Fifth Wheel Hitching Guide

Fifth wheels provide a towing experience that’s amazingly smooth and easy to handle, but one aspect of fifth wheel ownership that doesn’t always go as smooth is actually hitching things up. Even experienced fifth wheel owners sometimes have problems. That’s why Campers Unlimited have created this helpful fifth wheel hitching guide. 

1. Choose a Level Surface

It’s much easier to hitch up a fifth wheel if you use a flat, level surface such as a concrete slab. Keep in mind that you might need to add wheel chocks to provide additional support. Put your hitch in the coupling position and then proceed to the next step. 

2. Open the Wheel Jaws

Pull the side handle to get the wheel jaws open or the locking bar retracts. Be sure to place it firmly in the open position as well. If things start to get stuck, apply high-pressure grease. If the parts keep getting stuck, we recommend installing a lube plate. 

3. Back-Up Slowly

Now that the wheel jaws are open, it’s time to open the tailgate, line up your fifth wheel's hitch, and slowly back up your tow vehicle. This last step can be difficult, so we recommend having a spotter on hand to guide you. Don’t forget that your tow vehicle will shift slightly after you put it in park, so stop your truck slightly early to compensate. 

4. Adjust the Jacks and Engage the Coupler

Once you’ve gotten your tow vehicle fully aligned and in place, adjust the jacks until the hitch plate is about ½” above the kingpin box. Back up your tow vehicle so that the kingpin connects with the fifth wheel head and park year vehicle. Engage the emergency break and insert the safety pin.

5. Test the Coupling and Complete Your Checklist

Disengage your vehicle’s emergency brake and hit the trailer brakes. You should then put the tow vehicle in drive and inch forward until you feel a bit of resistance. This resistance means that your connection is secure. Give everything one last check before you leave. Make sure that the tailgate is closed, the safety pin/chains are in place, all the wiring is fully connected, the jacks have been lifted, and the wheel chocks have been removed. Now it's time to hit the road with your fifth wheel!

Shop fifth wheels at Campers Unlimited. Visit us online or at our dealerships in Gadsden and Oxford, Alabama. We’re proud to serve communities like Birmingham and Huntsville, Alabama. We hope to see you soon!