Hitches

RECEIVER HITCHES

  • A receiver hitch is a robust metal device that attaches to a vehicle’s frame to facilitate the towing of trailers and various attachments. Typically bolted to the underside of a vehicle’s rear, it features a tubular design that accepts a ball mount or other hitch accessories. As the most common type of hitch, receiver hitches are designed to suit a wide range of vehicles and applications, including towing trailers, mounting bike racks, cargo carriers, kayak racks, and more.
  • There are many different ratings a hitch can be. The most common is a Class 3 hitch but there is Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, and even a Clas 5 available depending on the vehicle application. They are all reliable and versatile and engineered for a custom fit and capable of towing a variety of trailer types. They are available for numerous types of vehicles, including trucks, jeeps, SUVs, and others, making it a popular choice for those requiring substantial towing capacity.

GOOSENECK HITCHES

  • A gooseneck hitch is a specialized towing solution that connects a pickup truck to a to a gooseneck trailer. Engineered for maximum towing capacity and stability, the system features a ball mounted in the truck bed over which the trailer tongue is lowered and securely attached. The primary hitch assembly is installed to the frame, ensuring a robust and reliable connection.
  • Widely used for hauling livestock and horse trailers, flatbeds, vehicle trailers, and even RVs, the gooseneck hitch is the ideal choice for transporting exceptionally heavy loads. Constructed from high-strength steel, these hitches are designed to fit a broad range of truck models, including both short and long bed configurations, and are compatible with most gooseneck trailers.
  • Enhance your towing setup with OEM puck system products, which are specifically engineered for pickups equipped with truck bed puck systems. B&W offers complete ball kits featuring chain anchors, a rubber hole cover, and a convenient storage case, along with pick system hitches and additional accessories.

FIFTH WHEEL HITCHES

  •  A fifth-wheel hitch is a specialized mechanism for attaching a trailer to a truck, typically mounted in the truck bed over the rear axle. This configuration requires a full-size or heavy-duty pickup truck to ensure optimal performance and safety.
  • The hitch is designed in a horseshoe shape and employs a kingpin mechanism for secure attachment. Its locking jaws engage the kingpin, while pivoting headplate facilitates smooth trailer movement during turns and other maneuvers.

KEY BENEFITS

  • EVEN WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION: The design distributes the trailer’s weight more evenly, reducing strain on both the truck and trailer.
  • ENHANCED LOAD CAPACITY: It allows for towing heavier loads compared to traditional hitches, improving overall stability and turning performance.

VARIETIES OF FIFTH-WHEEL HITCHES

  • SINGLE-POINT FIFTH-WHEEL: This design works with the B&W gooseneck. The ball in the bed would be removed and the B&W Companion uses the same underbed system for a convenient single-point attachment. When the towing is complete, the unit can be removed to restore the truck bed for other uses.
  • OEM PUCK MOUNTING SYSTEM: Some trucks come equipped with a factory-installed system featuring pucks arranged at different intervals. A compatible fifth-wheel base is dropped into these pucks, and a handle is turned to lock the base securely in place.
  • RAIL SYSTEM FIFTH_WHEEL: This method involves permanently bolting rails into the truck bed, attaching directly to the frame. The fifth-wheel head unit then locks into these rails. Although permanent rails may not suit every truck owner, they remain a preferred option for those seeking a robust and secure attachment.

Each system has its own advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the truck owner.

FLAT TOWING

  • Flat towing- also known as “dinghy towing” or “four-down" towing is a method of towing your vehicle with all four wheels remaining on the ground behind your RV. A tow bar securely connects the vehicle to the RV, allowing it to follow your route without the need for additional equipment such as a tow dolly or trailer.
  • Blue Ox is internationally recognized for its high-quality towing products, which include tow bars, base plates, sway control devices, and weight distribution hitches, along with exceptional customer service. Their comprehensive range of products and accessories is designed to meet both recreational and commercial towing needs.
  • Many RV enthusiasts prefer flat towing because it offers significant advantages. Once at your destination, having a separate vehicle provides the flexibility and freedom to explore local areas without the need to set up a trailer. Additionally, tow bars are quick and easy to connect and disconnect, and the compact equipment requires minimal storage space.
  • It is important to consider safety when flat towing. Most states mandate that specific safety measures be in place such as ensuring the towing vehicle’s taillights are visible. Furthermore, backing up while flat towing can potentially damage the tow bar, so caution is advised. While many vehicles can be flat towed, cars with all-wheel drive generally cannot. In some cases, if a four-wheel-drive vehicle allows the all-wheel drive setting to be disabled, flat towing may be feasible.
  • Overall, flat towing offers a convenient and efficient method for RV travelers who wish to have the mobility of a separate vehicle without the bulk and complexity of alternative towing systems.