Forum Discussion

Nevadastars's avatar
Nevadastars
Explorer
Jan 02, 2017

Pin height?

Is there a standard pin height from the ground while the unit is level on later model fivers? I can't seem to find that info on the spec pages I found. We live in a small town with no RV dealers, so can't just hop in the car and go measure one.

I am trying to figure out if a newer fiver will sit somewhat level on my 2007 Ram 2500 4x4 with out having to flip the axles. The closest dealer is 70 miles away, so if someone can take a quick measurement from the ground to the pin, I would appreciate it. Thanks for any help
  • I think the later model FWs generally have a higher pin than older models. If you look at mid size and up FWs that are 5yrs old or newer, you should be able to tow fairly level with a stock 10yr old truck.

    IMO, it is not a problem, if towing a FW a couple inches or less nose-high. Keep in mind, the more pin wt added, will make the truck squat more.

    Jerry
  • Ok, thanks for the help guys. Another relatively minor issue, is we have a nearly enclosed cover that our MH is under. It is about 12'6" in the center, so raising a fiver would really aggravate that problem. Fortunately, it is on a dirt/gravel floor and can get a tractor in there and remove a few inches if needed.

    Looks like this process is going to take a lot of thought. There is a small RV show this weekend an hour away from here. I think I will go check it out and take a tape measure with me so I can see exactly what I am dealing with.
  • Sadly there is no standard. When we went looking for a new truck I did measure my fiver. Ended up with a 4X2 dually against wifes desire for a 4X4 for loaded height. Back when the difference was about 3 inches. Even at thst I ended up changing axle position to raise my fiver another 2 inches to be safe.
  • There is a certain amount of adjustability in the actual hitch height and pin height. They can be changed some depending on the model of hitch. But you have to be sure you still have clearance for the hitch/pin to clear the bed when maneuvering. Many people have raised their trailers to adjust for height. It can be a fairly simple job, to a fairly complex one depending how high the trailer needs to be raised.

    Some have commented on lowering their truck, but those are fewer in number.
  • So, basically I just have to find one with the highest pin available so it will be level? Even though my truck is stock, it is still pretty tall. We will be looking at fivers once the weather warms up a bit and don't want to have to deal with raising one to match my truck or have one tilted up while going down the road.

    Pardon my ignorance on this subject, we have been in motor homes, so this is an entirely new ball game for me.
  • Too many different builds to have any kind of standard. Tire size, spring length, frame dimensions, basement height, etc. can all affect the pin distance from the ground.