Troubleshooting a Sticking Handle On a Reese 16k 5th Wheel Hitch
Question:
My new 16k hitch only latches when bumped by trailer coupler. It isnt possible to move the coupler handle by hand if the trailer isnt present. Is this normal and can it be fixed?
asked by: Don N
Expert Reply:
The 16K Fifth Wheel Hitch by Reese, item # 30047, has a groove in the handle that a latch rotates into. If the latch is not rotated toward the rear of the truck then the handle will not move and hitching should not be possible. If the latch was not rotated and hitching was attempted then some of the handle parts could have been bent. During normal hitching you should not move the handle out. You should back the truck slowly into the trailer and allow the hitch to move the handle out. Once the truck is backed into the trailer the handle should move to the open position, the jaws of the hitch will spring closed and the handle should return to the closed position.
I would remove the head and turn it upside down. You will then be able to see all of the pivot points and handle parts. Check to be sure none of the parts are bent or broken. If all of the parts seem to be in good condition then you should clean all of the moving parts and pivot points with a spray lubricant and get them working freely. Finally, grease the head with white lithium grease and work the handle until it moves freely as it did when new.
If new parts are needed you can find them on our 5W Replacement Parts page (see link).
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Aftermarket Below Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 13-1/2 - 17 Inch Tall
- Reese
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Demco 5th Wheel Rail Adapter for Nissan Titan XD OEM 5th Wheel Towing Prep Package - 21,000 lbs
- Shop: Curt A20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Nissan Titan XD Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: screen door
- Search Results: replacement screen door
- Search Results: 22028~093
- Shop: Screen Defender Screen Protector for Lippert RV Entry Doors - Fits Doors 26" Wide
- Shop: RV Tail Light - Stop, Tail, Turn - Rectangle - Red Lens - Passenger Side - Black Base
- Search Results: c16722
- Search Results: lube plate
- Video: Reese Fifth Wheel RP83002 Review
- Video: Lippert Components Fifth Wheel LC286160 Review
- Shop: Lippert Never Fail Whisper Disk Lube Plate for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 11-1/2" Diameter
- Shop: Curt Lube Plate for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 12" Diameter
- Shop: Lube Plate for Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 10" Diameter
- Q&A: Turn Signals on Trailer Not Working When Running Lights are On
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: rp30047
- Search Results: curt adjustable hitch
- Video: Choosing the Best Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Video: Manufacturer Review - Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Q&A: How to Determine Correct Height Setting for 5th Wheel Hitch
- Video: B and W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch with Slider Installation - 2022 GMC Sierra 2500
- Article: Sidewinder with Rotating Turret for Short Bed Pickups
- Article: Ram Trailer Tow Prep Package
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
on Fifth Wheel Hitch
