If your hitch is having a problem or you don’t have the opportunity to hitch your fifth-wheel trailer then don’t be tense. Here we are going to talk about some of the ways that how you can move your trailer properly to your desired place. Try to read the article properly to gain important information.
Can you move a fifth wheel trailer without a hitch?
Yes, you can move a fifth-wheel trailer without a hitch, but to be honest, it’s a bit difficult. Most trailers are not self-supporting while in motion and must be towed by a tow vehicle. For safety, a vehicle with an appropriate fifth wheel hitch is suggested; however, a bumper-pull style trailer can sometimes be pulled a short distance without a hitch.
Before proceeding, make sure that towing the trailer on public roads is legal.
Things to remember before Moving A Fifth Wheel Trailer
Before beginning the procedure, you must follow some of these guidelines. I should point out that fifth-wheel trailers are not designed to be moved manually, but there are some methods.
Note: Don’t go above the weight restriction, which is extremely vital to keep to.
Experiment with the effects of your trailer being at a higher altitude. Reroute your exhaust pipe if possible, and don’t put the trailer in overdrive. Finally, remember your tire condition and lug bolts.
5 Steps to Move A Fifth-Wheel Trailer Without A Hitch
Follow these instructions properly and don’t miss any necessary steps to move the fifth wheel hitch. Here are the necessary steps that need to be followed:
1. Check the manufacturer’s instruction
The most important thing at the very beginning is that you have to follow the proper instructions of the vehicle manufacturer, whether the vehicle is capable of pulling the weight and has permission to move like this or not for both the trailer and trailer contents.
If you fail to follow the manufacturer’s directions, your car’s fundamental components will likely malfunction, necessitating costly replacements. The manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is designed to be both convenient and cost-effective.
2. Make sure that nuts are not loose
Ensure that nuts and lock washers are not loose, which is very important. Especially the locking washer needs to be fitted properly as in the notion that it will “lock” the nut/bolt to the joint and prevent loosening; they are still utilized in numerous situations.
They do not prevent loosening and, in many situations, can be proven to actively speed up the rate of loosening, according to a body of research based on both experience and experimental results.
3. Maintain the tug ball size
A trailer tug test is very important for fifth wheels with classic kingpin hitches. A tug test is important because it determines whether you successfully hitched your fifth wheel and tow vehicle. If the trailer unhitches while in motion, this helps to avoid destroying property or harming someone. So, try to bring the proper size tug ball.
4. Connect it properly
To properly secure the coupler to the hitch-ball, lower it onto it and follow the instructions. Allowing yourself to get distracted is not a good idea. Before proceeding to the following step, double-check that the coupler is securely attached to the hitch ball.
Push down on the latch and crank the hand wheel counter-clockwise to fully loosen it. Make sure the ball clamp is underneath the coupler. Push down on the latch while moving the handwheel clockwise to tighten the coupler, which should completely cover and enclose the hitch.
Attach to the frame of the tug car beneath the bumper to guarantee that they have ample slack, allowing for a much safer turning.
Also read: How to Tighten the Hitch Ball?
5. Connect the wires
Trailer connector wiring is required to connect the taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and other electrical components on any car towing a trailer. If your car lacks a functioning trailer wiring harness, various options are available to ensure a perfect match for your vehicle. You can do this by using a custom wiring scheme.
When it comes to installing trailer light wiring on your car, custom wiring is the best option. A custom wire harness, sometimes known as a ‘T-connection,’ is a vehicle-specific harness that plugs in and delivers a standard connector output, such as a 4-way flat, without spicing. Most of the custom wiring comes with all of the necessary components for a complete installation on the car, including vehicle-specific plugs and, if necessary, an electrical converter.
By following these guidelines properly, you can move your fifth-wheel trailer. If you are a first-timer it’s better to take the help of a partner with experience in this work.
Also read:
- How to put a 5th wheel hitch on a flatbed truck?
- Towing a 5th wheel with an SUV
- How To Install A Fifth Wheel Hitch?
Other ways to move the Fifth Wheel Trailer Without A Hitch
So here are some other ways with the help you can move your fifth-wheel trailer to a certain place where you want,
1. Take Dealers Transportation Service
If you’re looking for a new fifth-wheel trailer and locate the right one but it’s several hours away, you’ll be relieved to learn that many shops provide home delivery. Of course, for a cost. For those who wish to browse dealer inventory from their home, online shopping for these trailers is a good option. Because many trailer buyers may not have a vehicle, such as a truck, to move a non-motorized trailer at first, most dealers have begun to offer trailer delivery services. The cost of transporting a travel trailer can range from $1.00 to $5.00 per mile. The size and condition of your trailer and the distance it must go are factors that can affect how much you pay.
This easy service would also apply if a customer encountered an issue that necessitated delivery from a different location. There may be a charge for this home delivery. A dealer transportation service is an ideal option to move your fifth wheel from the lot to the customer if you don’t have access to a nearby trailer dealership or don’t have a truck to take your vehicle home after purchase.
2. Obtain a Truck
Borrowing a truck is another option for moving your trailer without a hitch. Trailer owners may occasionally know a friend or relative with a truck they might borrow to move their trailer. You must maintain in touch with these pals regardless of the type of trouble that emerges when your hitch fails. Talking to other trailer owners is another possibility. Someone may be willing to lend you a truck because we are usually a supportive and helpful group.
You must consider prospective insurance and liability issues if they borrow a truck to transport their recreational vehicle.
As a result, it’s critical to double-check with your insurance carrier as well as the lenders to ensure that any accidents or losses are appropriately covered. Verifying that the truck is capable of and prepared for moving the vehicle is maybe even more critical when borrowing a truck to move a trailer.
The tow rating specifies the maximum weight the truck can tow without jeopardizing the suspension, powertrain, or transmission. The truck’s towing capacity must exceed the trailer’s weight.
3. Hire a Truck
It may be preferable to rent a truck rather than borrow one to move your trailer. Attaching a hitch or towing a vehicle of any type with a rental vehicle is usually prohibited by most automobile rental agencies. Customers can now rent “tow-capable” trucks from a rising number of rental businesses for personal usage.
Previously, the majority of truck rental companies only catered to enterprises. Because of the growing demand for towing rental services, several companies, such as Enterprise Truck Rental, have opted to offer the same truck rental choices for personal use.
This business concept is gaining popularity as more trailer owners realize they need to move their trailers but don’t have access to a tow truck. During peak season, rates will likely be higher, but a 10′-17′ truck should cost between $19.99 and $29.99 per day, and a 20′-26′ truck should cost between $29.99 and $39.99 per day.
So, check out your local Home Depot or Lowes if you only need a vehicle for a short trip. They normally feature tow-capable work trucks for rent that are intended to be utilized for a short trip. UHaul dealerships are ubiquitous, and almost all of their vehicles are tow-capable, so there’s no need for a Home Depot.
4. Valet Service for Trailers
Occasionally, a trailer without a hitch may need to be moved a small distance. A Trailer Valet is a great alternative for you if a vehicle is not available in these situations. A Trailer Valet is a customized “tongue” jack dolly device that enables easy pivoting and mobility of a trailer. A trailer valet price is around $400-$900.
This could be useful for trailer owners who don’t have access to a truck and need to move their vehicle up an incline, around a driveway, or into a parking spot.
Conclusion
So, we hope that your problems are cleared and now you can solve them on your own. We tried to cover up all the necessary information. So, try to maintain the guideline properly whenever you run the operation and be careful. And yes, other ways to move a trailer are also discussed, which is beneficial to keep in mind for every trailer owner. Try to keep those necessary contacts always with you. Have a safe journey!
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