Fore and Aft Movement of the Reese M5 Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch on a 2011 Ford F-350

Updated 11/16/2012 | Published 11/14/2012

Question:

I have a 2011 F350 with factory hitch and the Reese 27K and it pops on take off and it pops when stopping. It seems to be slop between the hitch and the reciever. is the re a spacer that can be used between the reciever and the hitch, and does anyone else have a similer problem. And a possible fix. Thanks

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

I believe the popping noise that you are referring to is the fore and aft movement at the fifth wheel head/cross section of your # RP30922. The M5 series hitches have about a 1/2 inch movement where the head attaches to the center section. We have spoken to Reese several times regarding questions about this movement and they said there is no need for concern because the hitch was designed with this movement.

I have attached a video that one of our customers submitted showing the fore and aft movement of the hitch.

If the popping noise you are talking about is at the feet where the legs attach to the under bed rails, then you may need to tighten the feet to eliminate the extra movement and providing tighter fit in the pucks in your truck bed.

expert reply by: John H