Choosing an adjustable 5th wheel hitch ensures smoother towing across varying terrains and trailer setups. The following picks offer versatile height adjustments, secure latching, and dependable performance for American tow vehicles and campers. Each option below is selected for compatibility, ease of use, and durability across different truck bed configurations.
The table below highlights the featured products with key attributes to help you compare quickly.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500 | B&W Trailer Hitches | |
| B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch | B&W Trailer Hitches | |
| Blue Ox BXR2100 5th Wheel Gooseneck Hitch | Blue Ox | |
| ANDERSEN HITCHES SAE Certified GEN 3 Ultimate Fifth Wheel | Andersen Hitches | |
| CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch | CURT |
B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch
This hitch is designed for the 2020–2026 Chevrolet/GM OEM puck system. It features a fully articulating head that pivots front-to-back and side-to-side, aiding alignment on uneven surfaces. The cam action latching handle allows straightforward operation for release, even on unlevel sites. Polyurethane bushings contribute to a quiet towing experience, reducing vibration and noise during travel. The unit supports heavy loads with stable, precise hitching and secure connection.
Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck Cushioned Trailer Hitch Adapter
This cushioned gooseneck adapter converts a 5th wheel setup to a gooseneck connection quickly, enabling flexible towing options. The 12″ to 16″ height adjustability allows compatibility with various trucks and trailers. The cushioned design helps absorb road shock, contributing to a smoother ride and reduced hitch noise. This adapter is ideal for owners who frequently switch between gooseneck and fifth-wheel configurations.
Blue Ox BXR2100 5th Wheel Gooseneck Hitch
This adapter converts a standard 2-5/16″ gooseneck ball into a 5th-wheel kingpin hitch, enabling convenient 360-degree kingpin nesting. It supports a high towing capacity, with a gross towing rating of up to 21,000 lbs and a 5,000 lb vertical load limit. The funnel-shaped hitch head helps guide the kingpin into place, reducing misalignment and false hookups for safer, more reliable towing.
ANDERSEN HITCHES GEN 3 Ultimate Fifth Wheel Connection
The Gen 3 3220 is designed to be lightweight yet strong, weighing about 37 lbs for easy handling. It supports up to 24,000 lbs GTWR, offering robust towing capacity for heavy trailers. The two height settings (approximately 17 9/16″ and 19 9/16″) accommodate a range of truck bed heights and trailer configurations. A patented remote latching system enables quick, tool-free connection and disconnection from the cab, enhancing convenience for frequent campers or on-the-go users.
C5G1216 12″-16″ Adjustable Cushioned 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter
The C5G1216 is a cushioned 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter with a 20,000 lb towing capacity and 4,000 lb tongue weight. Height can be adjusted from 12″ to 16″ using a sliding collar with set screws. Safety pins provide extra security during towing. Not recommended for trucks with beds shorter than six feet or cushioned king pin boxes. This adapter is a practical solution for converting established fifth-wheel setups to gooseneck configurations when needed.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Compatibility: Confirm your truck bed size, frame, and trailer kingpin or puck system to ensure the hitch matches your setup.
- Weight rating and capacity: Check gross towing weight rating (GTWR) and tongue weight tolerance to match your trailer’s specifications.
- Height adjustability: Look for adjustable height ranges that fit your typical loads and hitch ball-to-kingpin clearance.
- Head design and articulation: Fully articulating or dual-pivot heads reduce binding and help with alignment on uneven ground.
- Ease of use: Features such as remote latching, easy release mechanisms, and clear indicator cues can save time during hitching and unhitching.
- Vibration and noise reduction: Cushioned or bushings-based designs minimize movement and rattling for a smoother ride.
- Safety features: Consider locking pins, anti-rattle designs, and secure latch mechanisms to prevent accidental disconnection.
- Installation and maintenance: Some units are heavier or easier to install with modular components—assess your tool availability and service needs.
- Compatibility with accessories: If you plan to switch between gooseneck and fifth-wheel setups, ensure the adapter components support both configurations.
- Warranty and support: Opt for brands that provide solid warranties and readily available customer support for troubleshooting.
Performance Perspectives
Objective evaluation of adjustable fifth-wheel hitches considers ease of hookup, stability under load, and long-term reliability. Users seeking maximum payload often prioritize higher GTWR ratings and durable materials. Those prioritizing versatility may value quick-connect features and wide height ranges for compatibility with multiple trailers. Noise reduction and smoothness of ride are also important, especially for frequent longer trips. Safety features and ease of maintenance should supplement performance in decision making.
Brand and Model Highlights
B&W Companion series is known for robust articulation and quiet operation, making it popular for long-haul towing. Andersen Gen 3 emphasizes lightweight design with strong capacity and convenient remote latching. CURT offers dual-pivot heads and anti-rattle features for stable towing in varied conditions. Blue Ox focuses on gooseneck conversion with secure nesting, while the GELUOXI and Lamerto options provide adjustable cushioned adapters for flexible setups. Each option has specific strengths depending on your truck, trailer, and preferred towing style.