5th Wheel Hitches

Similar to the hitches used on big semi-trucks, a 5th wheel hitch has a coupler mechanism under a large flat, horseshoe-shaped plate that locks onto the kingpin from a 5th wheel trailer, while still allowing the trailer to pivot for turning. The trailer also has a flat plate that rests on the 5th wheel hitch plate. These plates continuously slide against one another when the tow vehicle and trailer are moving, and must be lubricated. The hitch mechanism is supported by rails that mount in the truck bed and attach to the frame.

A 5th wheel hitch is desirable for towing large trailers because it can handle much more weight than a standard receiver hitch, and our hitches come in 12,000 lb. up to 30,000 lb. capacities. To ensure your hitch fits and performs perfectly, we offer hitches with custom installation kits designed for specific applications. These kits ensure that your hitch is positioned properly for proper support, reduce installation time, and some allow the hitch to be easily removed so you have full use of the bed.

In most cases 5th wheel hitches are necessary because of the extreme weight of the trailer, but even on lighter trailers 5th wheel setups are preferred because they handle better on the road with minimal sway, and have a better turning radius, making them more maneuverable. Whether you need the capacity of a 5th wheel or you just like the benefits of towing with one you’ve come to the right place, because in addition to an extensive selection of 5th wheel hitches and mounting kits, we also have all the necessary 5th wheel accessories, including lube plates to prevent noise between the coupler and king pin, safety chain loops, and adapters and mounts to attach a 5th wheel to trucks with OE towing prep packages.

5th wheel hitches are designed to be installed in a truck with an 8 ft. bed. Because the trailer king pin should be positioned just in front of the axle when driving on the road, if the hitch is installed in a short bed, there may not be enough clearance between the front of the trailer and pickup cab when making sharp turns during parking maneuvers, possibly causing damage to the truck and trailer. We offer 2 solutions. A roller, or slider, allows the hitch and the trailer to move between the “tow” position just ahead of the axle and a “maneuver” position 10-12” rearward in the truck bed. An extended pin box that positions the king pin further forward on the trailer can also increase space for maneuvering.

The Sidewinder is the alternative maneuverability solution for short bed trucks. The Sidewinder attaches to the 5th wheel hitch, but instead of pivoting at the hitch, the pivot point is moved 22” rearward. With the Sidewinder the load is still properly positioned in the truck bed for proper highway handling, but now it’s possible to do up to 90 degree turns without risk of contact between the cab and trailer. An additional feature available alone or with the Sidewinder is the 5th Airborne king pin. This king pin has an enclosed air spring and shock absorber that combine to reduce shock and movement for a smoother, quieter ride and better handling.