Best 5th Wheel Hitches to Reduce Chucking and Improve Riding

Last Updated on April 23, 2025

You want a 5th wheel hitch that minimizes chucking and boosts ride comfort, so look for models with full articulation and shock-absorbing features like airbags or poly-torsion inserts.

The B&W Companion and CURT L05 Air Ride offer excellent stability up to 20,000 lbs. Adjustable cushioned adapters also help smooth out bumps.

Matching hitch capacity to your trailer and ensuring proper installation will make a big difference. To uncover the top picks and key specs, keep exploring.

Key Takeaways

• Fully articulating heads with polyurethane bushings significantly reduce chucking and enhance towing comfort on rough roads.
• Models with internal airbags or built-in struts effectively absorb shocks and vibrations for smoother rides.
• Selecting hitches with high load capacities (16,000 to 25,000 lbs) ensures stability and minimizes trailer sway.
• Cam action latching handles and ergonomic designs improve ease of use and secure coupling on uneven ground.
• Durable alloy or carbon steel construction with powder-coated finishes ensures long-term reliability and resistance to wear.

B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500

If you need a hitch that handles heavy loads smoothly and quietly, the B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch (RVK3500) is an excellent choice.

It features a fully articulating head that pivots front-to-back and side-to-side, reducing chucking and improving ride quality. The cam action latching handle makes coupling easy, even on uneven ground.

Polyurethane bushings ensure quiet, rattle-free towing. Built from durable alloy steel with a powder-coated finish, it supports up to 20,000 lbs GTW and 5,000 lbs VTW.

Compatible with the Turnoverball system, it offers versatile, reliable performance for your RV needs.

Best For: RV owners and heavy-duty truck users seeking a durable, quiet, and reliable fifth wheel hitch with easy coupling and versatile compatibility.

Pros:

• Fully articulating head reduces chucking and improves towing ride quality.
• Cam action latching handle allows easy coupling on uneven terrain.
• Polyurethane bushings provide quiet, rattle-free operation.

Cons:

• Assembly may require additional washers and adjustments not included in hardware.

PSAUTO Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Cushioned Trailer Hitch Adapter (12 to 16 Adjustable Height)

Towing multiple trailer types becomes simpler when you use the Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Cushioned Trailer Hitch Adapter, especially if you need adjustable height between 12 and 16 inches.

This heavy-duty alloy steel adapter converts your fifth wheel into a gooseneck hitch in minutes, extending the ball back 6-7 inches for tailgate clearance. With a powder-coated, anti-rust finish and welded steel balls, it offers durability and strength.

Easy to install and adjust, it fits various trailers and trucks, providing a solid, vibration-reducing connection. Users praise its toughness, versatility, and straightforward setup, making it a reliable towing solution.

Best For: Users needing a durable, adjustable hitch adapter to convert a fifth wheel to a gooseneck for towing multiple trailer types with ease and reliability.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty alloy steel construction with powder-coated, anti-rust finish ensures long-lasting durability.
• Adjustable height from 12 to 16 inches accommodates various towing setups and provides tailgate clearance.
• Easy installation and solid, vibration-reducing connection praised by users for versatility and toughness.

Cons:

• Anti-rattle pads may not fit perfectly, requiring additional adjustments.

CURT 16120 A16 5th Wheel Hitch, 16,000 lbs

Looking for a 5th wheel hitch that combines durability with smooth, controlled towing? The CURT 16120 A16 handles up to 16,000 lbs and features a self-resetting ergonomic handle and extra-wide head for secure coupling.

Its aluminum build with a powder-coated finish resists wear, while patented full articulation and poly-torsion inserts reduce shock loads and chucking. You’ll appreciate the simple coupling indicator and compatibility with standard base rails.

Weighing just 14.4 ounces, it’s easy to install and offers improved ride quality. Users praise its reliability, ease of use, and value—making it a smart choice for confident towing.

Best For: Experienced and occasional fifth-wheel RV owners seeking a durable, easy-to-use hitch with smooth towing performance and solid value.

Pros:

• Self-resetting ergonomic handle and clear coupling indicator simplify hookup and unhitching.
• Full articulation with poly-torsion inserts reduces shock loads, chucking, and noise for a smoother ride.
• Lightweight aluminum construction with powder-coated finish offers durability and corrosion resistance.

Cons:

• Handle is not lockable, which may be a security concern for some users.

CURT L05 Air Ride 18K Fifth Wheel Pin Box with Built-in Strut (Model 328492)

You’ll appreciate the CURT L05 Air Ride 18K Fifth Wheel Pin Box if you haul heavy trailers and want to reduce jolts and vibrations on rough roads.

Featuring internal airbags and built-in struts, this pin box softens shocks and dampens bounce using Trailair Air Ride technology, Rota-Flex pivoting head, and oil shock absorbers.

It supports up to 18,000 lbs and fits trailers between 10,000 and 16,000 lbs. Many users report smoother rides, less trailer sway, and easier towing.

Though installation can be tricky without help, the improved stability and comfort make it a smart upgrade for frequent haulers.

Best For: Frequent haulers of heavy fifth-wheel trailers seeking to reduce jolting, vibrations, and improve towing stability on rough or uneven roads.

Pros:

• Significantly reduces chucking, jarring, and trailer sway for a smoother ride.
• Supports heavy loads up to 18,000 lbs, suitable for trailers 10,000 to 16,000 lbs.
• Incorporates advanced Trailair Air Ride technology with built-in struts and shock absorbers.

Cons:

• Installation can be challenging and often requires assistance or lifting equipment.
• Difficulty adjusting air pressure and limited fore-aft chucking reduction on certain roads.

Adjustable Height Cushioned 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Adapter (C5G1216)

If you need a versatile hitch adapter that adjusts from 12 to 16 inches in height, the LoftMarte C5G1216 is designed to fit your towing setup precisely.

Made from alloy steel and aluminum with a durable powder coating, it supports up to 20,000 lbs GVW and 4,000 lbs tongue weight.

This cushioned 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter helps reduce bounce and vibration for a smoother ride. Just be sure to tighten bolts properly and consider adding spacers to prevent pipe collapse under load.

Best For: Truck owners and trailer enthusiasts who need an adjustable, cushioned 5th wheel to gooseneck hitch adapter capable of handling heavy loads with customizable height settings.

Pros:

• Adjustable height from 12 to 16 inches to fit various towing setups.
• Cushioned design reduces bounce and vibration for a smoother towing experience.
• Durable alloy steel and aluminum construction with powder coating ensures longevity.

Cons:

• May require additional modifications such as spacers to prevent pipe collapse under load.
• Proper bolt tightening is essential for safety, requiring user attention and care.

CURT 16093 A25 5th Wheel Hitch for Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD

The CURT 16093 A25 5th Wheel Hitch is perfect for drivers who own Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks with an 8-foot bed and the OEM puck system.

Rated for 25,000 lbs gross trailer weight, it installs quickly without drilling, thanks to quarter-turn anchors. You’ll appreciate its self-resetting ergonomic handle and extra-wide head that ease coupling.

Its patented head technology with poly-torsion inserts minimizes chucking, shock loads, and noise during towing.

Made from durable carbon steel with a powder-coated finish, this hitch delivers strength and corrosion resistance, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty towing.

Best For: Owners of Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks with an 8-foot bed and OEM puck system seeking a heavy-duty, easy-to-install 5th wheel hitch rated for 25,000 lbs gross trailer weight.

Pros:

• Quick, no-drill installation with quarter-turn anchors compatible with OEM puck systems.
• Patented head technology with poly-torsion inserts reduces shock loads, chucking, and noise.
• Durable carbon steel construction with powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance.

Cons:

• Heavy weight (~139.7 pounds) may require gloves and effort during handling.

Smooth Rides Ahead: Considerations When Choosing a 5th Wheel Hitch to Reduce Chucking

When choosing a 5th wheel hitch, you’ll want to focus on factors like hitch articulation range and shock absorption features to minimize chucking.

Hitch Articulation Range

Because your 5th wheel hitch needs to handle various angles between your trailer and tow vehicle, choosing one with a wide articulation range is essential to reduce chucking.

A hitch with full articulation pivots front-to-back and side-to-side, letting your trailer move smoothly over uneven terrain and tight turns. If your hitch’s articulation is limited, you’ll likely experience more bouncing and jerking, which makes towing uncomfortable and less stable.

Look for a hitch that specifies its articulation in degrees or maximum pivot angle; higher values mean better flexibility for challenging road conditions. This wider range not only smooths out movement but also helps absorb shocks, reduces stress on your trailer, and improves overall safety during your trips.

Shock Absorption Features

Wide articulation in your 5th wheel hitch lets your trailer move smoothly, but without effective shock absorption, you might still feel jerks and vibrations. Look for hitches with built-in airbags or rubberized components—they absorb fore-aft movement and vertical shocks, cutting down on chucking.

Technologies like poly-torsion inserts and oil shock absorbers are especially effective at dampening impacts, improving ride comfort and stability. These features not only reduce discomfort but also minimize wear and tear on your hitch, trailer, and towing vehicle, extending their lifespan.

When you choose a hitch with superior shock absorption, you’ll notice smoother towing, especially on rough or uneven roads, making your trips safer and more enjoyable. Prioritize shock absorption to truly enhance your towing experience.

Vertical Load Capacity

Although shock absorption plays a crucial role, choosing a 5th wheel hitch with the right vertical load capacity is equally important to reduce chucking. This capacity indicates the maximum downward force the hitch can safely handle, directly affecting your towing setup’s stability and safety.

When you select a hitch with a vertical load rating that exceeds your trailer’s gross weight, you minimize excessive movement and reduce fore-aft and up-and-down chucking. A properly rated hitch also absorbs shocks and vibrations better, smoothing out your ride and decreasing trailer sway.

To ensure effective chucking reduction and overall safety, always match your hitch’s vertical load capacity to your trailer’s weight specifications. This careful match keeps your towing experience stable and secure.

Installation and Fitment

When installing your 5th wheel hitch, aligning it properly with your truck’s mounting system is essential to reduce chucking. Make sure your hitch matches the industry-standard rails or OEM puck system already on your truck to ensure a secure fit.

Adjust the hitch height to align with your trailer’s kingpin, usually within 12 to 16 inches, to minimize unwanted movement. Verify the hitch’s weight capacity exceeds your trailer’s gross weight to maintain stability.

Use compatible hardware and tighten bolts to manufacturer torque specifications to avoid loose fittings that cause chucking.

Finally, position the hitch correctly on the truck bed, checking side-to-side and front-to-back alignment for the best fit. Proper installation directly improves your towing experience by reducing trailer sway and enhancing ride quality.

Materials and Durability

Proper installation sets the foundation, but the materials and durability of your 5th wheel hitch play a major role in reducing chucking during towing. You’ll want a hitch made from alloy steel or heavy-duty aluminum for strength and long-lasting performance under heavy loads.

Look for finishes like powder coating or anti-rust treatments that protect against corrosion and environmental damage. Hitches featuring polyurethane bushings or similar vibration-dampening materials help reduce stress on moving parts, extending the hitch’s lifespan.

Also, prioritize models with reinforced welds and solid construction to prevent cracking or failure during demanding conditions. Choosing materials known for toughness and fatigue resistance guarantees your hitch maintains structural integrity, which directly improves ride quality and minimizes chucking over time.

Compatibility With Vehicles

How do you guarantee your 5th wheel hitch works seamlessly with your vehicle to reduce chucking? Start by ensuring the hitch matches your truck’s bed system—whether puck, rail, or under-bed mounts.

Next, check that its weight capacity meets or exceeds your trailer’s gross weight and vertical load. Confirm the hitch’s installation and mounting points fit your specific truck make and model.

Also, verify compatibility with any existing kingpin or gooseneck setups to secure a proper connection. Finally, prioritize hitches offering full articulation and shock absorption features; these designs minimize chucking and enhance ride stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Lubricate My 5th Wheel Hitch?

You should lubricate your 5th wheel hitch regularly to keep it working smoothly. Ideally, apply grease before every trip or at least every 500 miles. This prevents metal-on-metal wear and reduces noise and chucking while you’re driving.

Don’t forget to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations. Keeping your hitch well-maintained ensures a safer, smoother ride and extends the life of your equipment.

Can I Install a 5th Wheel Hitch Myself?

Installing a 5th wheel hitch yourself is like piecing together a sturdy puzzle you need patience and the right tools. You can definitely tackle this project if you follow the instructions carefully and have a helper.

It involves drilling into your truck bed and securely mounting the hitch, so precision is key. If you’re comfortable with basic mechanical tasks and safety precautions, you’ll find the process rewarding and save some installation costs.

What Is the Weight Capacity Difference Between 5th Wheel and Gooseneck Hitches?

You’ll find that gooseneck hitches generally have a higher weight capacity than 5th wheel hitches. Goosenecks can often handle loads around 30,000 to 40,000 pounds, while 5th wheel hitches typically max out between 15,000 and 25,000 pounds.

This means if you’re hauling heavier trailers, a gooseneck might be better. However, your choice depends on your specific towing needs and truck compatibility.

Are 5th Wheel Hitches Compatible With All Truck Models?

Picture fitting a puzzle piece perfectly into your truck bed that’s how 5th wheel hitches should align with your vehicle. However, not all trucks are made equal.

While many full-size pickups accommodate 5th wheel hitches, compatibility depends on your truck’s bed size, frame, and mounting system. You’ll want to verify your truck’s specifications and possibly opt for a custom installation to guarantee a secure and safe fit every time.

How Do Weather Conditions Affect 5th Wheel Hitch Performance?

Weather conditions can substantially impact your 5th wheel hitch performance. Rain, snow, and moisture can cause rust or corrosion if your hitch isn’t properly maintained, leading to stiffness or reduced movement.

Cold temperatures might make metal parts contract, affecting fit and function. Dirt and grime from wet conditions can clog moving parts, so you’ll want to clean and lubricate your hitch regularly to keep it working smoothly regardless of the weather.

From Bumps to Bliss: Upgrade Your Ride Quality

Choosing the right 5th wheel hitch is like finding the perfect anchor for your journey steady, reliable, and built to smooth out the roughest roads. With these top picks designed to reduce chucking and improve ride quality, you’re not just towing; you’re crafting a seamless adventure.

So, trust your hitch to carry more than weight, let it carry peace of mind, turning every mile into a promise of comfort and control on the open road.

Last update on 2025-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API