Knowing how to move a fifth wheel trailer without a hitch is a relevant knowledge to have.
After all, if you could know how exactly to move your trailer even for just a short distance – and without any truck involved – this will be an excellent thing to do.
You can go from one place to another or simply part your trailer at a different location as you please.
So how do you exactly go about this route? We have the answers for you so keep reading to learn how moving a fifth wheel trailer without a hitch is easy-peasy!
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Moving A Fifth Wheel Trailer Without A Hitch – Is It Possible?
There are a number of fifth wheel trailers that offer you the comfort of having a mobile accommodation combined with a vehicle.
With these self-propelled trailers, you don’t really need a hitch to move. Well, unless it breaks down and needs a professional’s expertise for repair.
Generally, fifth wheel trailers let you “trail” it without the use of a hitch. If we’re only talking about short distances such as from your yard to your neighbor’s, that may be a possibility. But if you want to go farther than that, a better and smarter technique is required.
If you want to tow your fifth wheel, you definitely need a motor vehicle to be able to tow it well. This way, you can move it from your desired location easily.
A hitch takes the stress out in moving your trailer. But if you are stuck without a hitch on your trailer, what is it that’s left to do?
The following steps should make it happen for you.
1. Check the manufacturer’s specs.
Before you do anything drastic, the very first thing to do is to consult your manufacturer’s recommendations.
What are the specs of your vehicle? You need to be certain that the specs indicated will allow you to pull both the weight of your fifth wheel and everything inside of it.
2. Ensure the stability of all attachments.
Next up, you need to check the necessary setup to prevent the fifth wheel from getting loose as you two it.
With this in mind, you should adjust the nut accordingly and use a locking washer. These will keep the trailer secure and prevent untoward situations such as loosening while towing.
Additionally, the tug ball should be the right size. The bumper should come with a hole, which you can use as a hitch. Then, get the optimum size of the tug ball to use.
3. Make the right connections.
At this point, you are now ready to connect the mount with the required trail ball.
Hook up the safety chains or simply attach to the tow. There needs to be some ample slack that will help you to turn the vehicle as safely as possible.
4. Plug the electrical wiring securely into the vehicle’s receptacle.
When you have made all the connections secure and stable, you need to plug in the fifth wheel. Connect the wire right into the receptacle. If the connections are not compatible, your trailer will not function correctly.
Thus, operating lights when on the road is unlikely to happen. But you can always purchase a converter when needed, which should be adaptable to the various prong configurations you have.
Read More: How To Clean Underside Of Camper Awning in Quick and Simple Ways
Expert Tips On How To Move A Fifth Wheel Trailer Without A Hitch
Next thing we would like to discuss is how to actually move your trailer without a hitch.
Here are some brilliant ideas and recommendations for you.
Borrow A Friend’s Truck
If you don’t have a truck to move your fifth wheel, then you can easily borrow one.
Perhaps you have a relative or a family member with a truck that they can lend to you. If this is not the case, other RVers may know someone who can lend a truck to you easily.
But at the same time, you need to keep in mind that there are liability concerns to consider amidst this decision. This is why you need to communicate with your insurance company, as well as the lender, to have the peace of mind that any damages or accidents are included in the coverage.
Moreover, the truck you rent must have the capacity to transport your fifth wheel. Check the tow rating that determines the truck’s maximum weight capacity. This way, there will be no serious risks and dangers to the transmission, motor and suspension of the vehicle.
In other words, the truck’s tow rating must be higher than your trailer’s overall weight.
Otherwise, the truck may be subject to damage while on the road. It is also unsafe to let it even travel on an open road since other vehicles are at risk of being in grave danger.
There is a high likelihood for the truck to lose control when there is a sway. As the sway happens caused by side winds or larger vehicles passing by, this can result in a massive accident.
Consult A Truck Rental Company
This option may be more expensive but it is a much smarter choice than the first one.
Rental companies may offer trucks that are tow-capable, which customers can use for their personal needs.
You may opt for a 1 ton or 3/4 ton pickup truck, which comes with a hitch. Thus, you can tow your fifth wheel without any problem.
But if you are only thinking about moving your camper for a short distance, Lowes, Home Depot, or similar businesses may have solutions for you.
Seek The Assistance Of A Shipping Marketplace
Another possibility on how to move a fifth wheel trailer without a hitch is by using one of those shipping marketplaces.
These can be easily found online, where you can organize a trailer transport service. Some can even provide international moves, as well as in-country.
Be sure that you provide all the pertinent details about your trailer. Then, you can request for a quote and decide if it is something you are willing to go through or not.
The cost typically depends on the distance and the vehicle size. Some may cost a dollar or more per travel while others can be very expensive.
The most important thing is that you can decide based on the delivery rates provided. It is also best to verify the transport company’s legal permit, such as up-to-date license numbers and paperwork with the Department of Transportation and Federal the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Last Resort – Trailer Valets
This is only applicable to non-motorized fifth wheels that need only a short distance move. A trailer valet comes with a tongue jack that offers the maneuverability and flexibility to move your trailer.
So, if you only want to move your fifth wheel into your desired parking space, around the driveway, or simply up towards an incline, a trailer valet should work just fine.
Plus, these come with a compact size. There are often jacks built in, and you may find one with an excellent towing capacity. So, it may be worth looking into a trailer valet as an option to move your fifth wheel either into a tight area or a short distance.
The dolly systems can cost a bit more but it can easily do the job when it is just a few meters of move required.
Read More: Should Trailer Be Level When Towing? Surprising Answer You Never Knew!
Conclusion
Fortunately, knowing how to move a fifth wheel trailer without a hitch is not a tough ordeal.
There are always options available for you such as the ones we have just presented in this post. So, you can simply take your pick on what suits you best. The most important thing is that you are aware of your vehicle’s specs, as well as the truck you wish to borrow or rent.
Also, budget is a key concern, which needs to be taken into account when determining the best solution for you.
Assess your options, think about your budget, and make the right decision that works best for your needs and safety.
