Trailer Hitch for the Back of a 2002 Wildcat 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

Hi I have a 2002 wildcat 5th wheel made by forest river and I want to tow my boat behind it . Is the bumper strong enough to put hitch on tung weight a little more than a hundred pounds. If no what should l put on it .thank you.

asked by: Scott L

Expert Reply:

You would have to check the literature that came with the trailer or check with the trailer manufacturer to determine if the bumper is rated for towing and has a high enough capacity. Usually bumper mounted hitches on a trailer are for accessories only; such as a bike rack.

What I recommend is a frame mounted hitch such as # 13703 because it will be safer since it will be attached to the frame. This hitch is the most versatile since it fits frame widths of 22 to 72 inches, can be welded or bolted on, and fits box, C-channel, and I-Beam frames. Welding should be done by a professional welder.

I have linked the instructions so that you can look over them to determine if this hitch is a good fit. Also it is important to note that in some states it is illegal to tow a trailer behind another trailer so you will want to check the laws where you will be traveling ahead of time.

The other issue is wiring. You would have to wire in a vehicle side 4-Way, # 18252, to the tail light wiring on the back of the 5th wheel. If there are too many lights in the system then it could blow the tow package fuses on the truck. Switching over to LED lights would solve that problem. I have linked the LED lights that we carry.

expert reply by: Michael H