Question:
I own a 5th wheel toy hauler with a gvwr of 19,000 lbs. Im looking to start towing it with my current truck, it has an 8ft bed. In the future I may switch to a short bed truck. I really like the BandW companion slider. Does the 18,000lb rating have an overage ? Would it be safe to tow my trailer rated at 19,000 but weighing in around 18,000lbs ? Thank you.
asked by: Pat
Expert Reply:
The B&W Companion Slider Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter # BWRVK3400 that you referenced has a maximum rated towing capacity of 20,000-lbs and a maximum rated pin weght capacity of 5000-lbs. Since these are the manufacturer's maximums, there is no exceeding them.
We generally recommend using a towing rig that exceeds the actual requirements. For a trailer weighing in at 18K I suggest a hitch rated for 20K to provide a margin of safety. I suggest the B&W hitch # BWRVK3500-5W which is rated for 20K along with their custom install kit # BWGNRK1108-5W.
I have linked both the written instructions and an installation video for your reference. I also included a link to our main page for all 20K-rated custom-install-kit hitch options.
Custom Underbed Installation Kit for B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
B&W Companion Slider Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs