Can a 20K 5th Wheel Hitch be Used to Tow a 20K Toy Hauler

Question:

Is it safe to use a hitch that has exactly the same weight rating as the loaded capacity of a trailer? For example, my capacity for my toy hauler is 20k...can I use a 20k rated hitch?

asked by: Eric

Expert Reply:

Great question!

Although a 5th wheel hitch rated for 20K can tow up to 20K we highly recommend using a 5th wheel hitch that is rated about 1K - 2K over the GVWR of your 5th wheel trailer. This gives you a safety margin and will help keep your hitch from prematurely wearing down from normal use. The only time you would be able to safely use the 20K hitch is if you didn't load your trailer up to the 20K capacity.

If your toy hauler is 20K then I recommend going with either the B&W Companion # BWRVK3305 which fits the puck system on the 2017 Ford F-450 that you put in for vehicle info or the Curt Q25 # C16265 and Base Rail Kit # BWRVK2402 if you don't have the factory pucks. Both of these hitches are rated for 25K and feature dual jaws for a secure 360 degree connection to your king pin.

The reason I don't recommend the same 5th wheel hitch for both options is that they are only available for either situation so the option simply isn't there.

If you don't already have a 7-Way in the bed of your F-450 then I also recommend installing the Hopkins # 41157 to make connecting and disconnecting your trailer much easier.

I have attached review videos for both options for you to reference.