What is Purpose of Rear Hitch Installed on 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

I have a new highlander light 5th wheeler with a hitch on the back. What is this for and why do they say it voids warrenty if towing a vehical behind it.

asked by: Larry G

Expert Reply:

Trailer makers typically install hitch receivers on their 5th wheel and travel trailers to enable owners to use items like an RV-approved bike rack, such as the Yakima OnRamp Bike Platform Rack # Y36FR. Not all hitch accessories can be used on trailers or motorhomes but this particular Swagman carrier can be used on ANY vehicle, car, truck, van, pop-up camper, 5th wheel or motorhome. This sturdy rack is unique in this respect.

Using a bike rack in the trailer's hitch will put perhaps 150-lbs total tongue weight load on the hitch. This is a low enough weight that there is no risk of damage to the trailer frame. But if you were to tandem tow a second trailer behind your 5th wheel, say a 2000-lb boat/boat trailer combination, then it would be possible to stress the 5th wheel's frame and this is what the warranty warning pertains to.

expert reply by: Adam R