Can a Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch be Installed Behind Rear Axle of Truck

Published 09/11/2014

Question:

I have an International 2700 tow vehicle rated at 20,000lb GVW. I want to conserve bed space and mount my 5th wheel hitch as far back on the bed as possible. I read your article about placing the weight forward of the axle to ensure the trailer does not reduce traction on the front wheels. But given the size of the truck and that tongue weights are on the order of 4000lb I thought it would be reasonable. I am used to having a 1k tongue weight on a 12K travel trailer which has a much longer lever arm to the axle line. I can at least come 1/4th the distance with a 4klb tongue weight with no difference in front tire traction. Your thoughts.

asked by: Gerald

Expert Reply:

I can't safely recommend you install your fifth wheel trailer hitch behind the rear axle of your truck. Generally the fit information and install tips we offer are geared more for light duty trucks. Not for a vehicle as large as yours.

Secondly, I am not really sure what is going on in the picture you submitted, but that is a pretty strange looking truck. You have photoshop skills though.

I would recommend you consult someone a shop who installs fifth wheel trailers on semi trucks to see what would work best for your setup.

expert reply by: Jameson C