What to Look for in Fifth Wheel Hitch Jaw and Pivoting Head Types
Question:
Hi Do you have any articles that explain the different fifth wheel locking jaws? And which ones one is best. Do you also have a article or video that explains the different fifth wheel hitch features such as pivoting vs fixed ect?
asked by: Scott C
Expert Reply:
We don't have any videos or articles that cover exactly what you are looking for and since the jaw designs have gotten somewhat different over the years between one-piece, two piece, and sliding bars etc. it's hard to boil it down to consistent characteristics as they all can work well if designed for tight clearances. Also some of the fixed and pivoting hitches use slightly different terminology to create a similar situation where one hitch manufacturer might say it's pivoting and another might call it a different thing.
The example I'll use is the Curt A16 # C16120 which has a two piece jaw...but it's a two piece jaw that interlocks and provides a tight 360 degree contact with the king pin so it's very tight, quiet, and safe. The head is fully articulating too which means it will pivot around as needed to provide a quiet ride quality as well as make for easier connection/disconnection.
Another option that has tight clearances was the Reese Elite that used a single hook jaw but it's not made anymore. Essentially now everything is a dual jaw setup that's nicer and on the opposite end is the slide bar which allows a lot of movement. B and W makes a really nice dual jaw setup as well like with the Patriot # BWRVK3200. Many consider this to be one of the quietest hitches out there so it would work well too.
Products Referenced in This Question
B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 16 - 19 Inch Tall
- B and W
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Cushioned Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 13 - 17 Inch Tall
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Replacement RV ladder for 2007 Monaco Diplomat
- Q&A: 10k Dexter Replacement Hub for a 8-415
- Q&A: How Much Upward Bend Should Trailer Axle Have
- Q&A: Is Bow in 3,500 lb Trailer Axle Enough Camber for Loaded and Unloaded Trailers
- Q&A: Trailer Suspension Hanger Kit for Slipper Springs and 38 inch Wheelbase
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Replacement Hub Needed for Lippert 122093 Hub on 5,200 lbs Axle
- Q&A: Which Lift Kit Fits 2010 Forest River R-Pod 172 with Lippert 3,500 Torsion Axle
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Sidewinder with Rotating Turret for Short Bed Pickups
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
on Fifth Wheel Hitch
