Is it Possible to Adjust Jaws on Curt Q16 5th Wheel Hitch

Updated 09/20/2024 | Published 07/21/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(214)

$736.95

Curt Lube Plate for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 10" Diameter

(454)

$12.79

Question:

I bought a Q16 from you about 2 months ago. The first time I used it was perfect. This time I noticed some slack in the jaws when I would brake and then accelerate. When I got home I checked and the kingpin can move forward and rearward about a half an inch. Is there an adjustment to remove the slack from the jaws?

asked by: Jeff M

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Curt about your Curt Q16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, part # C16120, and he said a little play is to be expected in order for the pin to rotate freely. So the jaws should not fit too tightly around the king pin. The jaws are operated by springs. The first time you used your 5th wheel hitch the springs may have been a little stiff. By the second time you used the 5th wheel you likely loosened up the springs and the jaws, resulting in the play you noticed.

Also if you have an older trailer the king pin may have worn down a little. This could cause more play.

There is no adjustment to be made to the springs/jaws to take up the slack, but you may want to use a lube plate like part # 16721, if you are already not doing so.

expert reply by: Chris O

Lee K.

9/20/2024

A lube plate will not make any difference in the slack. I've had this hitch for about 7 years now and have about an inch of play. From day one, it was banging at stops and when taking off, very annoying. Not very good specs.