There are many types of 5th wheel hitches that are excellent in quality and capable of securing trailers for towing. The hitch can be attached to any standard pickup truck so that a large or small trailer can be towed across town or across the country. Choosing the best fifth wheel hitch will make it possible to tow a trailer over smooth and rugged terrain without having to worry about anything becoming loose or detached.
The type of hitch that should be chosen will depend on the size and weight of the trailer being towed along with the vehicle that is doing the hauling. A hitch coupler can be attached to the frame of a truck by bolting or welding it in place. For RV pulling, a king pin RV fifth wheel hitch makes it easier for the trailer to pivot while en route.
A slider fifth wheel hitch is considered to be the best fifth wheel hitch for short bed trucks so that tight turns can be made without the trailer and cab colliding and potentially causing a jackknife situation. If a hitch locking leveler is purchased, it is advisable to buy an extra lock to make sure that everything stays attached while in tow. For a truck that already has a system in place to haul a gooseneck trailer, an adapter can be attached to pull a fifth wheel.
Best 5th Wheel Hitches Reviews
- B & W RVK3300 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch
This model often tops fifth wheel hitch reviews because of its reliability. The dual jaws can stay in better contact with the kingpin. The integrated cam-action handle and two-piece design can be used to install and release the hitch with ease.
- PullRite 2900 SuperGlide
Ideal for short bed trucks, this is one of the most reliable 5th wheel hitches on the market. The 14-inch slide gives the hitch more flexibility when putting the tow vehicle in reverse or when rounding corners. The hitch’s patented tubes are also designed to make maneuvering with a trailer easier.
Anderson Hitches 3220 Aluminum 5th Wheel Connector – The lightness and simple design of this model have earned it the distinction of being the best 5th wheel hitch among many consumers. At just 35 pounds, this model is also one of the lightest options. No grease is required for the coupler, which makes it easier to perform adjustments and allows for more swivel movement.
- Reese Pro-Series 30056
A rail and slide bar system are included to facilitate the tow process. This fifth wheel hitch is built to tow up to 15,000 pounds. The four-way pivoting head allows for a side tilt of five degrees to make hooking up the hitch less burdensome. Many consumers have also found this option to be one of the most affordable types available.
- Reese Elite Series 30871
This model can tow 26,500 pounds and is a great choice for a heavy duty fifth wheel hitch. Its total pin weight capacity is 6,625 pounds. A 90-degree wiring harness is also included to make pulling a large trailer more safe. Extra stability is provided by the hitch’s wide footprint and side-to-side 4-degree pivot.
- Curt 16115
For lighter trailers, the Curt 16115 fifth wheel trailer hitch can haul up to 16,000 pounds. The dual axles can pivot 10 degrees for better lateral movements. The coupling is more secured thanks to the automatic locking mechanism. A single handle is included and all that is needed for operation. The hitch is also designed for easy mounting to all industry-standard base rails.
- Curt 16245
Equipped to haul up to 24,000 pounds, this model consists of a spherical axial bearing that allows for easier head movement and smoother pulling. The coupling indicator has 3 position settings and can be seen from the vehicle that is doing the pulling. The 360-degree contact with the kingpin is made possible by the dual jaws.
How To Choose A Fifth Wheel Hitch
With the many different designs and settings, browsing through all the trailer and camper 5th wheel hitches may seem like a daunting task for some people. Buying the right fifth wheel tow hitch will be easier when the following tips are kept in mind:
- Tow Capacities
It is important to know the exact weight of the truck that will do the tow work so that a compatible hitch can be purchased. Getting a hitch that is not built to tow a certain weight can cause the trailer to separate from the vehicle while en route and create massive hazards for other drivers. Most hitches on the market are built to tow anywhere from 15,000 to upwards of 26,000 pounds.
- Jaw Type
Some consumers believe that a single can hold the kingpin in a better fixed position, but double jaws can still provide a reliable connection. A sliding bar jar is usually ideal for when lower tow capacity is required.
- Hitch Weight
Heavier hitches are sometimes more durable and can cost more (which is usually the case with auto sliding hitches). A lighter hitch will be easier to position and attach but may not be as dependable for pulling larger trailers that are especially heavy.
- Pivot Head
To make driving up and down steep inclines possible, most fifth wheel hitches feature four-way pivot heads. However, some are also able to pivot left to right in a side-to-side motion for greater movement and better handling when driving on uneven roads.
- Rail Set
For hitches to be attached, a set of receiver rails will be needed. Some hitches come with rails while others require them to be purchased separately. Rail kits include all the parts that are needed for trailers to slide onto the backs of trucks and complete the installation.
- Additional Parts
Other parts may be needed to ensure a secure tow. Quick install brackets can be used for a more convenient option rather than the universal brackets that come with most rail systems. Plastic bed liner adapter pucks can keep bed liners from wearing down. A wiring harness is useful for connecting rear lights.
Pulling a trailer with a truck can be accomplished with the right fifth wheel hitch. With all of the great models that are out there, finding the right selection is easy.