The best king pin fifth wheel options provide solid connection, durability, and theft deterrence for different trailer setups. This guide highlights five reliable choices and explains who each is best for. Ideal buyers include fleet operators needing robust welded pins, DIY trailer owners seeking easy installations, and anyone prioritizing security against theft.
| Product | Why It Was Chosen |
|---|---|
| Buyers Products KP20050 Forged Trailer King Pin | Strong 2″ SAE king pin with hardening, weldable for durable chassis connections. |
| ELSOON WA15 5050 Forged Trailer King Pin | Compatibility with WA15 5050 pins for enhanced towing stability on 5th wheels. |
| WA15 5050 Fifth Wheel Kingpin – DETYI | Direct replacement option with 2″ collar and 3/8″ bolster plate, welded installation. |
| METOWARE 5th Wheel King Pin Lock | Security-focused lock with warning tag and high-strength iron construction. |
| RVMATE 5th Wheel Lock | Heavy duty steel king pin lock with anti-theft features and warning tag. |
The following sections profile each product, including who it’s best for, why it’s a solid pick, and a practical caveat. Use this as a quick reference to compare fitment, installation style, and security features.
Buyers Products KP20050 Forged Trailer King Pin
This 2″ SAE king pin emphasizes hardened alloy strength, maintaining hardness in the 302-363 BHN range for reliable, long-term use. It’s weldable, which makes it suitable for permanent chassis reinforcement in fixed trailer setups. Best for: owners who want a robust, weld-on pin for durable fifth-wheel connections and long-term maintenance. Better for: trailers that require high-strength welding to the frame rather than bolt-in solutions. Caution: ensure proper welding procedure to maintain pin alignment and keep within manufacturer tolerances.
ELSOON WA15 5050 Forged Steel King Pin
This king pin is designed for compatibility with WA15 5050 forged pins and 5th-wheel trailers, aiming to boost towing stability and load capacity. It uses high-quality forged steel for strength and longevity, making it suitable for heavy-duty, long-term use. Best for: trailers that use WA15 5050 components and require dependable, high-strength performance. Better for: regular, heavy towing where stability is a priority. Caution: verify fitment with your trailer’s existing WA15 system to ensure a proper match.
WA15 5050 Fifth Wheel Kingpin – DETYI
DETYI’s WA15 5050 kingpin claims wide model compatibility as a direct replacement, cross-compatible with several OEM part numbers. It features a welded installation design to deliver a permanent, high-strength bond to the trailer chassis, aiming for enhanced stability and safety. Best for: owners seeking a direct replacement that can integrate with multiple OEM pin models. Better for: installations where welded connections are preferred over bolted assemblies. Caution: verify exact compatibility with your trailer model before purchase to avoid mismatches.
KING PIN – WELD ON FOR 5TH WHEEL TRAILER
National Drivetrain’s weld-on kingpin is presented as a straightforward 2″ collar with a 3/8″ bolster plate. It is marketed as a weld-on option for a direct, permanent connection. Best for: skilled welders seeking a solid, permanent solution for fifth-wheel trailers. Better for: trailers that require a welded-on pin instead of bolt-in configurations. Caution: welding quality and alignment are critical to ensure safe articulation and load transfer.
METOWARE 5th Wheel King Pin Lock with Warning Tag
METOWARE offers a king pin lock with a bright warning tag and a warning chain, emphasizing visibility and deterrence. It is made from high-strength iron with corrosion-resistant coating and two keys for convenience. Best for: owners who want a clearly visible theft deterrent that’s easy to install and remove. Better for: light-to-mid-weight security needs where quick access and clear warnings are valued. Caution: ensure the lock diameter matches your trailer’s kingpin size for a snug fit.
Equipment Lock Heavy Duty 5th Wheel King Pin Lock
The Equipment Lock Company offers a heavy-duty king pin lock designed to cover the 2″ kingpin and provide a high-security barrier with a user-friendly no-mounting operation. It emphasizes maximum security via a full-coverage design and a high-security locking system. Best for: trailers requiring quick, portable theft deterrence without alterations to the vehicle. Better for: scenarios where non-permanent security is preferred. Caution: verify that the lock’s diameter and clearance do not interfere with hitching or release mechanisms on your model.
RVMATE 5th Wheel Lock with Warning Tag
RVMATE’s lock includes an anti-theft design with a warning tag, aiming to deter tampering and theft. It features durable steel construction with a visible deterrent and a 74mm internal diameter fit for common 50 mm pin sizes. Best for: users seeking a robust lock with a clear warning signal. Better for: road-ready security that doesn’t require permanent installation. Caution: confirm compatibility with your specific 5th wheel pin diameter before purchase.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a king pin fifth wheel include compatibility, installation method, and security needs.
- Compatibility and fit: Confirm collar diameter (commonly 2″), bolster plate thickness, and whether the pin is designed for welded or bolt-in installation.
- Installation method: Weld-on pins offer permanence and potentially stronger integration, while lockable or clamp-style pins improve security without altering the trailer.
- Material and durability: Look for forged steel or high-strength iron for longevity and resistance to wear in harsh environments.
- Security features: Locks, warning tags, and visible deterrents can reduce theft risk; ensure the lock fits the kingpin and does not hinder hitching when engaged.
- Maintenance and serviceability: Consider pins that are easy to inspect and replace when necessary, and verify availability of compatible parts.
- Compatibility with OEM models: Some pins are cross-compatible with OEM part numbers; always verify fitment with your trailer’s model before purchase.
FAQ
- What is the main purpose of a king pin on a fifth wheel?
– It provides a secure connection point between the tractor and trailer, enabling safe articulation and towing. - Should I weld a king pin or use a bolt-on version?
– Weld-on pins offer a permanent, high-strength bond suitable for welded trailer frames, while bolt-on options provide easier replacement or non-permanent security. - How do I know if a king pin fits my trailer?
– Check collar diameter, bolster plate thickness, and compatibility notes with your trailer’s make and model. - Do king pin locks prevent hitching theft?
– Locks deter theft by blocking access to the kingpin, especially when paired with visible warning tags. - Are forged steel pins more durable than standard pins?
– Forged steel generally provides stronger, more reliable performance under torsion and load stresses than standard cast options. - Can I mix and match pins from different brands?
– It’s possible if dimensions and compatibility align, but verify fit with your trailer’s specifications to avoid misalignment or unsafe connections.