Newbie

work2much wrote:

djgarcia wrote:

GPG52! wrote:
Welcome to the 5'er family.
1- check and double check your hook up, do safety walk around before you start and at every stop.
X1-- make sure to do the "Bump test" every time you hook up the 5th wheel. Lower your front jacks so they are about 2 inches off the ground then use your electric brake to lock up the wheels on the 5th wheel and then just move your truck forward with a couple of tugs just to make sure you are hooked up correctly.



3- anticipate traffic ahead and keep a reasonable distance
X1-- stopping a 5th wheel takes a lot longer than what we are used to when driving our cars.

4- make sure to adjust your mirrors, I like to be able to see my trailer tires when I turn, this way I know where I'm tracking.
X1 -I visually scan the tires about every 10 min. to make sure is all ok. When you stop at rest stops, put your hand on the wheel hubs to check for heat. Warm is ok! If you can't keep your hand on the hub, you might have bearing issues.

5- be aware of your overhead clearance, most roads now have sufficient clearance but gas stations may not.
X1-- I prefer to use truck stops for fuel to avoid height and crowding situations. ie. Flying J or Pilot fuel stations.

7- Some parking lot practice is always a good idea.
Most of all enjoy. GPG
PS: I like the center lane especially where the on ramps are short and busy, this avoids having to deal with jack rabbit drivers trying to out run you so they do not get behind a rig ... (my pet peeve)

If you don't have an "Exhaust Brake", strongly encourage you to install one. Makes a big difference coming down hills:)

Do they make exhaust brakes for gas engines?

OP, what trailer are you matching to your truck?