Can the Jaws on the Curt E16 5th Wheel Hitch Be Adjusted

Updated 03/19/2019 | Published 03/17/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(607)

$375.63

Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(216)

$736.95

Question:

Can you tell me if the jaws are adjustable. My hitch has about a half inch of play.

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

The slide bar locking jaw on the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # C16115 is not adjustable. Unfortunately, the play that you have between the slide bar and kingpin is common with the slide bar locking jaw system as they just don't grip the kingpin as tightly. The play between the slide bar and kingpin is not really a security concern but it will attribute to excessive chucking.

The option I have for you to grip the kingpin tighter which will in turn reduce chucking is to switch to a dual locking jaw design. For this, I recommend the Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # C16120 which actually has an interlocking 1" thick dual locking jaw design which will do an even better job of holding the kingpin than just the standard dual locking jaws. The Curt A16 also has a one pin head removal system, which allows for one person to remove the system easily by themselves. The other nice feature is the indicator system that lets you know when you are ready to uncouple, couple, or tow.

In regards to fit, the Curt A16 will be a direct swap for the Cut E16 as they use the same base rails. The Curt E16 that you have now could then be sold to help offset some of the cost.

expert reply by: Conner L