Reese Signature Series 18K Fifth Wheel Hitch has 1/2 Inch of Movement at Pivot Pin
Question:
Signature Series 18K Fifth Wheel Hitch I purchased the subject hitch assembly in 2008. Over that time the hitch has developed about 1/2inch slop in the pivot pin. With the trailer mounted it slams back and forth upon acceleration and braking. Is this normal or indicative of pending failure?
asked by: Rick
Expert Reply:
You may need to go back and check that all of the nuts and bolts on the head are properly torqued down. Considering the amount of forces involved it is only a matter of time before something needs to be tightened down again.
It could also be that there has always been movement but over time the hitch has lost lubrication and needs to be re-lubricated. You can follow the maintenance and before each trip sections of the linked instructions for that. The instructions are on the Elite Series hitches but they are essentially the same as the Signature Series hitches.
Also make sure your trailer king pin is not excessively worn down and that the hitch jaw moves freely and locks.
