The Curt E16 fifth wheel hitch is a robust and reliable towing solution designed for heavy-duty applications. This article provides an in-depth analysis of its installation process, maintenance requirements, and safety precautions based on the official documentation and user insights from the Curt E16 5th Wheel Hitch manual and community discussions. The E16 is frequently compared to the now-discontinued RBW Lil' Rocker hitch, sharing many similarities in design and functionality. This guide is intended for U.S. consumers, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking to understand how to install, operate, and maintain the Curt E16 with accuracy and safety.
Understanding the Curt E16 Fifth Wheel Hitch
The Curt E16 is a fifth wheel hitch designed to support heavy towing operations, with a maximum rating of 16,000 pounds gross trailer weight (GTW). Its design features a locking mechanism and rear tension bar, which work together to minimize slack and reduce the "chucking" or rattling that is commonly reported with other models such as the Reese Pro Series 15k. These design elements are also present in the RBW Lil' Rocker, a hitch that was previously popular among trailer users but is no longer in production. The Curt E16 is often regarded as a direct replacement for the Lil' Rocker, with the only notable difference being the appearance of the base legs and the slightly higher weight rating.
The hitch includes a mid-section that connects the hitch head to the mounting legs. The bearing assembly and locking system are critical to ensuring a secure and smooth connection between the trailer and the towing vehicle. The installation and maintenance of these components are outlined in detail in the manufacturer's instructions, with particular emphasis on torque specifications and lubrication schedules.
Installation Process and Key Steps
The installation of the Curt E16 fifth wheel hitch requires careful attention to detail, particularly in aligning the mounting rails and ensuring that all bolts and fasteners are tightened to the correct specifications. The following steps outline the installation process as described in the official manual:
Mounting Rail Preparation: If the E16 is being installed on a vehicle with existing bed mounting rails, it may be necessary to realign or adjust the rails to accommodate the hitch. This is especially important if the foot tabs of the hitch do not align with the rectangular slots of the mounting rails. In such cases, the mounting rail bolts should be loosened and the rails realigned as needed. It is recommended to replace old lock washers with new ones for optimal performance.
Loose Assembly of Legs and Mid-Section: The legs of the E16 should be loosely assembled with the mid-section before placing the unit on the mounting rails. Once aligned, the foot tabs should be pinned using the provided pins and clips. The pilot hex bolts should then be tightened to 100 foot-pounds of torque.
Torque Specifications: The torque requirements for the E16 installation are clearly defined in the manual. The pilot hex bolts should be tightened to 100 foot-pounds, while the mounting rail bolts should be torqued to 75 foot-pounds. These specifications are critical for ensuring the structural integrity of the hitch and preventing loosening during use.
Coupling and Locking: After the hitch is installed, the coupling and locking process should be performed on a firm and level surface. Multiple wheel chocks should be used to secure the trailer tires both in front of and behind. It is important not to use substitutes such as stones or wood blocks for this purpose. The hitch should be engaged by aligning the kingpin with the hitch head and following the coupling instructions to ensure a secure connection.
Removal and Reinstallation: In the event that the hitch needs to be removed, there are two primary options outlined in the manual. The first involves removing the head, bearing shaft, and mid-section as a single unit. The second method involves separating the head and legs from the mid-section before removal. Reinstallation should be done in the reverse order of removal, ensuring that all components are properly aligned and torqued to the specified values.
Bearing Assembly Installation: When reinstalling the hitch head into the mid-section, the bearing shaft must be inserted into the lower bearing assembly with the machined and removable retainers in place. The long end of the bearing shaft should be positioned into the lower bearing assembly, and the O-ring retainer should be placed lastly in its groove. Proper alignment of these components is essential for smooth operation and long-term durability.
Safety Precautions and Operational Guidelines
Safety is a critical aspect of using the Curt E16 fifth wheel hitch, and the manufacturer has provided a detailed set of warnings and precautions in the installation and user manuals. These guidelines are designed to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to both the towing vehicle and the trailer.
Towing Capacity Limitations: Users are explicitly warned not to exceed the towing capacity of their vehicle. The E16 is rated for up to 16,000 pounds, but this must not exceed the manufacturer's recommended towing capacity for the specific vehicle. Overloading can lead to mechanical failure, reduced handling, and increased risk of accidents.
Wheel Chocking and Surface Preparation: Before coupling the trailer to the hitch, multiple wheel chocks should be placed in front of and behind the trailer tires. These chocks must be placed on a firm and level surface to ensure the trailer remains stationary during the coupling process. Users are advised not to use alternative materials such as stones or wood blocks as substitutes for wheel chocks.
Vehicle Positioning and Braking: The towing vehicle must be stationary with the automatic transmission in park and the emergency brake engaged. If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, it should be placed in neutral with the emergency brake applied and the engine off. These precautions are necessary to prevent accidental movement during the coupling process.
Personal Safety During Coupling: Users are advised to avoid placing hands, body parts, or clothing between the truck and trailer or between the truck bed and trailer. Extreme care should be taken to prevent injury to the operator and bystanders. The manual emphasizes that failure to follow these precautions can result in serious injury or death.
Warning Labels and Instruction Review: All users must read and understand the installation and operation instructions before using the hitch. The manual must be provided in full to the end user, and the importance of observing all warnings—both in the manual and on the hitch itself—should be clearly communicated. This includes warning labels on the mid-section of the hitch.
Dangers of Exceeding Ratings: The manual contains a strong warning against exceeding the rated towing capacity of the hitch. Doing so can lead to mechanical failure, loss of control, and potential injury to the operator and others.
Maintenance and Lubrication Requirements
The Curt E16 requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The manufacturer has outlined a maintenance schedule that includes lubrication and torque checks at specific intervals.
Lubrication Schedule: Users are instructed to apply a light film of lubricant to the lower pilot and bearing assembly before each use. Black graphite grease is recommended for the jaw pins and lower bearing assembly jaw, while high-pressure wheel bearing grease is preferred for the skid plate. In extremely cold conditions, a lighter grease such as white lithium can be used as a substitute for better performance.
Grease Fittings: The E16 is equipped with grease fittings located on each jaw pin and the lower bearing assembly. These fittings allow for direct application of grease, ensuring that the moving parts remain well-lubricated and operate smoothly.
Torque Re-Checks: After the initial installation, the pilot bolts should be re-torqued after the first 500 miles of use and again every 1,000 miles thereafter. This is also recommended prior to each individual use to ensure that the bolts remain tight and secure.
Inspection and Cleaning: Users should regularly inspect the hitch for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Any debris or dirt should be cleaned away to prevent interference with the locking mechanism or bearing assembly. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Warranty and Support
Curt provides a limited warranty for the E16 fifth wheel hitch, which covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. To return a damaged product, the purchaser must follow a specific procedure:
Proof of Purchase: The purchaser must provide proof of purchase to CURT, either by mailing it to their headquarters or by providing it during the return process.
RGA Number Request: Before returning a product, the purchaser must contact Curt at 877-CURTMFG (877.287.8634) to obtain a Returned Goods Authorization (RGA) number. This number is required for the product to be accepted for inspection.
Return Instructions: The damaged product, along with the RGA number and proof of purchase, must be sent to CURT at 6208 Industrial Drive, Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701. The purchaser is responsible for all shipping and handling costs.
Evaluation and Repair: Upon receipt, CURT will determine whether the product is covered under the limited warranty. If it is, the product will be repaired or replaced. If the product is not covered, the purchaser will be notified and any repair or replacement will be at their expense.
Conclusion
The Curt E16 fifth wheel hitch is a durable and high-performance towing solution designed for heavy-duty use. Its installation process requires careful attention to torque specifications, alignment, and safety precautions. Regular maintenance, including lubrication and periodic torque checks, is essential for ensuring smooth operation and long-term reliability. The manufacturer has also provided detailed safety guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries during the coupling and towing process.
For users who previously relied on the RBW Lil' Rocker hitch, the E16 offers a nearly identical design with a slightly higher weight rating. The similarities in design and functionality make the E16 an ideal replacement for those seeking a durable and well-engineered fifth wheel hitch.