Proper Position of 5th Wheel King Pin In Relation to Rear Axle of Chevy Silverado

Published 03/02/2018

Question:

Hello, I recently purchased a universal bracket kit and hardware to install my existing Reece Rails. The truck getting the hitch is a 2006 Chevrolet 2500hd crew cab with a 6.5 foot box. I will be pulling a 2002 Cougar 5th wheel. How far ahead of the axle should the king pin be? Thank you,

asked by: Ken D

Expert Reply:

With any truck, the fifth wheel trailer's king pin should be positioned directly above or just slightly ahead of the rear axle centerline. The exact placement will depend on which installation kit you are using. If you were to place the king pin behind the axle, it can potentially lighten the load on the front axle to the point of reducing the steering and braking response when towing.

For example, if you have the Reese Universal Rails # RP30035, it states that the king pin should be centered directly over the rear axle on your Chevy Silverado. I have attached the written installation instructions for these base rails that you can use for reference if this is what you have.

expert reply by: Chris R