Forum Discussion

clev's avatar
clev
Explorer
Jan 20, 2017

Fifth wheel backing

First, I've been towing for 45 years, but it's always been a travel trailer. And, I was good, no brag, just fact. I remember parallel parking my van and 37 foot trailer at a parking area in Deadwood, SD quite a few years back. I got my first five in November and tow it with an F350 long bed SuperDuty and I can't make it do anything; I've tried until I'm exasperated. I know which way to cut it, but it seems like it takes forever for the input to, well, input. I have a 60 ft long garage with 12 ft wide door that I back it into, and this last time, it took an hour, plus divorce threats from my wife. I've always been told how easy it is to back up a five, so what am I doing wrong?
  • patriotgrunt's avatar
    patriotgrunt
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    Also try buying your wife flowers. That'll prevent the divorce while you practice. Works for me.
  • clev's avatar
    clev
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    Again, thanks. I didn't think about You Tube; I check it out.
  • Beaker's avatar
    Beaker
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    ...but it seems like it takes forever for the input to, well, input.


    Yes, and you probably cut it more and when it does start turning it is way too much, too fast. When this starts to happen stop and pull ahead a bit in the opposite direction you where turning.

    Of course the best way is practice, practice, etc but this should help in the meantime.
  • ol_Bombero-JC's avatar
    ol_Bombero-JC
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    Check out the various backing videos on YouTube.

    Sometimes it helps to "view" the methods and techniques,
    rather than "read" about them.

    Also, "Google" the subject. There's a lengthy description (with diagrams and info) intended for tractor/trailer operators.

    On RV Net (5th Wheel Forum) - search the archives for *Backing*.
    Been lots of methods described, including variations of the "Z".

    And yeah - TT's always seemed easier to me.

    You'll always hear...practice, practice, practice - - but do some research 1st.

    Good luck!

    ~
  • clev's avatar
    clev
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    Thanks, guys. As to the 'Z' turn, that's how I've always backed up; just didn't know it had a name, LOL. Anyway, now that I know it's not supposed to be easier, I will practice a little more. My BIL, especially, has always stated how easy a five is compared to a TT, so I'm thinking I'm doing something is wrong. Anyway, thanks again.
  • IdaD's avatar
    IdaD
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    In some ways a fifth wheel actually seems easier to me, but it does respond differently and you need more room for the truck to swing since the trailer reacts more slowly.

    As to what you're doing wrong, don't have your wife help you back up. That's just asking for trouble.
  • BB_TX's avatar
    BB_TX
    Nomad
    Jan 20, 2017
    It's not harder, just different. Since the pivot point is over or in front of the rear axle, the response is slower. As it was years ago with your bumper pull, it is just a matter of practice. Eventually it will come to you. Some cheap orange cones from Walmart, an empty parking lot, and a couple weekends should do wonders for you.
  • rickeoni's avatar
    rickeoni
    Explorer
    Jan 20, 2017
    Try using the Z turn method and smaller inputs. I was in the same boat as you are in, Practiced a bit on a parking lot and once I got the Z turn figured out...back in like a boss now!


    Z turn

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