A Beginner's Guide To Choosing A Fifth Wheel Hitch
Without a hitch, your fifth wheel would never leave your property. This essential accessory connects the camper to your tow vehicle, making safe road trips a possibility. But not all hitches will suit your RV, tow vehicle, budget and lifestyle. That's why we created the following fifth wheel hitch buying guide.
If you want more information or want to shop fifth wheels for sale near Boston, Massachusetts, head over to Rte. 125 RV & Marine. Our dealership is based in Rochester, New Hampshire, and we also proudly serve those in Massachusetts and Maine.
Know The Benefits Of The Various Fifth Wheel Hitches
Fifth wheel hitches come in many different designs and varieties, offering many different benefits. Before you start narrowing the search, it helps to understand the available options.
A 2-way pivot head is the standard option. It pivots forward and aft. The design allows the tow vehicle to tackle a slope before the fifth wheel reaches it, which prevents extra stress from being added to the hitch.
A 4-way pivot head offers the perks of a 2-way pivot head, but can also move from side to side. This design provides a smoother travel experience, especially on uneven and unpredictable surfaces.
A universal rail hitch can work with any trailer. The design does not need holes to be drilled into the truck frame.
A custom rail hitch provides the perks of a universal rail hitch, but it can also allow the usage of personalized rails.
A single jaw option uses one grab jaw, making for an easy connection. It's also the safest of all the hitches.
A double jaw option provides double the power of a single jaw style.
Selecting Your Ideal Match
When considering a fifth wheel hitch, it's important to consider various factors.
1. The Tow Vehicle
Start with your tow vehicle. Some models may not work with certain types of hitches, ruling out unusable options before you waste time researching them.
2. The Weight Limit
It's important to avoid getting too heavy of a hitch. You don't want the hitch taking up too much weight and limiting the amount of supplies you can bring on an RV trip. Remember that tow vehicles can only safely and legally handle so much weight. Make sure the fifth wheel, the passengers, the cargo, and the hitch all fit within those restrictions.
2. The Tow Vehicle's Features
Some tow vehicles may have features that better suit them to certain hitch styles. Maybe it has metal rails or pucks. If so, you'll need a hitch that can work with pre-built anchors. Or maybe the vehicle has a plastic liner. You'll need to create a hole that can accommodate the coupler. Or maybe the truck already has holes drilled into it. Custom rails are an accessible option in that case.
3. The Truck Bed's Length
If your tow vehicle has a short truck bed, it faces a unique dilemma. When you approach a turn, you face a higher chance of the fifth wheel hitting the tow vehicle.
That's where an extended pin box comes in handy. It boosts the turning radius, making a collision less likely.
4. Set A Price Limit
It's best to get the highest quality fifth wheel hitch that you can afford. Think about what you can spend, then limit your search to models within that price range.
5. Your Towing Comfort Zone
Do you feel ready to tackle a complicated fifth wheel hitch? Or do you want something simple and streamlined? Think about what works for your towing experience level.
6. The Installation Needs
If you want to install the fifth wheel hitch yourself, be sure to get a model that you can safely and confidently install. If you plan on hiring a professional, include that cost into your budget.
We hope you found this fifth wheel hitch buying guide helpful. If you are looking for fifth wheels for sale near Boston, Massachusetts, check out the selection at Rte. 125 RV & Marine. Our expert staff can help you find the perfect model. Explore our inventory online or visit our dealership in Rochester, New Hampshire. We are also happy to serve those in Massachusetts and Maine.