Should The Jaws Of A Reese 16K 5th Wheel Hitch Stay Latched Open When Uncoupling

Question:

I have a reese 16K round tube slider hitch, to unload my camper from my from my truck I need to people one to hold the bar to release the jaws on the hitch and one drive the truck away? should the jaws lock open when unloading???

asked by: William P

Expert Reply:

Hi William,

The jaws of the Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Round Tube Slider # RP30075 should lock open when you pull the handle out. In the video I've attached below you can see Jeff lock the jaws open around the 3 minute mark. If your handle is no longer latching open then you'd likely be looking at replacing the head of the hitch with # RP30047A.

Typically you can't get replacement parts for 5th wheel hitch heads because the manufacturers don't want the liability of consumers adjusting or replacing the inner workings of the hitch head but it wouldn't hurt to give Reese a call and see if they can still provide you with something or possibly warranty out the hitch head for you.

I will also add that if you're parked in a way that's adding more pressure onto the hitch you'll also run into issues trying to uncouple it. Conditions won't always be perfect but the closer you can get to level ground the easier it will be.

expert reply by: Kevin C

William P.

3/6/2024

Hey Kevin the hitch I was put on my truck about a year now but part #30047 is the one that my truck but looks like I should have a #30075?? Could the RV dealer sale me the wrong hitch??

Kevin C.

3/6/2024

@WilliamP The Reese # RP30075 is the same hitch as the # RP30047 but with roller legs so that you can gain additional turning clearance when making tight turns with a truck that has a bed smaller than 8'. Both of these hitches use the same head # RP30047A. If you have a bed length shorter than 8' then the slider version # RP30075 is the best option for your setup. If you do have an 8' bed then the slider isn't necessary but could still be used in the fixed towing position, it's just a bit more expensive so it's a bit of a waste if you aren't going to use the sliding function.