Metal to Metal Noise While Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer Coming from the Jaws of the 5th Wheel Hitch

Question:

Hi I have 2004 GMC 6.6 HD truck Have installed the unit all OK ! while towing I can hear a metal to metal noise and seems to come from the jaw area of the 5th wheel ?- is there any adjustment that can be done or any sujestion?

asked by: Mike B

Expert Reply:

If this noise occurs during starts and stops or any time there may be back and forth movement of the trailer then it is normal to get some metal to metal contact as the trailer king pin bumps around in the jaws of the hitch. The double jaw design of the Reese 5th wheel hitch, # RP30051, is secure but it is not so tight that it will eliminate all movement.

You also want to make sure the trailer is not high hitched. This means that the king pin is not fully seated in the hitch. When hooking up, you will want the hitch pointed down and the trailer pinbox skid plate slightly lower than the hitch skid plate. I have included a picture that illustrates this for you.

Once hitched up, make sure that the jaws are fully closed and locked around the smaller diameter part of the king pin. Also make sure that you are using the proper grease or lube plate, # RP83002, on the hitch skid plate.

expert reply by: Michael H