Does a 5th Wheel Hitch Have to Mount Directly Above the Rear Axle?

Updated 03/24/2024 | Published 03/23/2024

Question:

I have a flat deck truck Do you have to mount Fifth Wheel directly over axle ? If I do I am 42inch from end of the flatdeck .

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

Yes, it does! The center of the king pin of a 5th wheel trailer needs to be centered over the rear axle. If you had the hitch and the pin weight behind the rear axle you would unload the front axle and make braking and handling dangerous.

The Demco Recon Gooseneck-to-5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter for Recessed Ball item # DM8550046, you were looking at, is designed for flat bed trucks with recessed wells. The top of the gooseneck ball must be 13/16" or closer to the top of the truck bed for the hitch to install.

expert reply by: Jerred H