How Much Side-to-Side Movement of 5th Wheel Trailer is Acceptable When Using Curt Hitch # C16521

Question:

I recently bought this hitch and was wondering how much side to side movement there should be? My trailer has a medium pinbox with about 8.5inch from skid plate to the bottom of the trailer overhang and when I turn into gas stations or other driveways that have dips or off camber bumps, one side of the trailer overhang will get uncomfortably close - less than an inch with 7inch clearance between bed rails and trailer overhang to the bed rails. Is this normal and should I have gotten a different hitch? I really like the height this hitch goes...I have it set at 18.5inch

asked by: Eric

Expert Reply:

It is important for any trailer to be level when hitched, whether a bumper-pull or a 5th wheel, and it is also necessary to have enough clearance at the bed rails for the trailer's overhang. The linked diagram shows the recommended minimum clearances for a 5th wheel a the bed rails, tailgate and bumper.

Because the Curt hitch # C16521 has a cushioned head, it will tend to provide more sideways movement than a non-cushioned type.

It may be possible to increase the height of the trailer for more clearance, by adjusting the height of your pin box on the trailer's mounting wings and by installing an axle over-under kit to raise the overall height, but this will have the effect of raising the trailer's center of gravity, which can degrade handling. For example, if your axle is 3 inches diameter, the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, # K71-385-00, would be a good choice and if your axle is 2-3/8 inch diameter you could use the Over-Under Kit, # K71-384-00.

If you have room to lower the pin box's mounting position on the trailer wings this may give you a little extra breathing room without taking the trailer too far out of level.

expert reply by: Adam R