How to Hitch Your Fifth Wheel

Being able to hitch up your fifth wheel is very important. After all, it’s the start of every RV trip! If you’re a new fifth wheel owner unsure of where to start in regards to hitching up your rig, or you’re an experienced owner in need of a refresher, this guide from RV Outfitters of Texas can provide you with the guidance you need.

1. Choose a Level Surface 

Try to hitch up your fifth wheel on a flat, solid surface whenever possible. This will make backing up your truck that much easier, as well as help ensure a safe and solid connection. We recommend using wheel chocks to provide extra support, along with double-checking that your hitch is at the right height for coupling. 

2. Open the Wheel Jaws

Next, you’ll either open the wheel jaws or retract the locking bar, depending upon the model, by pulling the handle and securing it in the open position. If you’re concerned about the coupling not being smooth enough, apply high-pressure grease or consider installing a lube plate. 

3. Back Up Slowly

Once the jaws and hitch are positioned, lower your tailgate and line up your hitch. A friend or family member standing in a safe position can help guide you as you back up. Don’t forget that your truck will shift slightly once you park it, so stop a little early to compensate. 

4. Adjust the Jacks

Your next step is to adjust the trailer jacks. The hitch plate should be slightly higher than the kingpin box so that it can ramp up onto the hitch plate. The kingpin box itself will generally be about ½” below the top of the fifth wheel head. 

5. Engage the Coupler

Once jacks are adjusted, slowly back up your truck until the connection is established. You can then park your truck and engage the emergency break. Inspect your connection to make sure that the jaws are fully locked and engaged. Engage the lock bar or wheel jars if your model doesn’t do this automatically and insert the safety pin. 

6. Test the Coupling and Complete Your Checklist

Disengage the emergency brake, activate your trailer’s brakes, and slowly inch forward so that the truck can tug at the trailer. If you feel some resistance, it means the connection is secure. Perform your final safety checklist now, making sure that the tailgate is closed, the safety pin/chains are in place, and the wiring is connected. You should also make sure that the chocks are removed, the jacks are lifted, and the trailer lights are functioning as intended. 

Shop our inventory of fifth wheel models at RV Outfitters of Texas. Our dealership in Nacogdoches, Texas offers convenient access to communities like Lufkin, Texas. We also offer RV financing, servicing, and parts.