How to Alleviate Clicking Noise When Towing With Reese 18k Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch 30081
Question:
I own a 07 GMC 3500HD LB 4/4 Diesel PU. Theres a clicking noise were the king pin fits into the head. It seems that the opening dia. after the claw closes is larger than the pin on the trailer.When I pull forward and when I come to a stop is when I hear the noise.Is there something I can do to fix the problem? Thanks for any information you can give me.
asked by: John T
Expert Reply:
I spoke with my contact at Reese about the clicking noise you have been experiencing while towing, and they did confirm that the locking jaw is made to have some slack or play to allow for the pin to rotate, so it should not fit too tightly around the king pin.
To alleviate the clicking sound, the best approach would be to adjust your brake controller to ensure that the braking on your 2007 GMC Sierra and the braking on your trailer are as closely synced up as they can be. When you press the brake pedal in your truck, the king pin on your trailer is going to move forward slightly (which causes the clicking sound when metal strikes metal) because there is a small delay between the time your truck brakes engage, and the time when your trailer brakes engage. The closer your truck and trailer braking is synced, the less the delay between the brakes engaging and the forward motion of the king pin would lessen.
I would also recommend making sure that the retainer pin is properly seated through the handle, and that you do not see any space between the hitch head and the plate on your king pin.
It is also a good idea to make sure that your loaded trailer pin weight is not exceeding the fifth wheel hitch pin weight rating of 4500 pounds.
