Should a 16K 5th Wheel Hitch be Rated for Over the GVWR of a Trailer

Updated 06/15/2018 | Published 06/14/2018

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Dual Jaw - 18,000 lbs

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B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 18,000 lbs

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Question:

When deciding on Fifth wheel hitch, the hitch should cover the RV GVWR, correct? For instance if fifth wheel GVWR is 15,682, then the hitch should be the Reese Pro Series 16K?

asked by: Stephen T

Expert Reply:

You definitely want to make sure that your hitch (5th wheel and/or bumper pull) is rated for more than the GVWR of your trailer. If you had a bumper pull that was rated a few hundred pounds over the GVWR of your trailer then I would say that you are good but since 5th wheel towing is with heavier trailers I recommend using a 5th wheel hitch that is rated for at least 1,000 lbs more than your GVWR. Yes technically the 16K can handle the weight of your 15,682 lb GVWR but it will put a lot more stress on the hitch itself since you are continually pushing it to the max.

Unless you plan on keeping your 5th wheel trailer loaded more towards the 15K range I recommend using a 5th wheel hitch rated for 18K. If you have a short bed you need a sliding 5th wheel hitch like the B&W Patriot # BWRVK3270 and if you have a long bed you need a stationary 5th wheel hitch like the B&W Patriot # BWRVK3255. Both of these are compatible with industry standard base rails.

Attached are some review videos, installation details, and a helpful article for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G