Troubleshooting Back and Forth Movement When Taking Off or Stopping Towing 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 05/01/2020 | Published 04/30/2020

Question:

Hi there. I just purchased a used 2011 fifth wheel and a used Reese 16k slider hitch.My problem is when I take off or slow down or stop I feel a lot of slack or thump,enough to feel it.Is there a way to adjust this or how do I fix this issue.I know that there should be some play but I think this might be a little to much.Thought please ? Thanks

asked by: Paul

Expert Reply:

The problem might be that you have an entry-level 5th wheel hitch that has minimal features that help to cushion that chucking that you're feeling. If it's an older Reese 16K with a slide bar jaw like the Pro Series PS30093 then it makes sense what you're describing. It doesn't have adequate cushioning for the head movement and the slide bar jaw basically just keeps the king pin in the hitch but doesn't really hold it secured and keep it from moving.

The Reese 16K # RP30047 would be a bit of an upgrade. But big step up would be the Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30928 which has a superior jaw and cushioned system that would greatly improve the quality of your towing setup.

Another possible solution is that your brake controller might need to be adjusted as well to help slow down the trailer in tandem with your pickup truck. If you can change the boost setting it would help to try that and see what kind of improvement you get.

expert reply by: Jon G