Hitch Recommendations for 2014 Chevy Silverado Towing 7K Fifth Wheel Trailer

Question:

I am looking at buying a used 5th wheel with a dry weight of 5k and loaded of 7k. I notice the lightest 5th hitch you have is 16k. Do you have a complete kit that is rated lighter than 16k. 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 6-1/2 foot bed.

asked by: Scott D

Expert Reply:

The lowest-rated fifth wheel hitches we offer would have a 13K capacity. When it comes to towing, having excess capacity is never, ever a bad thing. If you decide to upgrade to a heavier fifth wheel within the next few years, you'll still be in good shape as long as the loaded and ready to tow weight of the fifth wheel doesn't exceed the capacity of the hitch.

The next step up would be a dual-jaw hitch. Reese offers the # RP30075, which is the lower priced fifth wheel hitch I'd recommend for you. The hitch has a 16K capacity, and would provide much better ride quality than a hitch using a slide bar jaw. For an install kit, you can choose between the universal installation kit, part # RP30035 or the custom vehicle specific kit, part # RP50064-58. The universal kit is less expensive, but would require drilling into the truck frame which takes quite a bit of time. The universal kit will take about twice the install time of the custom kit.

I've linked you to an article about fifth wheel towing, as well as to an install video for the custom install kit that I hope you'll find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L