When selecting a fifth wheel hitch for a long-bed truck, the installation process and system compatibility are critical factors in ensuring both performance and safety. The source material provides a firsthand account of a B&W turnover ball and fifth wheel hitch installation, highlighting key considerations such as system ratings, manufacturer warranties, and the advantages of B&W and Andersen hitches over puck systems. This article synthesizes the detailed insights from the documentation to guide users through the decision-making and installation process for fifth wheel hitch systems.
Overview of Fifth Wheel Hitch Systems
Fifth wheel hitch systems are designed to provide secure and stable towing of heavy trailers by connecting to the truck bed. Among the available systems, the puck system is a common factory-installed option offered by major truck manufacturers such as Ford, GM, and Ram. However, the source material indicates that this system has notable limitations in terms of towing capacity and flexibility.
The puck system is "plug and play," meaning it is pre-installed with rails in the truck bed, allowing hitch installation with minimal modifications. However, this system is rated for a maximum of 24,000 to 26,000 pounds depending on the manufacturer. While this may suffice for many recreational vehicle (RV) owners, the source material suggests that this rating could be insufficient for those with higher towing needs or for future buyers who may have different requirements. Additionally, the puck system is produced by either Curt or Reese, and in the event of a failure, warranty claims may be denied if the trailer exceeds the specified weight limits.
In contrast, the B&W turnover ball system is highlighted as a more robust and versatile alternative. This system is installed by drilling a hole in the center of the truck bed and mounting rails underneath without removing the bed. Once installed, the turnover ball allows for the attachment of a B&W fifth wheel hitch or an Andersen hitch. This method is said to provide a stronger and more secure connection to the truck frame, which can handle higher weight capacities and offers a more reliable warranty from the manufacturer.
B&W Turnover Ball System
The B&W turnover ball system is a key component in the installation of a fifth wheel hitch that provides both strength and flexibility. According to the source material, this system is specifically designed to be compatible with a wide range of hitches, including the B&W fifth wheel companion hitch and the Andersen hitch. The turnover ball is installed in the center of the truck bed and is connected to the frame through mounted rails. This allows the hitch to be securely fastened to the truck's frame, providing greater stability and weight capacity compared to the puck system.
One of the main advantages of the B&W turnover ball system is its compatibility with various hitch models. Once the turnover ball is installed, users can choose to attach either a B&W fifth wheel hitch or an Andersen hitch. The B&W companion hitch is noted for its solid construction and heavy weight, making it ideal for users who do not plan to remove the hitch frequently. On the other hand, the Andersen hitch is described as being lighter and more easily removable, offering greater flexibility for users who want full access to the truck bed when the hitch is not in use.
The installation process for the B&W turnover ball system involves drilling a hole in the center of the truck bed and securing the rails underneath without removing the bed. This method allows for a more seamless integration with the truck's frame, ensuring a strong and stable connection. Once the turnover ball is in place, the hitch can be attached and secured, completing the installation process.
Andersen Hitch and Its Advantages
The Andersen hitch is another popular option for fifth wheel installations and is noted for its lightweight design and ease of use. According to the source material, the base of the Andersen hitch weighs less than 40 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the B&W companion hitch. This lower weight allows for easier installation and removal, which is particularly beneficial for users who want to access the truck bed without the hitch in place.
The Andersen hitch is designed to be compatible with the B&W turnover ball system, allowing users to take advantage of the versatility offered by the turnover ball. Once installed, the hitch can be removed quickly and easily, providing full access to the truck bed. This makes the Andersen hitch an ideal choice for users who frequently need to switch between towing and non-towing scenarios.
Another advantage of the Andersen hitch is its compact design, which helps to minimize the space it occupies in the truck bed. This is especially useful for users who want to maximize the available storage space in their truck. The hitch is also designed to be durable and reliable, with a construction that can withstand the rigors of heavy towing.
Despite its advantages, the Andersen hitch is not the only option available for fifth wheel installations. The source material also discusses the B&W companion hitch, which is described as being "solid meat." This refers to the heavy-duty construction of the B&W hitch, which is designed to provide maximum strength and stability during towing. While the B&W hitch is heavier and more difficult to remove than the Andersen hitch, it is ideal for users who prioritize durability and performance over convenience.
Puck System Limitations and Availability Issues
The puck system is a factory-installed option that is available for all major truck manufacturers, including Ford, GM, and Ram. This system is designed to be "plug and play," meaning that it is pre-installed with rails in the truck bed, allowing for easy installation of a fifth wheel hitch. However, the source material highlights several limitations and availability issues associated with the puck system.
One of the main drawbacks of the puck system is its limited towing capacity. The system is rated for a maximum of 24,000 to 26,000 pounds, depending on the manufacturer. While this may be sufficient for many RV owners, it may not be adequate for those with higher towing needs or for future buyers who may have different requirements. Additionally, the puck system is produced by either Curt or Reese, and in the event of a failure, warranty claims may be denied if the trailer exceeds the specified weight limits.
Another issue with the puck system is its availability. The source material indicates that the puck system is not always available due to supply chain constraints. In one instance, the user attempted to order a truck with the puck system, but the general manager was instructed by Ford corporate to delete the option from the order. The reason for this was that Reese and Curt, the manufacturers of the under-bed rails used in the puck system, did not have enough supply to meet the demand. As a result, the user had to seek an alternative solution for their fifth wheel hitch installation.
Installation Process at Esquire RV
The installation of the B&W turnover ball system was carried out by Esquire RV, a local RV dealer in Vernal, Utah. The process involved several steps, including drilling a hole in the center of the truck bed and mounting rails underneath the bed to secure the turnover ball to the frame. This method allows for a strong and stable connection between the hitch and the truck, ensuring that the system can handle higher weight capacities.
Once the turnover ball was installed, the next step was to attach the B&W fifth wheel companion hitch. This hitch is known for its heavy-duty construction and durability, making it an ideal choice for users who do not plan to remove the hitch frequently. The installation process was completed by securing the hitch to the turnover ball and ensuring that it was properly aligned with the truck frame.
In addition to the hitch installation, the truck bed was also prepared with Rhino lining spray to protect it from damage and wear. This coating helps to prevent scratches, dents, and other forms of damage that can occur during towing. A 7-pin "in bed" plug was also installed to provide power to the trailer and ensure that all electrical systems function properly.
The entire installation process was carried out with the assistance of Brant and Kiley, the co-owners of Esquire RV. They are described as knowledgeable and professional in the field of hitch installations and Rhino linings, and their expertise played a crucial role in ensuring that the installation was completed successfully. The user expressed confidence in their ability to handle the installation and was satisfied with the results.
Warranty and Customer Support Considerations
When selecting a fifth wheel hitch system, it is important to consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. The source material highlights that B&W is known for its exceptional customer service and commitment to addressing any issues that may arise. According to the user's conversations with Brant and others in the industry, B&W will warranty the system to the limits of the hitch attached to it. For example, if a 30,000-pound hitch is installed, the user is covered up to the 30,000-pound limit, which is well beyond the limits imposed by Curt and Reese on their puck systems.
This extended warranty coverage is a significant advantage for users who want to ensure that their investment is protected. In the event of a failure, users can have confidence that their warranty claims will be honored, provided that the system is used within the specified weight limits. This level of support is not always available with other manufacturers, making B&W a more reliable choice for those who prioritize long-term durability and performance.
In addition to the warranty, B&W is also noted for its proactive approach to customer service. The company is described as going "all out" to ensure that any end-user issues are addressed promptly and effectively. This commitment to customer satisfaction is a key factor in the popularity of B&W products and contributes to the overall reliability of the turnover ball system.
Comparison with Other Manufacturers: Curt, Pullrite, and Reese
While the source material primarily focuses on the B&W and Andersen hitches, it also touches on the products offered by other manufacturers such as Curt and Pullrite. These companies also produce fifth wheel hitches and are known for their quality and performance. However, the source material does not provide detailed information about their products or installation processes.
Curt and Pullrite are mentioned in the context of the puck system, which is produced by either Curt or Reese. The puck system is described as having limitations in terms of weight capacity and flexibility, which makes it less desirable for users with higher towing needs. The source material does not provide specific details about the hitches produced by Curt and Pullrite, but it does indicate that the puck system is not the preferred option for those seeking a more versatile and durable solution.
The source material also highlights the importance of considering the weight capacity and warranty coverage when selecting a fifth wheel hitch. While Curt and Pullrite may offer products that are suitable for certain applications, the B&W turnover ball system is presented as a more reliable and long-term solution for users who require greater strength and stability.
Conclusion
The installation of a fifth wheel hitch is a critical decision for truck owners who plan to tow heavy trailers. The source material provides a detailed account of the installation process for a B&W turnover ball system, highlighting the advantages of this system over the puck system. The B&W turnover ball system is described as being more versatile, durable, and compatible with a wider range of hitches, making it an ideal choice for users who require a reliable and long-term solution.
The installation process at Esquire RV involved drilling a hole in the truck bed and mounting rails underneath to secure the turnover ball to the frame. This method allows for a strong and stable connection, ensuring that the hitch can handle higher weight capacities. The user also opted for the B&W companion hitch, which is known for its heavy-duty construction and durability. In addition, the truck bed was prepared with Rhino lining spray to protect it from damage, and a 7-pin "in bed" plug was installed to provide power to the trailer.
When considering warranty and customer support, B&W is highlighted as a company that offers extended coverage and exceptional service. This level of support is a key factor in the reliability and long-term performance of the system. While other manufacturers such as Curt, Pullrite, and Reese also produce fifth wheel hitches, the source material suggests that the B&W turnover ball system is the preferred option for those seeking a more durable and versatile solution.
Ultimately, the decision to install a B&W turnover ball system is based on a combination of factors, including weight capacity, compatibility, warranty, and customer support. The detailed insights provided in the source material serve as a valuable guide for users who are looking to make an informed decision about their fifth wheel hitch installation.