Closing Jaws on Curt A16 5th Wheel Hitch

Updated 04/27/2020 | Published 08/23/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs

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$1234.95

Question:

Hello, I just finished installing the A16 hitch in my 2018 Silverado with the factory puck system. I pulled the handle to check operation and it opened to the ready to couple position just fine. My question is how do I get it to reset to closed since I wont be picking up my fifth wheel for another two weeks? Thanks

asked by: Mark B

Expert Reply:

To get your Curt A16 5th Wheel Sliding Hitch # C16521 or A16 fixed hitch # C16520-16025 to close the jaws, you simply need to apply pressure to the back of the jaws where the king pin would connect. Do not use your hand for this as you could get injured, but you can use a section of tubing or a large wrench or screwdriver for instance to allow the pressure to close your jaws.

The only reason to close your jaws is to keep tension off the springs in the head but even in a worst case scenario leaving the jaws open for 2 weeks won't damage your hitch.

expert reply by: Jason S

Allen B.

4/25/2020

I cannot disconnect my fifth wheel from the hitch Curt Q16. The jaws will not open. How do I get them open

Chris R.

4/27/2020

When this type of issue comes up it's usually just a matter of adjusting the trailer's line or nose height. Make sure the trailer is as straight as possible behind the truck - if it's at any kind of angle it could make unhitching extremely difficult. Also check the nose height of the trailer. It may just be riding a bit too low (or high) preventing it from smoothly pulling out of the jaws. You might try lowering the jacks just a bit to see if it helps. Just let me know if this doesn't work and we will go from there!