Should The Jaws Of The Curt PowerRide 5th Wheel Hitch Be Left Open Or Closed When Not In Use

Updated 12/15/2025 | Published 11/15/2024

Question:

when not in use for a long period of time do i leave jaws open or closed on my 30k power ride

asked by: Mark W

Expert Reply:

Hey Mark,

It honestly just comes down to personal preference so you can choose to leave them open or closed based on your needs. Most people tend to either close the jaws and try to lock them so no one can use the hitch or they leave it open and ready to couple to make hooking up the trailer the next time easier. My only advice would be to protect the hitch from the element regardless of whether you leave the jaws open or closed. Whether its a tonneau cover over the bed of the truck, storing the hitch in the house or a shed, or even just placing a tarp over it to protect the hitch from rain/snow/etc. will help keep the hitch in good working order.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Jesse M.

12/15/2025

Hey Mark, how did things go with storing your PowerRide hitch during the off-season? Your experience could help others figure out the best way to protect theirs when it’s not in use.

Mark W.

12/15/2025

@JesseM Jesse in my case i close the jaws and is stored in my shed out of the elements plus it's easier to handle when i separate the head from the main body

Jesse M.

12/15/2025

@MarkW Ok cool thanks for sharing! Good call throwing it in the shed to keep it dry and out of the elements. That will definitely help prolong the life of your hitch. Makes sense in that case to just close the jaws. Feel free to come back if you ever need anything else!