4 Things You Should Know Before Using A Fifth Wheel Hitch
Posted on: 3 January 2017
Using a fifth wheel hitch can help you save money on travel, especially because you can take your shelter with you. Of course, it is not necessarily as simple as sitting down and deciding to tow your fifth wheel. A lot of work goes into finding the right hitch and then using it properly to avoid damaging your truck or fifth wheel. These tips will help you make good choices before you even get started.
1. You Get What You Pay For
A cheap trailer hitch is bound to be loose, causing the king pin to be grabbed by the coupler jaw. This is called chucking. If you don't want to listen to the terrible clunking sounds, make sure that you pay for a tight hitch that does not produce such an obnoxiously loud sound and leave you worrying that something may happen.
2. Be Careful with Shortbed Pickups
There are many warnings out there to those who intend to tow a fifth wheel with a shortbed truck. While it can be done, you may need to use a pin-box extension and slide rails. A pin-box extension ensures that the weight of the trailer rests above the axle but does not cause interference with the cab as you turn. Unfortunately, incidents can still happen. The best trucks to use are those that weigh at least three-quarters of a ton, but half-ton trucks work too.
3. Always Keep the Tailgate Down when You Hook Up
If you do not want to ruin your tailgate, keep it down while you hook up. Otherwise, you may end up with quite a problem on your hands. Want to avoid even more damage? Make sure you have an emergency brake cable attached to prevent the trailer from becoming unhitched and heading on down the highway without you.
4. Lubricate Your Hitch Frequently
In order to keep the hitch working correctly and safely, keep it lubricated and clean. Also make sure that you clean up old lubricant before you apply any more. Your best options may include a plastic lube plate or chassis grease. Never forget the power of proper maintenance. Checking the pull pins, jaw engagement, and other hardware helps to ensure you face no issues once you hit the road.
Operating a fifth wheel is much easier when you pay close attention to the smaller steps along the way. You can easily get moving quicker when you have an idea of how to accomplish your goals efficiently. For more information, contact local professionals like Major Tire & Hitch Inc.
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