The Husky 16K S 5th Wheel Hitch, specifically models 31313 (hitch head & cross member) and 31314 (2 uprights), is a towing solution designed for heavy-duty applications. Documentation emphasizes the importance of proper installation, operation, and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent injury or death. The hitch is not compatible with all pin box types and requires careful consideration of vehicle towing capacity. This article details the information available regarding this hitch, based solely on provided documentation.
Product Identification and Components
The Husky 16K S 5th Wheel Hitch is identified by part numbers 31313 and 31314. Part number 31313 encompasses the hitch head and cross member, while 31314 refers to the two uprights. The documentation stresses the importance of providing these instructions to the end user and demonstrating proper usage. It is also crucial that the end user demonstrates understanding of the product’s operation.
Installation and Setup
The documentation indicates an estimated installation time of 90-120 minutes. Base rails are not included with the hitch and must be purchased separately. The documentation does not provide detailed step-by-step installation instructions, but directs users to seek assistance from a dealer or installer if they do not understand the proper installation procedure.
Operational Warnings and Safety Precautions
Several warnings are prominently featured in the provided documentation. A primary warning concerns the method of engaging the hitch. Users are instructed to drive the king pin into the hitch throat and not to drop the king pin from above. Dropping the king pin can lead to incorrect hook-ups and potential damage.
Another critical warning pertains to compatibility with rotating pin boxes. The 16K S 5th Wheel Hitch is not to be used with rotating pin boxes or pin boxes that require a “wedge,” such as the REESE Sidewinder or REESE Revolution Airborne Sidewinder. Use of these products is stated to potentially damage the hitch and will void the warranty.
The documentation also emphasizes the importance of not exceeding recommended towing limits, directing users to consult their vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific capacity information. Failure to adhere to these limits can result in injury or death. All products are limited to the vehicle’s tow rating.
Warranty Information and Technical Support
The documentation directs users to www.huskytow.com for warranty information, technical support, and product updates. The documentation is dated August 5, 2021, Revision 8, and is copyrighted by Keystone Automotive Operations Inc.
Important Notices
The documentation includes a notice stating that decals should not be removed from the product. These decals likely contain important safety information or operational instructions. The documentation also highlights the importance of understanding how the “important Safety Feature” operates, though the specific feature is not detailed within the provided materials.
Compatibility Considerations
The documentation specifically addresses incompatibility with certain pin box designs. The hitch is not designed for use with rotating pin boxes or those utilizing a wedge-style mechanism, such as those manufactured by REESE. Utilizing incompatible pin boxes may result in damage to the hitch and will invalidate the warranty.
Dealer/Installer and End User Responsibilities
The documentation outlines specific responsibilities for both the dealer/installer and the end user. The dealer/installer is responsible for demonstrating the proper use of the product to the end user. The end user is then responsible for demonstrating that they understand the proper use of the product. This two-step process is intended to ensure safe and effective operation of the hitch.
Product Limitations
The provided documentation indicates that the hitch is limited by the vehicle’s towing capacity, as specified in the vehicle owner’s manual. It is crucial to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the maximum allowable towing weight before using the hitch. Exceeding this limit can compromise safety and potentially damage the vehicle or hitch.
Additional Information
The documentation references Operating Instructions, which provide further details on the hitch’s operation. Users are encouraged to read these instructions thoroughly to fully understand the hitch’s functionality and safety features. The documentation also notes that all rights are reserved by Keystone Automotive Operations Inc. as of 2021.
Conclusion
The Husky 16K S 5th Wheel Hitch (models 31313 and 31314) is a heavy-duty towing solution requiring careful installation and operation. Key considerations include compatibility with pin box designs, adherence to vehicle towing capacity limits, and a thorough understanding of the hitch’s safety features. Users are strongly advised to consult the full documentation, including Operating Instructions, and to seek assistance from a qualified dealer or installer if needed. Proper usage, as demonstrated and understood by both the installer and end user, is paramount to safe and effective towing.
Sources
The provided source material is insufficient to produce a 2000-word article. Below is a factual summary based on available data.