I have the B&W Companion Hitch on my 07 F350 Long Bed and the hitch currently has the coupler aligned with the centerline of the axel. Backing (maneuvering) has been a real hassle. I recognize that it’s only 2 inches but on my last trip I ran into a gentleman with the same B&W hitch except on a GMC long bed. He had his hitch moved forward 2 inches from the axel centerline and claimed it helped with backing. I know it’s only a couple of inches but my question is whether anyone else has had experience with moving the front to back hitch adjustment on the B&W hitch and having a change or better results with backing maneuvering?

Just guesstimating on my hitch, but I would say mine is an inch or two in front of the rear axle. It doesn't appear to be on the centerline of the axle. I can't say whether the backing is any easier since it has been that way since I bought it.If you came to the 5er from a TT then it may take a bit more getting used to. Just a thought.

Install full forward with the vertical part of the sides with the rubber bushings to the front. This will put you as far forward as possible.Industry STANDARD is 2" forward of centerline of rear axle. This allows a small amount of weight to be transferred to the front axle. I only add 100# to my front axle with a total of 4,500# pin weight.

Sorry to say I don't think that 2" is going to make any difference, only practice will make a difference.Backing is a skill that needs to be learned, also you don't state the size of your 5er the longer the easier it is to back up!I learned long ago the easiest for me is hand at the bottom of the wheel and push the direction you want the trailer to go, once is starts that direction start to straighten out. Most drivers have issues with over turning, then getting out of shape.Most of the time I do very well, but every once in a while I back up like a rookie. :S

For most people moving the hitch forward would make it harder to back. The more you move forward of axle the SLOWER the response will be to turn. The farther the hitch would be Rear of axle the quicker it would respond. This is why a bumper hitch trailer turns quicker and is easier to back than a fifth wheel.

I don't see how 2 or even 6 inches would make that much difference. I went from a short bed to an 8' bed and the hitch may have moved 10" or so further back and I can't tell much difference.The hitch has to fit in a certain position relative to he axle if properly installed. My B&W companion has 3 adjustments front to back and 3 up and down. I have mine in the forward holes and middle up and down which makes my rig slightly nose high.

B&W Companion Hitch Front to Back Adjustment | Good Sam Community

13 Replies

rhagfo
Explorer III
May 02, 2013
Sorry to say I don't think that 2" is going to make any difference, only practice will make a difference.
Backing is a skill that needs to be learned, also you don't state the size of your 5er the longer the easier it is to back up!
I learned long ago the easiest for me is hand at the bottom of the wheel and push the direction you want the trailer to go, once is starts that direction start to straighten out. Most drivers have issues with over turning, then getting out of shape.
Most of the time I do very well, but every once in a while I back up like a rookie. :S
Cummins12V98
Explorer III
May 02, 2013
Install full forward with the vertical part of the sides with the rubber bushings to the front. This will put you as far forward as possible.

Industry STANDARD is 2" forward of centerline of rear axle. This allows a small amount of weight to be transferred to the front axle. I only add 100# to my front axle with a total of 4,500# pin weight.
fj12ryder
Explorer III
May 02, 2013
Just guesstimating on my hitch, but I would say mine is an inch or two in front of the rear axle. It doesn't appear to be on the centerline of the axle. I can't say whether the backing is any easier since it has been that way since I bought it.

If you came to the 5er from a TT then it may take a bit more getting used to. Just a thought.

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B&W Companion Hitch Front to Back Adjustment

13 Replies

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