Does Demco Recon Fifth Wheel Hitch Make Noise When Towing

Updated 06/05/2019 | Published 06/04/2019

Question:

I bought a 2005 F-250 used that has an Atwood folding gooseneck. Im looking to buy a 5th wheel toy hauler, and looking at options. I see the Recon is recommended on a lot of your posts, but Im seeing a number of posts about noise - clunking under braking, starting, curbs, bumps, etc. Is this a function of a bad installation, or just normal for that adapter? Looking at the Recon installation manual, I dont see how the adapter wont spin on the ball? Is the ball replaced with one that has a hole for a pin? I looks like the pin goes through the socket under the ball preventing it from lifting, but not spinning. Additionally, it looks like Atwood is no longer in business, where can I buy a replacement ball for my hitch current one is a bit rusty and shows a good bit of wear. Finally, the manual doesnt state - do I have to cut away the bed liner so that the entire footprint of the Recon is on metal?

asked by: Rob T

Helpful Expert Reply:

We did have one customer come back and say there was some noise with the Demco Recon part # DM8550045 while towing but most have reported back that it worked well for them without noise mentioned at all. I wouldn't say this has a reputation for being noisy overall.

A set screw secures the hitch to the ball to help prevent the hitch from turning on the ball but what really helps prevent the hitch from turning is all of the weight of the trailer pushing down on the hitch which then allows the bed of the truck to hold the base of the hitch from turning as well.

You do not replace the ball of your hitch with one included. Your Atwood ball will work great as-is.

Atwood has been out of business for some time now so there isn't a way to get a replacement ball for your setup.

I attached a review video for this hitch for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C