Can the Ranch Hitch Coupler Adapter # AM3100 be Bolted to the Pin Box Plate

Updated 03/14/2018 | Published 03/12/2018

Question:

My fifth wheel is very long and narrow and seems impossible to reach in to place the nuts on the bolts. Its a 2006 255BHS Prowler by Fleetwood. It it acceptable to thread the king pin plate and bolt into just the plate? Please advise

asked by: Dave D

Expert Reply:

Step 8 in the instructions for the Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter # AM3100 states the following:

8) Locate the grade 8 bolts, lock washers, nuts and your drill and bit. There are eight holes drilled in the Ranch Hitch Adapter Base, but only four need to be used. You will be responsible to choose which 4 holes will be used to accept the Grade 8 Bolts; try to evenly spread the load as much as possible. Take care to locate the bolts where they will not interfere with any gusseting that might be inside the pin box. Drill the four holes. Insert the bolts into each hole and secure with a lock washer and nut. Tighten to 55 ft-lbs. Some pin boxes are enclosed and-cannot be accessed for placement of the washers and nuts. In this case, or in any other application, the Grade 8 Bolts can be replaced by 4 one-inch tack welds placed by a certified welder. (NOTE: drilling and tapping the pin box metal to accept the grade 8 bolts will not offer sufficient strength and is not acceptable.)

As you can see from the installation instructions, you should not bolt the adapter just to the plate of your king pin. It is extremely important when dealing with heavier trailer weights to follow all instructions completely to avoid harm to yourself or those around you.

expert reply by: Jon G