If you operate a vehicle that requires a 5th wheel, chances are good that you have at least some working knowledge of how 5th wheel accessories can protect your truck, enhance driving comfort, and ensure that your vehicle stays scratch-free. However, for those drivers just beginning to learn about the functions and features of a 5th wheel, here is an overview of some of the most popular 5th wheel optional and mandatory accessories that you will need to know about in order to operate the vehicle safely and effectively:

Bedsaver

A bedsaver helps to prevent you from dropping the wheel. The accessory attaches to the 5th wheel hitch and prevents the trailer from dropping onto the truck in the event that the 5th wheel becomes detached (or uncoupled) from the hitch. In essence, the bedsaver catches the 5th wheel hitch and holds it until you can fix the issue. The bedsaver does not get in the way of loading or unloading and can be reapplied by backing up until the hitch pin is placed back into the hitch.

Wiring Components

No matter which type of 5th wheel hitch you get, you will need to have wiring components, such as plug adapters, in order to properly operate the fifth wheel safely and within the law. These adapters should fit onto any 5th wheel.

5th Wheel Hitch

There are a variety of different types of 5th wheel hitches. However, each 5th wheel hitch is uniquely designed to carry several thousand pounds in the trailer weight and several more thousand pounds in hitch or torque weight. The hitch should contain specialized mechanisms that make it easy to load and unload the hitch from the trailer.

Extended King Pin

An Extended king pin will make it possible to add inches to the clearance between the truck and the trailer, which can make a ride much safer and easier. The king pin can adjust to the amount of pounds that are being hauled.

Before you purchase accessories for your fifth wheel, make sure you understand what kind of load you will be carrying, including the approximate weight of the load, when possible. Having the right accessories can make your travel safer and can make your job more efficient than ever before. Drive safely!