new to fifth wheel

[hunt973]

hello all,
we have had a salem tt but we are going down saterday to pick up are fifth wheel. Since we are new to 5th wheels, I was wondering if any one had any good idea's, or things to watch out for. thanks for all your time

brad

[RustyJC]

I see that this is your first post. Welcome to iRV2 , and congratulations on the new 5th wheel

If you'll go to the main menu page and scroll down to the forum below this one (5th Wheel Discussion), there's a wealth of historical information. Scroll down through the topics and you'll find any number of threads started by individuals who were new to 5th wheels and looking for input, suggestions and information.

If you have any specific questions, be sure and post them up. We'll do our best to answer them.

Rusty

[IC2]

There are several things too watch for, but probably low over heads like gas stations and trees. Then the fact that a 5er does turn faster then a TT with obstacles "jumping" out at tires and the side. Pulling across drainage culverts can cause you to ding the trailer and bed of the truck if it's too abrupt. For the most part, if you can find a large and empty parking lot and practice turns and backing and doing it s-l-o-o-o-w-l-y your adaptation time will be a lot faster. The dealer took me for an orientation 'cruise' to a parking lot and worked with me for the best part of an hour when I purchased my first 5er.

If you have a long bed, not too many problems with rear window interference, but a short bed truck - you do need to be well aware that a 90* turn will probably not be possible (tho they are seldom encountered)

Just take your time - and welcome to the world of 5ers

[Cat320]

As IC2 noted, the 5th wheel will 'cut the corner' when turning...practice and swing wide.

[tooblue]

Make sure you have enough truck for the size and weight of you new unit.

You can't have too much truck.

Jerry

[SlyFox]

Not sure if you have a short box or not, but if so watch the back of the cab if you are cranking it hard. Thus the reason for the slider type hitches, to give you an extension to get the 5er further from the cab so you don't inadvertently open the rear sliding window in the truck (if you catch my drift). I believe it was already said but make sure the jaws or bar are fully closed around the king pin of the 5er hitch, and it's a good idea to always give it a tug test BEFORE fully retracting your landing gear. At least that way if it fails it won't drop down and crumple your truck box.