Comments on: Wantta Get Hitched ?

By: Doug Mason

Doug Mason — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 20:56:37 +0000

I have a question for you? I have a used F-250 super cab. We purchased the truck, then purchased a pop up trailer. The truck had a stock type Reese hitch installed when we bought it. I took everything out but the box rails. We have since then purchased a 5er. My question is this, the existing rails are centered behind the axle centerline approx 3 inches. Can I mount the 5er hitch I got with the trailer, or should I move the rails to center the pin over the axle? Your thoughts will be greatly appreciated.

By: Al Grayson

Al Grayson — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 13:47:39 +0000

Look for fifth wheel hitches that have a latch plate that is curved to match the pin diameter where it bears the pulling force. This type wears much better than the type that is straight.
One disadvantage of the fifth wheel and gooseneck (”stock”) hitch trailer is that in a jackknifing accident the trailer can swing (or the truck can turn) around to where the trailer crushes the truck cab. a straight (”bumper”) pull will not do this. The rear of the truck and the front of the trailer may be mangled but the truck cab will not be crushed or its roof sheared off.
In a heavy frontal collision the 5th wheel/gooseneck trailer can come forward over the pickup bed and smash the truck cab. While this is possible with a straight pull trailer it is much more likely to stay put back there. The A-frame tends to plow under the rear of the pickup bed, holding the front of the trailer down, even if the hitch fails.
If buying a used pickup with a fifth wheel/gooseneck hitch in the bed, make sure the hitch mounts go through to the truck frame and are not just bolted to the bed. The proper kit for the particular application is a must! Don’t accept homemade do-it-yourself jury-rigged contraptions.