Top Rated 3 Best 5th Wheel Hitch

Ready to upgrade your towing experience with the best 5th wheel hitch? This guide will help you navigate the myriad of options available, ensuring you select a hitch that provides superior control and stability. Find the perfect fit for your truck and trailer, and enhance your towing safety and efficiency!

Best Choice (Top Rating and Best Selling One)
B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitch RVK3500
- Superior maneuverability with patented design
- Durable construction with robust materials
- Adjustable components for customized fit
- Easy installation and removal process
- Smooth and quiet towing experience
CURT 16115 Black Wheel Hitch
- Easy installation and clear instructions
- Secure locking mechanism with clear indicators
- Heavy-duty build for optimal durability
- Excellent value compared to competitors
- Simple hook and unhook process
Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Heavy-duty construction for maximum durability
- Easy installation with a secure fit
- High-capacity towing for large trailers
- Smooth, stable ride with reduced noise
- Compatible with most fifth wheel rails

How to Choose the Best 5th Wheel Hitch

Choosing the best 5th wheel hitch is essential for safe and efficient towing. A high-quality 5th wheel hitch provides stability, control, and ease of use, making your towing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the best 5th wheel hitch for your needs.

Understanding 5th Wheel Hitches

A 5th wheel hitch is a specialized type of hitch mounted in the bed of a pickup truck. It is used to tow large trailers, such as RVs, by connecting to a kingpin on the trailer.

This setup distributes weight more evenly and provides better stability compared to traditional bumper hitches.

Types of 5th Wheel Hitches

Sliding Hitches

Sliding hitches are ideal for short-bed trucks. They allow the hitch to slide back when making sharp turns, preventing the trailer from hitting the cab of the truck. This feature is essential for maneuvering in tight spaces.

Fixed Hitches

Fixed hitches are stationary and do not slide. They are suitable for long-bed trucks where there is enough clearance between the cab and the trailer. Fixed hitches are generally simpler and more affordable than sliding hitches.

Single Jaw Hitches

Single jaw hitches have a single jaw mechanism that wraps around the kingpin, providing a secure connection. They are known for their strength and stability, reducing movement and noise during towing.

Double Jaw Hitches

Double jaw hitches use two jaws to clamp around the kingpin. This design offers an even tighter grip, enhancing stability and reducing play. Double jaw hitches are excellent for heavy-duty towing.

Key Features to Look For

Towing Capacity

Ensure the hitch you choose has a towing capacity that matches or exceeds the weight of your trailer. Check the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer and compare them with the hitch’s specifications.

Height Adjustment

Height adjustment is crucial for leveling your trailer. Look for a hitch with multiple height settings to ensure the trailer is level when connected to your truck. A level trailer provides better stability and handling during towing.

Ease of Installation

Choose a hitch that is easy to install and remove. Some hitches come with a drop-in design that fits into the existing mounting points in your truck bed.

Pivoting Head

A hitch with a pivoting head allows for smoother towing by accommodating the movement of the trailer on uneven terrain. This feature helps reduce stress on the hitch and improves overall ride comfort.

Locking Mechanism

A secure locking mechanism is vital to prevent accidental disconnection. Look for hitches with robust locking systems that ensure the kingpin stays firmly in place.

Safety features like visual indicators can also help confirm that the hitch is properly locked.

How to Install a 5th Wheel Hitch

Prepare Your Truck

Ensure your truck bed is clean and free of debris. If your truck does not already have mounting rails, you will need to install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Position the Hitch

Place the hitch in the bed of your truck, aligning it with the mounting rails. Ensure it is positioned correctly and centered between the wheel wells.

Secure the Hitch

Attach the hitch to the mounting rails using the provided hardware. Tighten all bolts and nuts to the specified torque settings to ensure a secure fit.

Adjust the Height

Adjust the height of the hitch to match the kingpin height of your trailer. Most hitches have multiple height settings to accommodate different trailers.

Connect the Trailer

Back your truck up to the trailer and align the kingpin with the hitch. Lower the trailer onto the hitch and ensure the kingpin engages properly. Lock the hitch and check the connection by pulling forward gently.

Tips for Safe Towing

Perform Regular Maintenance: Inspect your hitch regularly for wear and tear. Lubricate moving parts and check for loose bolts.
Check Connections: Before every trip, ensure all connections are secure, including the hitch, kingpin, and safety chains.
Drive Safely: Practice safe driving habits, such as maintaining a safe following distance, reducing speed on curves, and avoiding sudden maneuvers.
Use Proper Braking: Ensure your trailer’s brakes are functioning correctly and adjusted properly. Consider using a brake controller for better control.

Conclusion

Choosing the best 5th wheel hitch involves considering factors such as towing capacity, height adjustment, ease of installation, pivoting head, and locking mechanism.

By selecting a hitch that matches your needs and following proper installation and maintenance practices, you can ensure safe and efficient towing.

Invest in a high-quality hitch to enjoy a smooth and reliable towing experience for years to come.