Troubleshooting B&W Patriot 18k 5th Wheel Hitch Jaws That Aren't Fully Opening
Question:
on my bandw 18000 hitch when on hooking does no seem like jaws are opening all the way any recomendations
asked by: Thomas B
Expert Reply:
Hey Thomas,
the jaws of the B&W Patriot head # BWRVC3200 should spread apart roughly 2-1/4" fully open. If you just open the locking handle the jaws will spread about 2" and then once weight presses on the jaws they'll open that last 1/4" to allow the king pin to couple. If you're having issues with the jaws opening then I would check for any debris that could potentially be causing the jaws to bind and then grease the jaws using the grease zerk fitting on the bottom of the hitch head (pictured below).
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Head Assembly for B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - 18,000 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Head
- Head Assembly
- Patriot
- B and W
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: Adapting B&W Patriot 5TH Wheel Hitch For GM Factory Puck System On a 2023 GMC Sierra 3500HD
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Q&A: How to Convert Older B and W Companion 3000 to Newer Style Companion
- Q&A: Which Replacement Head For B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitch For B&W Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Q&A: Are All Ford Factory Puck System Dimensions the Same
- Q&A: Parts Needed For Brake Controller Installation On a 2021 Ford E-450 Cutaway Chassis For Class C RV
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Information and Installation Tips
- Article: Sidewinder with Rotating Turret for Short Bed Pickups
- Article: Guide to Choosing the Best Truck for 5th-Wheel Towing
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)