Tips on Selecting a Fifth Wheel

A fifth wheel is among the best RVs, and it can serve you well as you camp. At the same time, you will need to know how to pick a fifth wheel hitch. If unsure, contact a dealer in your area. Sun & Fun RVs seems like a great place to start. To learn more, visit our showroom in Tiffin, Iowa, serving Iowa City and Davenport.

Selecting a Hitch for Your Fifth Wheel

Towing Capacity and Weight

The standard weight limit for a conventional hitch is 10,000 pounds. You must consider this if your automobile only has a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less. Most automobiles today can easily pull such a load, but you need to verify that first. If not, you should purchase a different hitch.

If you already have a heavier car, then it is common to see a higher weight limit on the fifth wheel hitch. Many of these hitches have maximum load capacities that range from 15,000 pounds up to 20,000 pounds or more.

What Is Your Truck Bed Length?

Next, measure the truck bed length. It can be done by measuring the distance from the front edge of the truck bed to the rear wheel wells. Once you have this measurement, add an additional 24 inches to it. That will give you the approximate length of the fifth wheel that you need.

Does the Truck Bed Have Pucks?

A standard fifth wheel will not fit in a truck bed that has pucks. It is a divider located between the wheel wells. You can easily determine if your truck has pucks by looking at the sidewalls of the bed.

If you see two horizontal handles, then there are pucks in the truck bed. Also, you cannot use a standard fifth wheel hitch. You will need to buy a fifth wheel hitch specifically designed to fit that type of bed.

5th Wheel Rails Can Be Permanent or Removable

After determining the length, choose a permanent or removable hitch rail system. Permanent rails are bolted directly to the truck bed, while removable rails use brackets.

Removable rails are a good choice if you plan on using your truck for other purposes. They are also good if you need to transport your fifth wheel to another vehicle.

Permanent rails are a good choice if you do not plan on using your truck for other purposes. They are also a better option if you plan on using your fifth wheel for a long time.

Sun & Fun RVs is the perfect place to find the fifth wheel hitch or get an RV that fits both your needs and your vehicle. For more information, visit our showroom in Tiffin, Iowa, serving Iowa City and Davenport.