Forum Discussion

1911's avatar
1911
Explorer
Mar 09, 2013

Clunking noise while towing

I am new to driving a fifth wheel, but not new to towing. I just got a 98 31' sea breeze fifth wheel. I am using a 15k Reese hitch with kwik sliders. Any time I accelerate from a stop, there is a loud and noticeable "clunking" sound that comes from the trailer. I used the search function, but couldn't find anything. Does anyone know what might cause this and if it is a real problem or not.
  • UsualSuspect's avatar
    UsualSuspect
    Explorer
    Mar 09, 2013
    The clunk is the play between the pins that hold the hitch to the rails and the hitch. When I had my 5'er mine did it from day 1, Reese and the place that installed it said it was normal.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 09, 2013
    We are saying you might have play in the hitch head. Depending on brand of hitch there may or may not be an adjustment. Mine has a hex bolt on the front of the head, that I can adjust to remove the slop between the hitch and the trailer pin.
  • daveandviv's avatar
    daveandviv
    Explorer
    Mar 09, 2013
    Does it "clunk" as you are applying your brakes to stop and then again when you start moving? That would indicate that there is play some wheres in your hitch.
  • 1911's avatar
    1911
    Explorer
    Mar 09, 2013
    Sorry if this is a stupid question, but what do you mean loose hitch? It locks into the rails tightly and doesn't seem to have any play. Is there anywhere else I should check? That is the only place it contacts the truck.

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