5th wheel hitch

[Sarasota50]

I have a 16,000 lb. Pin wt. 4000 max Reese hitch and would like to upgrade my 5th wheel to a model that has a total weight of 14,600 all in, is this getting to close for the hitch capacity ??

[valhalla360]

If your pin wieght isn't over the hitch rating, it's fine. Most 5th wheels are 20-25% of the total weight for the hitch weight, so it's probably fine but better to verify.

If it wasn't good for 16000/4000, they wouldn't have rated it for that.

(of course, that is with fully loaded weights)

[justafordguy]

You should get the loaded pin weight of the trailer and then make your decision. The gvwr on mine is 15500lb but my loaded pin weight is only 2350lbs. I have the same hitch as you and it works great for my trailer.

[MFL]

If you like the hitch you have, it will work fine. If you are looking for an upgrade, there are many good hitches. Most any of the 16,000/4,000, would be HD enough for the trailer you mention.

Jerry

[bpounds]

CarlT100 wrote:

Seriously, if I buy another hitch, I will buy an air cushioned hitch.

Excellent idea, for a weight the OP is looking at.

[CarlT100]

I deliberately gave the 30% as a worst case scenario since I have no idea how the FW will be loaded, where the water tank is located, etc. I would not hesitate to use the hitch if the pin weight were 3700 pounds. It is built for that. However, if the pin weight is 4000 pounds or over, I would get an upgraded hitch for my peace of mind. And I would buy a Reese. 🙂 I am quite satisfied with my Reese Elite.

Seriously, if I buy another hitch, I will buy an air cushioned hitch.

[bpounds]

Do you like the hitch? If so, I think it will work fine. We have to trust their rating system. It's all we have to go by. I'm doubtful that you will load it up to GVWR, and even if you do, it won't hit 30% pin weight.

On the other hand, at least one bingo around here will tell you that Reese is unsafe at any weight. So if you don't feel comfortable running near the rating, upgrade for peace of mind.

[CarlT100]

30% of 14,600 = 4380. 25% = 3650. You will be right at the 4000 limit or slightly over. Personally, I would rather have too much hitch than be right at the limit.