side will make hitching much simpler.
Popular Terms for Fifth Wheels
Fifth Wheel Travel Towing Tips and Tricks
There are things you need to install the hitch correctly. The fifth wheel hitch needs to be appropriately bolted on the truck bed and into the truck frame.
In attaching the fifth wheel hitch, you need to have a set of tracks. It will secure the hitch and the trailer securely. You need to know when buying the hitch if it includes the rails or you need to buy it separately.
There are two types of rails that you might be needing, the universal fit and custom. The custom rails are used for pre-existing factory drilled holes on the vehicle’s frame. It makes the installation simpler, faster, and frustration free. Not all cars have rails designed only for it. It is because of this why you need universal rails.
Brackets
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Almost all new hitches in the market come with universal rails. Find easy to install brackets. You can find a wide variety of brackets made for particular trucks.
They are placed on the sides of the frame under the truck bed utilizing the existing holes on the frame.
There is no need to drill holes in the frame. To line up with the holes on the top of the bracket, you just need to drill holes into the truck bed.
Aside from the accessories, you also need to keep in mind the following safety considerations:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all the fifth wheel hitches available in the market the same?
All the fifth wheel hitches have the same function. They differ on the weight capacities, a method in installing it in the truck and the features offered.
Which is better gooseneck or fifth wheel?
Gooseneck trailer slides over a ball hitch in the truck bed. The fifth wheel trailer connects to a pickup truck with the use of a hinged plate hitch. It is the same type of hitch used in semi trucks. The only advantage of a gooseneck trailer is its stability.
Can I use a fifth wheel hitch in a short bed truck?
Yes, you can use fifth wheel hitch in a short bed truck without the need of a slider hitch. It is also now possible for trucks with beds shorter than six feet to tow a fifth wheel trailer.
Can I remove a fifth wheel hitch from the trailer so I can use the bed?
Most fifth wheel hitches need rails to be installed in the bed of the truck that will hinder the bed a little bit when a hitch is not there, but the Companion will give you a completely empty truck bed.
Is installing a fifth wheel hitch takes longer than you expect it?
Normally it takes around 6 hours to install the fifth wheel trailer hitch. Some depend on the installer’s skill and experience. As soon as the installation kit is completed setting up the hitch in the rails will only take a few minutes.
What is the purpose of using adapters for towing a fifth wheel trailer with a gooseneck hitch?
You can use adapters to tow a fifth-wheel trailer but you have a gooseneck trailer hitch. Some of the adapters are attached to the gooseneck ball or use the ball hole of the gooseneck hitch that enables you to hook up your 5th wheel trailer without the need to change it. Other adapters installed to the trailer, enables you to attach it directly to the gooseneck ball in your truck
Safety Considerations
When comparing the different fifth wheel hitches in the market, there are lots of neat and unique features to choose from. Before you choose the best hitch to haul your trailer, you need to keep in mind these safety considerations.
You wouldn’t want to risk your safety and the possible damage that may occur to your trailer or tow vehicle.
Buy a hitch that is compatible with your trailer. Make sure that it can handle the weight of your trailer. If you ignore this it might cause accident and injury.
Ideally, you would pick the highest rating your truck can handle so that you don’t cut yourself short in the coming days but stay away on hitches that are rated higher than the rating of your vehicle. There are lots of reasons why you should not. First, it means you have to spend money on unnecessary things, but worst the expectation that the truck can tow more safely if you consider hitch rating in the future.
Choosing the right fifth wheel will depend on your lifestyle, needs and personal preferences. The weight, hnewing tanks and length were three important features you should focus on when buying a fifth wheel.
Assessing your needs about those features will help you shortlist the options you will have when you start RV shopping. This is the best starting point. Once you have done that, it is up to you to decide the color scheme, layout and additional features you like most.
Final Verdict
You would choose the best rating your vehicle can manage so that you do not cut yourself short in the future. But stay away from hitches that are rated higher as compared to the vehicle’s rating.
One reason why you should not do it is that you might be spending your money on the wrong product. Hope this guide was able to help you find the right product for your vehicle.
Further Reading : How to Install a Trailer Hitch in a Dodge Grand Caravan