Guides

How to Choose a Fifth Wheel Hitch

Cut through the marketing speak. Here's what actually matters.

The Short Version

  1. 1
    Match the weight rating — Hitch GTW must equal or exceed your trailer's GVWR
  2. 2
    Know your bed length — Short bed? You probably need a slider
  3. 3
    Check your bed prep — Pucks, rails, or gooseneck determines compatibility
  4. 4
    Everything else is preference — Jaw type, brand, features are secondary

Step 1: Weight Ratings

The only must-have

This is the one thing you absolutely cannot get wrong. Your hitch must be rated for the weight you're towing.

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)

Maximum total weight of your trailer when fully loaded. Your hitch's GTW must meet or exceed your trailer's GVWR.

Vertical Tongue Weight (VTW)

Downward force on the hitch from the trailer's pin. Usually 15-25% of GTW.

Common Mistake

Don't use your trailer's dry weight. Use the GVWR from your trailer's VIN plate — the maximum possible weight.

Typical Ratings:

16K

Light duty

20-24K

Most common

25K+

Heavy duty

Step 2: Slider vs Fixed

Based on bed length

Your truck's bed length determines whether you need a sliding hitch.

Short Bed (5.5' - 6.5')

→ You need a slider

The slider moves the hitch backward during tight turns so your trailer doesn't hit your cab.

Long Bed (8')

→ Fixed works fine

You have enough clearance between the trailer and cab during turns.

Not sure? Measure from the bulkhead (front wall) to the tailgate. Under 7 feet = short bed.

Step 3: Match Your Bed Prep

What's in your truck bed?

Factory Pucks

Look for "OEM compatible" or "puck system" hitches. Drop right into factory mounting points.

Aftermarket Rails

Look for "rail mount" or "ISR compatible" hitches. Most hitches fit standard rails.

Gooseneck Ball

You'll need a gooseneck-to-fifth-wheel adapter, or install rails/pucks.

Nothing Yet

Get a complete kit (rails + hitch) or buy rails first, then choose your hitch.

Not sure what you have? Learn to identify your bed prep

Step 4: Features That Matter (and Don't)

Once you've got weight, slider, and mounting figured out, the rest is preference.

Worth Considering

Jaw Type

Double = tighter grip. Single = simpler.

Head Tilt/Pivot

Smoother ride on rough roads.

Height Adjustment

Level your trailer properly.

Warranty

Lifetime warranties are common.

Marketing Speak

"Quiet Ride"

All hitches make some noise.

"Easy One-Person Hookup"

Most modern hitches are easy.

"Fancy Locking Mechanisms"

If it locks and indicates, it's fine.

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