A 5th wheel hitch is installed to tow RV trailers to carry an extra load. It provides smooth and stable towing and comes in a variety of weight options to suit your RVing needs.
But is a 5th wheel hitch installation cost? What are the different types available? In this article, we will answer several questions about installing a 5th wheel hitch, so keep on reading.
What is a 5th Wheel Hitch Installation Cost?
If you have an RV trailer or camper that is capable of towing another truck, installing a 5th wheel hitch will be a perfect addition. This is a device that supports the weight of a trailer and allows it to be securely towed. In addition, it distributes the weight of your cargo or another truck evenly to guarantee stable towing.
There are two options available when you’re installing a new hitch. You can either have the hitch installed in a shop or do this by yourself if you’re confident about your installation skills.
The cheaper option would be to shop for the hitch and install it yourself. You can get an excellent 5th wheel hitch for a price between $200 and $1000, depending on its type, and you need to buy a kit for $100. If you choose to install the hitch at a shop, you can expect to pay between $800 and $2000.
Unless you have the right tools and the necessary knowledge to install the hitch by yourself, you should hire someone else to do the job. This will be a better option as you can save time and guarantee that the hitch is properly installed.
How Long Does it Take to Install a Hitch?
If you have all the needed tools, you can install the hitch in a time between 3 and 6 hours. In some cases, you might need to do some extra work by removing parts to install the hitch properly. However, if you’re trying to get the job done quickly, it’s best to hire a professional who can do the job faster.
Kinds of 5th Wheel Hitches
There are 3 different types of hitches on the market. Each one of them comes with a different jaw design to hold the hitch in its place.
Slide Bar
This is the least expensive option, but it’s also noisy. However, it’s safe and reliable and will work for you if you’re on a tight budget.
Double Jaw
This hitch is smooth and secures your trailer properly. It’s also less noisy than a slide bar, but it’s more expensive.
Single Jaw
This provides the smoothest towing with almost no movement as the jaw secures your trailer in place. Some users also choose a hitch with vibration dampeners for a noise-free to tow with any load conveniently. This is the most expensive type.
How to Choose the Best Hitch
In addition to your budget and type of hitch, there are a few factors that you should consider before buying one for towing your trailer.
Maximum Capacity
Make sure that you don’t exceed the maximum weight capacity of your trailer. Pick a hitch that doesn’t add much weight to your vehicle and can easily tow your cargo and support its weight.
Ease of Installation
It’s essential to pick a hitch that’s compatible with your truck or RV’s brand, so you can easily install it. This factor is crucial, especially if you choose to install the hitch by yourself. If you’re going to buy an installation kit, make sure that it contains all the tools you’ll need to complete the installation process. Otherwise, you will spend more time getting your hitch ready.
Mounting Style
There are two different mounting styles available. Older hitches can be installed under the truck bed, and these are more difficult to install. Today most modern hitches use a rail system for mounting, and it’s more suitable for DIY lovers.
How to Install a 5th Wheel Hitch
Once you’ve bought the right 5th wheel hitch to secure your trailer, you will be ready to have it installed. You can always hire someone to do the job if you don’t want to do it yourself. However, if you decide to install the hitch as a DIY project, you need to follow the following steps.
- Remove the spare tire of your truck or RV. This will allow you to expose the part where you install the hitch.
- Position the front base rail to secure the hitch.
- Mark the first location where you need to drill a hole.
- Check the pilot hole under the truck or RV, and drill the remaining holes to begin the installation process.
- Enlarge the bolt holes to secure the hitch properly.
- Bolt in the under-bed brackets, then secure the front 5th wheel-rail.
- Measure the hitch’s height.
- Attach the legs, then drill holes to secure the rear base rail.
- Install the remaining bolts.
- Secure the 5th wheel hitch by torquing all the hardware.
Best 5th Wheel Hitches
If you’re considering buying a new hitch for your truck or RV, there are several models that you can choose from.
The CURT 16140 A20 5th Wheel Hitch is a double jaw hitch that works for most trailers and RVs. It’s designed to handle a gross weight of 20,000 pounds. The hitch is designed to reduce shock loads and noise at the coupling point. You can easily secure it to any 5th wheelbase rail.
If you need to tow a bigger load, we recommend that you take a look at the Reese Elite 30871 Fifth Wheel. This is a single jaw hitch that provides more stability. The 4-degree side pivot allows for better control when you’re maneuvering the trailer or truck. Also, thanks to the wider footprint, this hitch provides more stability.
Wrap Up
Installing a 5th wheel hitch allows you to tow loads without affecting the maneuverability of your trailer or truck. The cost of installing a hitch depends on whether you choose to shop for one and install it on your own or prefer to hire a professional to do the job.