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A secure connection between your fifth-wheel trailer and tow vehicle is essential for safe towing. Use this guide alongside the instructions for your specific trailer and fifth-wheel hitch, since hitch designs and locking procedures vary.
Park the tow vehicle and trailer on firm, level ground. Set the tow vehicle’s parking brake and chock the trailer wheels to prevent movement. Keep the landing gear down to support the front of the trailer during hookup. Make sure the stabilizer jacks are retracted.
Before hitching, confirm that the tow vehicle, hitch, and trailer are properly matched and within their weight ratings.
Lower or remove the truck’s tailgate if needed for clearance. Open the fifth-wheel hitch jaws or move the locking mechanism into its ready-to-couple position, following the hitch manufacturer’s instructions.
Check that the hitch and locking parts are clean and undamaged. Keep everyone clear of the space between the truck and trailer, and never stand beneath the trailer’s kingpin area during hookup.
Use a spotter if available. Back the truck slowly until the fifth-wheel hitch is aligned with the trailer’s kingpin. Stop before contact and set the truck’s parking brake.
Adjust the landing gear to position the kingpin at the height specified by the hitch manufacturer. The kingpin should slide into the hitch opening; it must not rest on top of the hitch plate.
Confirm the hitch jaws are open and ready to receive the kingpin. Back the truck slowly until the kingpin enters the hitch and seats fully. Stop, place the truck in park, and set the parking brake.
Close or engage the hitch’s locking mechanism as directed by its manufacturer. Secure the handle with the provided safety pin or clip.
Visually inspect the hitch to confirm the jaws or locking bar are fully engaged around the kingpin. Check the hitch’s coupling indicator if it has one. Do not rely on the handle position alone.
If the kingpin is not fully seated or the lock status is unclear, do not continue. Follow the hitch manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions and repeat the hookup.
Plug the trailer’s 7-way cord into the truck and route it so it has enough slack for turns without dragging or snagging.
Attach the breakaway switch cable to a secure point on the truck that is separate from the hitch and any safety chains. Confirm the breakaway switch pin is in place. If your trailer is equipped with safety chains, or they are required for your setup, attach them to the designated points as directed by the manufacturers.
With the trailer wheels chocked and the landing gear still down, perform the pull test exactly as described in the fifth-wheel hitch manual. The test checks that the kingpin is securely locked into the hitch before the trailer’s weight is placed fully on the connection.
If the connection does not pass the test, stop and repeat the hitching and inspection steps. Do not retract the landing gear or remove the wheel chocks until the connection is confirmed.
After the connection passes the pull test, fully retract the landing gear and stabilizer jacks. Close or reinstall the tailgate only if there is adequate clearance from the trailer and hitch. Remove the wheel chocks when you are ready to travel.
With help from another person, check the running lights, turn signals, and brake lights. Check reverse lights if the trailer is equipped with them. In a safe, open area, test the trailer brakes at low speed using the brake controller and the manufacturers’ instructions.
A final walk-around can help catch loose connections or equipment left in place before you head out. Always follow the instructions for your specific fifth-wheel trailer, hitch, and brake controller. Safe travels!
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be true and accurate at the time of publication. However, due to the evolving nature of our products and services, there may be changes or updates that occur after this article was published. We encourage users to verify the contents and consult with their dealer or Keystone RV for the most current information. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or reach out to Keystone RV directly.