Fifth wheels or 5th wheels make use of a unique hitch system that makes them more stable to tow. At Ryan's RV Town in Everett, Washington, we’ve got a great selection of 5th wheels, plus the answers to any questions you might have about this particular style of trailer.
A fifth wheel trailer has a special two-part coupling system, called a fifth wheel coupling, that allows the trailer’s gooseneck hitch to lock into the bed of a half-ton or larger pickup truck. These trailers can’t just be bumper pulled like other styles of trailer, which means you have to have an open bed truck to tow them. However, the coupling system allows the hitch to rest ahead of the rear axle of your towing vehicle, which allows for more stability when towing and lets fifth wheelers be as large and luxurious as they are.
The process for hitching a fifth wheel to your truck takes a little practice, but it’s easy to get down after a few tries. First, you need to install the coupling into the back of your truck and make sure it’s secured. Then, you’ll want to make sure your towing vehicle and trailer are both on a level surface. Raise your trailer up to the height of the truck bed, then get in your truck and reverse slowly until the hitch meets the coupling. Park, get out and anchor the hitch to the coupling. Check that it’s secure, then cross your towing chains in an X beneath the hitch and attach them to the fifth wheel. That’s it! You should be good to go. It may take a few tries to get this process down, but you’ll be a pro in no time.
Curious about the fifth wheel lifestyle? If you’re in the market for a fifth wheel trailer, come see our showroom today! Ryan’s RV Town is in Everett, near Seattle. We also serve the cities of Tacoma, Bellingham and Vancouver, Washington.
