Towing Fifth Wheel Trailer With Sliding Fifth Wheel Hitch Slid Rearward in Maneuvering Position
Question:
Can I tow my 5th wheel camper in the maneuvering position? Is it safe to do that?
asked by: Angie E
Expert Reply:
If you're talking about low speed maneuvering like in a campground, the answer would be yes. If you're talking about driving on the highway or on public roads at speeds above what you'd drive on a parking lot, the answer would be no, it would not be safe.
When the fifth wheel slider is slid rearward, the pin weight of the fifth wheel is applied to the truck bed behind the truck axle which would lighten the weight on the front axle of the truck (like a teeter totter) which would greatly reduce the front braking performance and steering response of the truck. Since the front truck brakes do most of the work, this could be very dangerous.
If you don't have enough clearance between the rear of your truck cab and the front of the trailer loft to make reasonable turns when traveling, you might want to consider with a Sidewinder replacement pin box. The Sidewinder adds 22 inches of clearance, and in many cases will allow 90 degree turns. The Sidewinder is a pin-box specific item, in order to recommend the correct application for you, I'd need to know the manufacturer and part number of your existing pin box. This information should be located on a sticker or plate somewhere on the pin box. You can simply reply to this email.
I'll link you to our Sidewinder article, where you can find more information.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Head with Crossmember for Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - 16,000 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Head
- Head Assembly
- Reese
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