How does a fifth wheel hitch work?

The “fifth wheel” refers to the U-shaped coupling mounted onto the cargo bed of the towing truck. It is similar to the device found on over-the-road tractors hauling commercial semi-trailers. A pin-box on the front of the fifth wheel camping trailer locks onto the fifth wheel coupling in the truck, allowing for left and right rotation as well as up and down movement.

Can fifth wheels be converted to a gooseneck?

A gooseneck is a type of hitch commonly found on farm and construction equipment. Fifth wheel RVs are equipped with a trailer pin box that attaches to the fifth wheel hitch mounted to the truck bed. Before converting the fifth wheel to a gooseneck system, check your RV owner’s manual or with your dealer. A gooseneck hitch applies different forces to the trailer frame and may void your RV warranty.

Which fifth wheels come with generators?

Typically, larger fifth wheels designed for extended use offer factory-installed generator options. Many toy hauler fifth wheels also come equipped with a generator. The “pass-through” storage bay located beneath the front overhang of a fifth wheel makes for an ideal generator mounting location.

How much do fifth wheels weigh and how are they measured?

Fifth wheel weights vary depending on the make, model and floor plan. Models can range from 6,000 pounds up to 14,000 pounds, dry weight. Fifth wheel measurements are commonly taken from pin box to rear bumper.

Are fifth wheels easier to tow?

While fifth wheels are usually larger and heavier than a pull-behind travel trailer, many experienced RV enthusiasts consider a fifth wheel easier to tow. The reason is that on a fifth wheel, the hitch weight of the RV is placed over the rear wheels of the tow vehicle, making for a more stable towing platform. Compare this to a conventional travel trailer, in which the hitch weight is located behind the rear wheels of the tow vehicle. Additionally, since the front portion of the fifth wheel hangs over the truck bed, the overall length of the tow vehicle and RV may be shorter than with similarly sized pull-behind trailer.

What Is a Fifth Wheel RV and What Do They Offer?

All About Fifth Wheel RVs

Popular among RVers who travel extensively, fifth wheels are designed for easier, more stable towing. Living space is maximized with additional over-cab space. This camping trailer—affectionately nicknamed a "fiver"—is a favorite of many, especially those taking extended trips in their RV. The prominent overhang resting above the tow truck bed is frequently employed as a bedroom suite, a living room, even a kitchen.

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Interior

Features & Specs

Weight

Approx. 8,860 - 20,860 lbs

Length

Approx. 35' - 46'

Slideouts

Up to 3

Sleep Capacity

Up to 12

Dutchmen Astoria

Keystone Cougar

Heartland Milestone

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Heartland RV

Corterra Fifth Wheel

Sleeps 1 - 8
Length 34' 9 1/2" - 41' 9 1/2"
Weight 10450 - 12655 lbs

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Cruiser RV

Essence

Sleeps 1 - 6
Length 28' 9 1/2" - 32' 9 1/2"
Weight 7808 - 8746 lbs

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DRV

Mobile Suites

Sleeps 1 - 4
Length 38' 7" - 46' 0 "
Weight 16600 - 20860 lbs

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Jayco

Eagle HT Fifth Wheel

Sleeps 1 - 10
Length 29' 5" - 34' 8"
Weight 8010 - 9205 lbs

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Highland Ridge

Open Range 3X Fifth Wheel

Sleeps 1 - 9
Length 42' 7" - 42' 7"
Weight 16995 - 16995 lbs

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Starcraft RV

GSL Fifth Wheel

Sleeps 1 - 8
Length 32' 6" - 39' 7"
Weight 9680 - 11085 lbs

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Keystone RV

Montana

Sleeps 1 - 8
Length 35' 1" - 42' 7"
Weight 12482 - 15267 lbs

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Venture RV

SportTrek 5 Touring Edition

Length 37' - 39' 10"
Weight 11210 - 12200 lbs

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KZ RV

Durango Gold

Sleeps 1 - 8
Length 35' 6" - 42' 5"
Weight 11650 - 13420 lbs

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Dutchmen

Astoria

Sleeps 1 - 10
Length 30' 0" - 39' 11"
Weight 7880 - 11187 lbs

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All About Fifth Wheel RVs