Looking for the best fifth wheel hitch seems not to be an easy job, we have to admit it. You need to understand what the fifth wheel hitch is, what it does, how to find the good product, etc. thoroughly. So, if you had a tough time for scouting around the best one, don’t worry anymore since you’re here.
We’re happy to show you valuable information that we’ve spent a lot of time on studying. Not only do we explain what you’re wondering but also giving you the best fifth wheel slider hitch reviews available on the market today. And we bet that you can pick up the suitable one after reading this article.
Take a quick glance at the fifth wheel hitch
What is a fifth wheel hitch?
A fifth wheel hitch is a device aiding the weight of a semi-trailer while being towed by a pickup truck.
You should know that installing the hitch accurately is very important since the trailer’s weight will press down between the truck’s cab and the rear axle. In case you just use a small ball hitch to tow the large semi-trailer, the heaviness of the trailer will drag the truck down. Moreover, it makes the front wheels lift off the floor. And this creates a big concern as well as a series of safety issues.
That’s why the appearance of the 5th wheel hitch ensures that the weight will be placed safely towards the center of the truck, making it remain stable all the times.
Which benefits can you get from using the 5th wheel hitch?
You actually recognize lots of advantages that a fifth wheel hitch can do. As outlined above, this device is able to support a motorhome trailer or any kind of trailer. Besides, you are able to detach the hitch if you want to use it for other aims.
As a plus, it comes with fewer weight restrictions, helping your vehicle and hitch avoid possible damages.
How many kinds of the 5th wheel hitch?
This device includes two main types, called the fixed position model and the sliding one. But, if you pick up the slider, you will catch two more kinds consisting of a manual slider and an automatic sliding option..
Fixed position
As its name suggests, this type will stay firmly in one place. Its performance is simple, strong and operates best on long bed trucks. In comparison with other types, this one has an affordable price. Just bear in mind that you should not use it for short bed truck because the small gap between the cap and trailer will result in a collision on tight turns.
Manual slider
This style will be a good choice if you’re on a tight budget or using a short bed truck. Of course, it satisfies all your demands. However, you need to perform the slide if a tight turn is approaching. Make sure you remember to correct the hitch before turning or you might easily get into accidents.
Automatic slider
If you need to have a safe and smooth 5th wheel slider hitch for short bed truck, you should opt for the automatic slider. When beginning to enter a tight turn, you will have no worry since this kind will automatically move. The only issue is its high price and a limited list of products to buy.
Things to Consider Before Selecting the Best 5th Wheel Hitch
Learning essential factors to pick up the best fifth wheel hitch is similar to learn how to install a fifth wheel hitch. And what you need is to a clear guidance, right? Take a look at considerations below and then you can make a right decision by yourself.
Weight capacity
Bear in mind that the weight capacity is one of the most important factors that you need to take into account first when deciding to buy the fifth wheel hitch. Of course, this device is guaranteed to have enough power to tow the trailer or it can break while on the way. More dangerously, it might lead to serious accidents.
Truly, you easily see the capacity that is labeled on each hitch. In our opinion, the device with 20,000 pounds is ideal for the large trailers.
The jaws
In case your trailer is over 25,000 pounds, you should pay attention to a single jaw design, apart from selecting the suitable hitch. By using rails, the jaw helps you connect the hitch easily and securely so that it is able to handle heavy loads.
Otherwise, you can use the double-jaw hitch to increase the power as well as reducing the noise of the trailer while driving. However, if you’re dealing with extremely massive trailers, it is not a good choice.
The pivot system
This system demonstrates its flexibility while you’re on the way. Particularly, the hitch with two-pivot systems permits your trailer to move forwards. Also, it allows you to drag the trailer on any hilly or straight roads. But, if you’re passing bumpy trails, be careful because this hitch doesn’t offer a swiveling option.
If you prefer the maximum flexibility, you should consider the four-pivot system that enables your trailer to move sideward with ease. Relying on that, you can drive on any terrain.
The mounting style
Don’t ignore the mounting style of the hitch because this essential factor helps to connect the truck and trailer solidly and seamlessly. Although most the 5th wheel hitches are utilizing rail systems as a mounting platform, you can find some that can be installed underneath the bed.
Today, you are able to set up with the rail systems. Thanks to their efficiency and simplicity in creating tough connections, you won’t meet any trouble to assemble for sure.
Ease of use
One certain thing is that most of the fifth wheel hitches are convenient to use. You are able to connect or disconnect it depending on your different demands easily.
Price
The expensive prices might or might not ensure that the device is high quality. The best thing is to compare the features to the price in order to evaluate your choice better.
Top 6 Best Fifth Wheel Hitch Reviews
#1. CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch
As compared to other 5th wheel hitches of the CURT Q-Series, the CURT 16130 Q20 is known as a top choice in its group.
With a stable and durable construction, this powerful towing device is able to drag 20,000-pound trailers. Even, it accepts an upright load limit of 5,000 pounds, allowing it to tow any other 5th wheel trailers from campers to large recreational vehicles.
One of the main selling points is a 3-position coupler that helps you view easily from your rearview mirrors. Relying on that, you can know when you need to lock it. Thanks to a dual jaw system covering the kingpin, you’re guaranteed to get a smooth and quiet towing. Besides, the spherical axial bearing mount helps the hitch move in any directions and any terrains easily.
Except for the axial bearing, the hitch’s head is also equipped with grease fittings that lubricate the head and bearing for responsive actions. And another excellent feature is the rubber stoppers that are thick enough to act as a cushion while you’re on the road.
Although the CURT 16130 Q20 5th wheel hitch is quite solid, you might realize some troubles to hitch or unhitch it. Suppose you have the truck with a short bed, this device is not compatible.
Pros of the product
- Comes with a heavy-duty towing power of 20,000 pounds
- Durable and stable construction
- Lessens noise and rattling with dual jaws
- Rides smoother with the spherical axial bearing
- Capable of 360-degree tilt
- A 10-year warranty
- Some complain that removal is quite tough
- Not suitable for trucks with the short beds
Learn how to install the CURT 16130 Q20
#2. B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitch RVK3500
If you often have long-haul road trips with an RV or trailer attached to your truck, the strength and power of the B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitch RVK3500 will relieve your mind. Indeed, lots of hitch experts reckon that this product is the best fifth wheel hitch available on the market today. Though, its price might make you consider again.
The RVK350 is seen as a fully versatile and removable hitch that you can easily remove from the truck anytime you want. Moreover, installation is rather simple when you just pull the lever to free the gooseneck ball, slide in the attachment, set the base and tighten bolts. Since everything just happens within 10 minutes, you have no worry about a high installation cost.
How about the weight capacity?
Similar to the CURT 16130 Q20, this hitch is able to pull the RVs and trailers of more than 20,000 pounds easily. Additionally, it is equipped with a fully-articulated head that permits a front to back and side to side pivoting. It’s a perfect idea if you often perform tight turns.
Of course, the RVK350 from B&W provides a smooth and quiet hauling and towing operation while you’re on any terrain. Thanks to its cam action latching handle, you can easily release it whenever parking on rough surfaces.
Pros of the product
- Easy to install and do any adjustments
- No requires of mounting rails
- Easy operation thanks to the cam-action handle
- Less noise and rattling while moving
- Gets multiple angles pivoting with the fully-articulated head
- Too heavy (200 pounds)
- A high price
- Not compatible with small bed trucks
View this video to know how to install the RVK350
#3. Pro-Series 30056 Fifth Wheel Hitch 15K
The next product of our 5th wheel hitch reviews is all about the fixed position hitch, the Pro-Series 30065. Similar to the CURT 16130 Q20, you just spend a fair price to own features that are attributed to the expensive devices.
The towing capacity of this product is 15,000 pounds and it just weighs 75.5 pounds. In addition, it avails a rounded-slide bar mechanism for automated self-latching. Plus, its rails are made of high-quality metal while its slide bars are designed with power.
Thanks to a 4-way pivoting head with a 5-degree tilted side, this hitch gives you an easy hook-up so that you can tow your trailer through any uneven grounds. Furthermore, it comes with a mounting kit that assures less time wastage. And you don’t worry about the installation since it’s rather easy.
Pros of the product
- Highlights a 4-way pivoting head for a maximum flexibility
- Comes with an automated latching design
- Easy to set up
- Be equipped a round slide bar jaw
- Provides a mounting kit
- 3-year warranty
- If you prefer the weight capacity up to 20,000 pounds, this hitch is not your choice
- The slide bars sometimes make noises
#4. Reese 30119 Pro Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch
If comparing to many Reese 5th wheel hitches, the Reese 30119 Pro Series 20K is currently the best choice for sale. You are able to find out everything you need from the best 5th wheel hitch such as a head support, rail and legs kits, etc.
Besides, this hitch comes with a series of other excellent features including a double jaw system for keeping the kingpin, a flexible height that allows you change the hitch easily, and a floating head. Especially, you can upgrade this product in case you prefer a slider system.
As its name suggests, the Reese 30119 can deal with the towing weight of 20,000 pounds. Although this device is quite lightweight, it single foot is molded to offer a great amount of stability.
How about installation? Truly, it’s a bit challenging since you need to cut some holes in your truck bed.
After all, if you’re searching a good overall hitching operation, the Reese 30119 Pro Series 20K fifth wheel hitch is an ideal selection. Not only does it pivot in every direction but also be a great device that helps you overcome any hitching situations.
Pros of the product
- Good for short bed truck
- Comes with a powerful weight capacity
- Performs hitching work well
- Includes excellent features for the best hitch
- Has a good price as compared to other Reese fifth wheel hitches
- Some claim that installation is tough
#5. CURT 16245 Q24 5th Wheel Hitch
The CURT 16245 Q24 5th Wheel Hitch boasts of an outstanding range of features that you don’t want to miss for sure.
At first sight, this highly stylish hitch is designed to combine both style and attached functionality into your life. One interesting thing is that it is able to tow more than 24,000 pounds in weight. Besides, it’s fitted with the dual jaws, offering a 360-degree constant connection with the kingpin.
Especially, its spherical axial bearing permits a totally free and clear head movement. As a plus, you can receive a quiet and smooth tow.
Although the CURT 16245 Q24 doesn’t come with its own base rails, it is capable of mounting unto the standard base rails. Moreover, it highlights a huge opening for simple coupling and consists of a 3-position coupling indicator. Relying on that, you can easily view from the cab of your truck.
Pros of the product
- Tows up to 24,000 pounds
- Easily views the hitch thanks to its 3-position coupling indicator
- Comes with the spherical axial bearing, offering a flexible head motion
- Has a modern and stylish look
- Very powerful and quiet while moving on the road
- Satisfies SAE J2638 testing standards
- 10-year warranty
- Some require a better package while shipped
- This product doesn’t offer available rails for installation
#6. B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3775 Companion Slider 5th Wheel Hitch
Another top 5th wheel hitch that definitively does an excellent job of towing is the B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3775. This product comes with a great towing capacity and many excellent features to guarantee your safety and stability on the road.
This hitch’s maximum towing capacity is 20,000 lbs., and its pin weight limit stands at 5,000 lbs. This ensures that you can tow heavy trailers without any fear of them slipping or shaking on the road. The Hitch is made from high-quality steel, which provides a strong and secure connection between your truck and the trailer.
The hitch is equipped with a 4-way swivel plus an adjustable head that makes it possible for up, down, left, and right movement. Boasting a generous 12″ slide for maneuverability, you can effortlessly navigate tight spaces with your trailer.
The convenient latch is also easy to use, perfect for when your vehicle is parked on an uneven surface. Enjoy a smooth and quiet towing experience with Polyurethane bushings that fit perfectly in 2020-2022 Chevrolet/GM OEM hitches. No more rattling!
All in all, the B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3775 Companion Slider 5th Wheel Hitch is an excellent product for those who want a secure towing setup for their trailer. With its strong steel construction and easy-to-use design, you can tow large trailers with confidence!
Pros of the product
- High-quality steel construction
- Maximum towing capacity of 20,000 lbs & pin weight limit of 5000 lbs
- 4-way pivot type and articulating head allow for easy maneuverability
- 12” slide for maneuverability
- Convenient latch
- Smooth and quiet towing experience with Polyurethane bushings
- Compatible with 2020-2022 Chevrolet/GM OEM hitches
- Expensive compared to other 5th wheel hitches
FAQs about the fifth wheel hitch
Which one should I choose, a weight distribution hitch or a fifth wheel hitch?
A weight distribution hitch helps to create a stable and smooth ride for your tow vehicle or trailer. Besides, it corrects tow vehicle sag, better stopping and steering, and adjust trailer sway. If your vehicle weight is up to 50% of your vehicle’s weight, you should pick up the weight distribution hitch.
If you follow us from beginning to now, you will know that the fifth wheel hitch is particularly designed to become the “fifth” wheel on the camper or RV. It has a pivot point placed and installed in your bed truck in order to create a safer and more secure turning and pulling than a normal hitch ball.
As a whole, both devices are important parts of safe towing because they help to balance the load you are pulling and decrease swaying on the road.
Can I install the fifth wheel hitch for my 5.5-feet bed truck?
If your bed truck is less than 6-feet, installing the 5th wheel hitch is not suggested because of the trailer to cab clearance. But, you can use the 5th wheel slider hitch and an extended pin box to compensate for the decreased turning clearance.
To the bed truck between 6-feet and 6.5-feet, the best thing is to have a roller installed to create a tight cornering.
How can I select the right fifth wheel hitch for my trailer?
- 20k fifth wheel hitch is certainly the best kind because they are capable of carrying much heavier trailers. Also, it comes with a better locking system that helps to move any bumpy road with ease.
- 16K fifth wheel hitch is a good choice for a higher capacity trailer. Accurately, it can be availed for a 6-½-foot-size trailer. Additionally, this device offers a kingpin that hardly fastens the slide-jaw bar, not creating any noise while on the road. Reese 16k fifth wheel hitch can be a great choice for a trailer with a weight of 16,000 lbs. The product is proven to be reliable and easy to install for anyone.
- 15K fifth wheel hitch is for the trailer with the minimum capacity. It is sometimes smaller than the trailers and often comes with a slide-bar jaw. So, you can easily get some noises when driving.
Should I weld the 5th wheel hitch to the frame?
Avoid welding the hitch to the frame unless it’s specified by the hitch manufacturer. And welding needs be completed by a certified pro because unsuitable welds can lower both the frame and hitch of the vehicle.
In our opinion, it’s best to bolt the fifth wheel hitch and you just drill holes on the bed, not the frame.
Do I really need a sliding fifth wheel hitch?
The answer to this question depends on the type of trailer you own and what you plan to do with it. For instance, if your trailer is a fifth wheel and you plan to do some off-roading, then yes, you would likely benefit from having a sliding fifth wheel hitch.
What is one disadvantage of the fifth wheel hitch?
The main disadvantage of a fifth wheel hitch is that it requires more effort to install and remove than other types of hitches. Additionally, some models may require additional modifications or reinforcement to be installed on the vehicle they are being used with.
Final thoughts
As you see, the best fifth wheel hitch can assure that your time on the way will be safer and smoother. Moreover, it’s a necessary convenience that you must have before towing a big trailer with a heavy load. Thanks to this mechanical device, your truck is capable of carrying the trailer without any troubles.
Your selections for this device is never limited since the market today is flooding with them. Just make sure you know what you need so that you can pick up the right one.
Which hitch do you want, fixed or sliding? Which one is good for your short bed truck? Or do you want the hitch that can tow up to 25,000 pounds? With our list of the 6 excellent fifth wheel slider hitch reviews, we believe that you can make a right decision.
But, in case you need a name of the winner, we suggest the CURT 16130 Q20 5th wheel hitch. It’s because this product comes with the high-quality features, affordable price, and great durability. Or if you have a big budget, you can consult the hitches from the B&W or Reese brands.
In a word, everything seems difficult at first, but we hope we supported you to choose the good one as well as know thoroughly about this device. Suppose you need more information, don’t mind sending us your comments by typing in the box below. Or in case you find our article helpful, please tap on SHARE buttons now.
P/s: You may be interested in another necessary application for RVs, the best RV tankless water heater, which will provide hot water and save you a ton of energy than a normal water heater.
Once again, thanks for reading.
