A hitch allows your fifth wheel to leave your property. It connects the camper to your favorite tow vehicle. This allows you to enjoy safe road trips. However, not all types of hitches suit your budget, lifestyle, RV, and tow vehicle.
Want to make your towing straightforward and safer and feel more in control and secure? Pick the right 5th wheel hitch. This comprehensive guide explains the most common fifth wheel hitch types. It allows you to discover the right match for your unique towing needs.
Read further to discover more.
Fifth Wheel Hitch Types
Fifth wheel hitch types vary in terms of how they connect to the camper’s kingpin. Depending on your personal preferences and what you need, you may decide the right hitch type over another.
Sliding Hitch Types
Do you have a short-bed truck? A sliding hitch type is the perfect option for you. Sliding hitch types are, in most cases, used in short-bed trucks. There is a higher chance of the 5th wheel colliding with the back window of your truck.
A sharp turn usually creates more distance between the truck cab and the 5th wheel. So, what does the sliding fifth wheel hitch do? It moves backward by sliding towards the tailgate. After that, it smoothly returns to its regular position.
Do you have variable loads? Or do you like changing trailer types? A sliding hitch can be a perfect match. It helps transfer the weight to or from the steer axle.
Fifth Wheel Hitch Types
Fifth wheel hitch types vary in terms of how they connect to the camper’s kingpin. Depending on your personal preferences and what you need, you may decide the right hitch type over another.
Sliding Hitch Types
Do you have a short-bed truck? A sliding hitch type is the perfect option for you. Sliding hitch types are, in most cases, used in short-bed trucks. There is a higher chance of the 5th wheel colliding with the back window of your truck.
A sharp turn usually creates more distance between the truck cab and the 5th wheel. So, what does the sliding fifth wheel hitch do? It moves backward by sliding towards the tailgate. After that, it smoothly returns to its regular position.
Do you have variable loads? Or do you like changing trailer types? A sliding hitch can be a perfect match. It helps transfer the weight to or from the steer axle.
Fifth Wheel Hitch Types
Fifth wheel hitch types vary in terms of how they connect to the camper’s kingpin. Depending on your personal preferences and what you need, you may decide the right hitch type over another.
Sliding Hitch Types
Do you have a short-bed truck? A sliding hitch type is the perfect option for you. Sliding hitch types are, in most cases, used in short-bed trucks. There is a higher chance of the 5th wheel colliding with the back window of your truck.
A sharp turn usually creates more distance between the truck cab and the 5th wheel. So, what does the sliding fifth wheel hitch do? It moves backward by sliding towards the tailgate. After that, it smoothly returns to its regular position.
Do you have variable loads? Or do you like changing trailer types? A sliding hitch can be a perfect match. It helps transfer the weight to or from the steer axle.
Stationary Hitch Types
Stationary hitch types are a perfect selection for use cases where the kingpin setting of the semi-trailer, vehicle length, and axle loading are constant across the fleet.
These hitch types are lighter than sliding ones. They offer much-needed maintenance simplicity and greater weight savings. With greater simplicity, you can significantly reduce operating costs.
Additional Fifth Wheel Hitches Worth Consideration
Sliding and stationary hitch types are the most common. However, there’re several other types that you can consider. They include:
- 2-way pivot head: It only moves front to back, making it ideal for traveling up slopes. Your truck can ascend without straining the hitch before the 5th wheel starts going uphill.
- 4-way pivot head: It moves front-to-back and also side to side. If your journey involves uneven surfaces or you’re boondocking, a 4-way pivot head hitch is a perfect choice. It provides a range of movements.
- Single jaw: It has a straightforward one-grab connection. With fewer parts compared to the pivot head hitch, it offers more strength.
- Double jaw: It has 2x the power of a single jaw hitch. That means it can handle more weight. The connection is strong, and the ride is effortless. However, it doesn’t pivot. More road space is required to make turns.
You must have discovered the perfect 5th wheel hitch for your unique needs and requirements. If you’re after the best fifth wheel, find a top-rated provider. The best providers have a range of options for you.
