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Choosing a Hitch for Your Fifth Wheel

May. 31 2024 Ownership Tips By Lakeside RV Sales

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Before you can enjoy adventures with your fifth wheel, you'll need to transport your RV to your destination. You've got a tow vehicle, but you'll also need the right type of hitch to connect up your fifth wheel. We've created the following buyer's guide to help you determine which hitch best suits your needs. 

The Weight Potential

Start by considering what your tow vehicle is able to handle. Check the owner's manual to see the maximum towing capacity. Then figure out the gross trailer weight of your fifth wheel, which is how much it weighs. You'll want to shop for a hitch that at bare minimum meets the weight of your fifth wheel without exceeding your tow vehicle's rating. It's even better if you get a hitch that exceeds the weight of your trailer.

The Truck Features

Some trucks already come with metal rails or pucks, which means you'll need something that is compatible with those pre-built anchorings. Some trucks have a plastic liner, which means you'll need to cut a hole in it to accommodate the coupler. It also means you won't be able to use a slider hitch.

Some trucks already have holes drilled into them in order to accommodate custom rails (that usually come from the manufacturer). These are easy and simple to install. If your truck doesn't already come with these rails, you'll need universal rails to attach the coupling to the truck bed. These are more challenging to install, but they are able to handle a wider range of vehicles than custom rails.

The Length of the Truck Bed

You'll also want to consider the length of your tow vehicle's bed. Short-bed trucks are at greater risk of suffering a collision between the trailer and the truck during a turn. If you have a short-bed truck, consider getting an extended pin box to help improve your turning radius.

Are you still in the market for a fifth wheel? Come visit Lakeside RV Sales in Anderson, South Carolina to see our selection of fifth wheels for sale. We also proudly serve those in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina.