Guides

Measuring Fifth Wheel Hitch Height

A level trailer tows better, wears evenly, and looks right. Here's how to dial it in.

Why Height Matters

↗️

Too High (Nose Up)

Light front axle, squirrely steering, rear tire wear

✅

Level

Balanced weight, stable handling, even tire wear

↘️

Too Low (Nose Down)

Heavy tongue, overloaded rear, poor braking

Step 1: Measure Your Truck

Before hooking up

What to Measure:

Measure from the ground to the top of the bed rails (where a hitch would sit) at the point where your hitch will mount — usually just forward of the wheel wells.

  • • Park on level ground
  • • Truck should be loaded as it will be when towing (gear, passengers, fuel)
  • • Write down this number

Typical range: Most trucks measure 38" to 44" from ground to bed rail.

Step 2: Check Your Trailer

Find the kingpin height

Your trailer's kingpin height is measured from the ground to the bottom of the kingpin (the part that drops into the hitch jaw).

How to Find It:

  1. 1. Park trailer on level ground
  2. 2. Use the front jacks to level the trailer side-to-side and front-to-back
  3. 3. Measure from ground to bottom of kingpin

Typical range: Most fifth wheel trailers have a kingpin height of 42" to 48" when level.

Step 3: Do the Math

Calculate your hitch height

Hitch Height = Kingpin Height - Bed Rail Height

This tells you how tall your hitch needs to be above your bed rails.

Example:

  • Trailer kingpin height: 45"
  • Truck bed rail height: 40"
  • Hitch height needed: 45" - 40" = 5" above bed rails

Adjusting Your Hitch

Most hitches are adjustable

Most fifth wheel hitches have height adjustment built in. Look for:

Pin/Hole Adjustment

Multiple holes in the head assembly. Remove pins, move the head up or down, re-pin. Common 1" increments.

Leg Height

Some hitches have adjustable legs that change the overall height. Check your manual.

Important

After adjusting, always verify the locking mechanism still engages properly. The kingpin must fully seat in the jaw.

Fine Tuning

After you're hooked up

Once connected, check that your trailer is level front-to-back. Use a long level on the trailer frame (not the floor, which may be sloped for drainage).

What to Look For:

  • • Slightly nose-down (1-2") is acceptable and helps with aerodynamics
  • • Perfectly level is ideal
  • • Nose-up means your hitch is too high — lower it

Find the Right Hitch

Most hitches have 5-10" of height adjustment. Find one that fits your truck.

Find Hitches for My Truck