What kind of grease should I use on a fifth wheel hitch?

Use a dedicated fifth wheel grease or plate lube. Popular options include B&W Fifth Wheel Hitch Lube, Lucas Heavy Duty Bearing Grease, or any lithium-based grease rated for heavy-duty applications. Avoid motor oil or WD-40 — they don't provide adequate lubrication for the weight and friction involved.

How do I inspect my fifth wheel hitch for wear?

Check the hitch jaws for cracks, excessive wear, or looseness. Inspect the skid plate for deep grooves or uneven wear patterns. Verify the locking mechanism engages and releases smoothly. Check all mounting bolts for proper torque. Look at pivot points and pins for wear. Do this inspection at least twice a year or every 10,000 miles of towing.

What parts of a fifth wheel hitch wear out first?

The skid plate wears first since it takes the most friction from the trailer's kingpin plate. Next are the hitch jaws that grip the kingpin — they can develop play over time. Bushings and pivot points on the head also wear. Most wear parts are replaceable without buying a new hitch.

Fifth Wheel Hitch Maintenance

Q: How often should I grease my fifth wheel hitch?

Apply grease to the hitch plate before every trip or every time you hook up, whichever is more frequent. A thin, even coat of fifth wheel grease on the skid plate reduces friction, prevents noise, and protects against wear. It takes 2 minutes and makes a noticeable difference.

Q: How should I store my fifth wheel hitch in the off-season?

Clean off old grease and road grime, inspect for wear or damage, apply a fresh coat of grease to all metal surfaces, and cover the hitch or store indoors if possible. If leaving it in the truck bed, a hitch cover prevents rain and snow from causing rust. Many removable hitches (puck-mount especially) are easy to take out and store in a garage.

Q: How do I clean my fifth wheel hitch?

Use a degreaser or brake cleaner to remove old grease and grime. A wire brush helps with stubborn buildup. Rinse with water, let dry completely, then apply fresh grease. For rust spots, sand lightly and apply a rust-inhibiting primer before regreasing. Clean your hitch at least twice a year.

Written by a towing industry expert

The short answer: A hitch that's not maintained is a hitch waiting to fail. Here's what to check and how often.

The Basics

Fifth wheel hitches are built tough, but they still need attention. Regular maintenance prevents noise, wear, and that awful moment when something doesn't work right at the campground.