Why is There a Gap Between the Jaws on my Reese 16K 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider

Updated 10/09/2018 | Published 10/08/2018

Question:

when I connect to my camper the jaws on the hitch have about 1/4inch gap between the two jaws when closed. is this ok or should they be touching and if so how do you adjust. Reese 16000 slider.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

I spoke to my contact at Reese about your Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider part # RP30051 and they informed me that the 1/4" gap between the jaws is normal with the trailer coupled. The reason for this is because the diameter inside the jaws while uncoupled is less than 2" which is the diameter of the kingpin therefore a gap must be present while coupled. The space can be anywhere from 1/4" - 5/16". You should not have any concerns with your 5th wheel hitch in regards to the gap between the jaws as this seems perfectly normal.

expert reply by: Conner L