5th Wheel Hitch Comparisons for a 2012 Ford F-250 Short Bed

Question:

there are 5 reese 5 wheel hitch I found in the pro series is price a difference they range in price. this is my first camper just want to make sure I buy the right equipment for which Im towing GVWR is 14210 it is a 2011 Blue Ridge 29 rk hoping to find out the pro an cons sometime more money spent is not always better

asked by: Peter G

Expert Reply:

The biggest difference between the different Pro-Series hitches that you referenced will be the jaw design and the slider design.

The jaw designs range from the economy slide-bar jaw which will make the most noise while towing, the middle of the road standard double jaw which will offer a quieter ride, and finally the premium single-hook jaw that will offer the quietest ride.

And then for the slider design there are square tube sliders and round tube sliders. The square-tube sliders work well, but the round-tube ones have a tendency to roll easier due to the shape of the tubes as well as provide 2 inches more of travel.

When making the decision on which hitch to buy I would consider how often you plan on towing. If you only are planning a couple small trips per year your money would be best invested in the more economical Pro-Series Hitch and Rails # PS30094 and # RP50073-58.

If you plan on towing more than a couple times, but not all the time I would go with a middle of the road hitch and rails like the Reese Hitch and Rails part # RP30051 and part # RP50073-58.

If you will be towing a lot and putting a lot of miles on the trailer I would go with a Reese R16 Hitch and Rails part # RP30869 and # RP30035. This hitch as a round tube slider, uses a premium double jaw with geared teeth that ensures even, secure closure for full 360 degrees of contact which will greatly reduce chucking and is cushioned to help reduce noise and chucking.

I attached an FAQ article on fifth wheel hitches for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C