Should B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch be Above Rear Axle or Forward of It

Updated 05/08/2017 | Published 05/05/2017

Question:

On my BandW Companion, should the pivet/coupler head be above the rear axle or forward of it, thanks

asked by: Peter L

Expert Reply:

The location of the hitch ball hole that the B&W Companion # BWRVK3500-5W referenced in your question will mount onto will be 49-1/2 inches when measuring from the tailgate end of your truck bed up towards the cab. The actual Companion 5th-Wheel location can then be adjusted front to back as well as up and down using the pivot arms, depending on the height or clearance you will need for your trailer.

Ideally, the center of the Companion will be directly above or slightly forward of the rear axle on your Silverado, but according to B&W, it can also be slightly behind, if needed. With the adjustability of the B&W Companion, there isn't really a right answer to your question - it will just depend on what works best for your particular trailer and truck. As long as the underbed installation kit and gooseneck hitch head is installed correctly, the Companion will work great however you decide to adjust the pivot legs.

I have also attached an image that shows you the various adjustments that can be made with the pivot legs on this product.

expert reply by: Chris R