Can I Install a Trailer Hitch on my 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

HI: I own a 28 ft. 2001 glendale golden eagle and would like to install a rear hitch to carry a basket type carrier. It would have my inflatable boat deflated which weighs approx. 90 lbs. The manual states that no more than 100 lbs, should be loaded on the bumper and that I should not tow anything behind the trailer. Would it be ok to have a hitch installed for the purpose I need it for ? Thanks.

asked by: Rick

Expert Reply:

You can certainly have a trailer hitch installed on your 2001 Glendale Golden Eagle, but there are a few things that you will want to consider before going this route. First, since your trailer was not designed with a trailer hitch by the manufacturer, an exact weight capacity would be very hard to determine. Trailer hitches designed for use on RVs and trailers, like the Curt Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch, # 13703, are universal fit items so it is up to the installer to ensure that they are installed in a secure manner to achieve maximum capacity.

This Curt hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs, which is significantly more than your bumper, but you will want to make sure that it is securely attached to your trailer frame. This hitch can be bolted or welded to the frame. I recommend this hitch because it has the most adjustability as far as width is concerned. It will fit frames from 22 inches wide up to 72 inches wide (outside to outside). Be sure to measure the frame width on your trailer. Also, this hitch will fit box frames, C-channel frames and I-beam frames. I don't have a chassis schematic for your trailer, so I don't know what type of frame it has, but this hitch will cover all of the different styles.

The next thing that you will want to consider is that hitch mounted cargo carriers are not tested or rated for use on the back of a trailer. There is more movement and bouncing at the back of a trailer compared to a car or truck due to the distance from the rear axle. This puts more stress on the cargo carrier. If you are going to go this route, be sure to look for a cargo carrier that has a fixed shank like the Curt 20 x 48 Cargo Carrier, # C18110. You will want to avoid using a cargo carrier with a folding shank because the hinge is a weak point in the system that can break with excessive movement.

Finally, I strongly recommend using some sort of support strap or stabilization strap like part # 18050 with the cargo carrier. This will help support some of the weight from the trailer hitch and it is recommended by Curt for any non-trailer loads such as a cargo carrier.

expert reply by: John H