Fifth-wheel hitch, Gooseneck hitch, Trailer hitch classification – Ram Trucks 2014 Chassis Cab Commercial - Diesel Supplement User Manual

Page 260

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steering and brake control thereby enhancing towing

safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway control

also dampens sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and

contributes positively to tow vehicle and trailer stability.

Trailer sway control and a weight distributing (load

equalizing) hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue

Weights (TW) and may be required depending on vehicle

and trailer configuration/loading to comply with Gross

Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.

WARNING!

An improperly adjusted Weight Distributing Hitch

system may reduce handling, stability, braking
performance, and could result in a collision.

Weight Distributing Systems may not be compat-

ible with Surge Brake Couplers. Consult with your
hitch and trailer manufacturer or a reputable Rec-
reational Vehicle dealer for additional information.

Fifth-Wheel Hitch
The fifth-wheel hitch is a special high platform with a

coupling that mounts over the rear axle of the tow vehicle

in the truck bed. It connects a vehicle and fifth-wheel

trailer with a coupling king pin.
Gooseneck Hitch
The gooseneck hitch employs a pivoted coupling arm

which attaches to a ball mounted in the bed of a pickup

truck. The coupling arm connects to the hitch mounted

over the rear axle in the truck bed.

Trailer Hitch Classification

The following chart provides the industry standard for

the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can

tow and should be used to assist you in selecting the

correct trailer hitch for your intended towing condition.

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