Forward and Backward Movement of Curt Fifth Wheel Hitch # C16546 on 2012 Dodge Ram 3500 Dually

Updated 12/04/2012 | Published 11/28/2012

Question:

Is it normal to have about 1/4inch movement + or - when slowly pulling forward and than going backward?? Movement between curt hitch and 5th wheel pin.? Thank you Truck Year 2012, Dodge, 3500 Dual rear wheels, 4x4 Diesel

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

If this noise occurs during starts and stops or any time there may be back and forth movement of the trailer then it is normal to get some metal to metal contact as the trailer king pin bumps around in the jaws of the hitch. The dual jaw design of the Curt Fifth Wheel Hitch, part # C16546, is secure but it is not so tight that it will eliminate all movement.

The movement that you are referring to is the fore and aft movement at the fifth wheel head/cross section. Some fifth wheel hitches might have about a 1/2 inch movement where the head attaches to the center section. You should not have a problem if you have around 1/4-inch movement on your Curt hitch.

We have spoken to the fifth wheel manufacturers regarding questions about this movement and they said there is no need for concern because the hitch was designed with this movement.

expert reply by: Jeff D