Fifth Wheel Hitch Types

[jrshall]

Looks like I will be getting a new 5er hitch. My current one, a Reese 16k, has some damage and I would like to replace it. I see Reese makes a hitch with twin jaws like mine and also a hitch with a single jaw. They also make one with serrated twin jaws.

Anybody out there have any thoughts on the pros and cons of the different designs? So far I am unable to find any good explanation of why the different designs.

Jerry

[EdJunior]

I have a Curt, that has the twin jaws (like insect pinchers), and have had no problems with it. I can see an advantage to one with a single jaw that would fully enclose around the kingpin, but just haven't heard of too many incidents of the jaws popping open. And even with the single jaw design, there is still that chance it could let loose. It will be interesting to see how this one plays out.

[67redbowtie]

Look at the B&W patriot.

[Cajun Po-Boy]

You can't go wrong with either design (wrap around or pincher style)...shop for a quality product with these designs you like and go with it.
If I was getting a Reese with pincher style design...IMO, R16 looks pretty good.
Good Luck!