Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a puck system?

A puck system is a 5-hole towing system that is installed onto the frame of the truck by the truck manufacturer.

Why did you begin offering the Companion OEM?

Over the years, we've watched a few aftermarket products get picked up by the Big 3 as factory installed add-ons. These options are often offered by vehicle manufacturers to boost their margins. Back in 2010, Ford started rolling out trucks with towing prep packages with the goal of taking gooseneck and fifth-wheel hitches in that same direction. GM and Ram followed soon after with their own 'puck' style platforms.

Generally, the buyer will decide whether they are in favor of this or not. What we kept hearing, though, is that some would get a truck unaware that it had the factory prep package. Others say they felt boxed into getting it because just about every truck on the lot came with it. It’s frustrating when something’s called an “option” but doesn’t really feel like it.

Since the OEM fifth-wheel hitches come with a steep price tag, and plenty of folks asked for a Companion that would work with the factory systems, we made it happen. The Companion OEM has the same coupler that’s proven itself over the years, but the base is designed to lock securely into the puck platforms found in newer Ford, GM, and Ram trucks. Just like every B&W hitch, all Companion OEM models are built to the same high standards you’ve come to expect.

So why are you abandoning your single-point attachment and gooseneck option?

We still offer the Companion with single-point attachment and it still utilizes an underbed mounting system that can accommodate towing a gooseneck, as well. In fact, we highly recommend this as your best option, especially if you plan to tow a gooseneck. Our system (the Turnoverball) offers the ability to turn the ball over and stow it in the receiver. Ford's gooseneck option includes a bag to stow the ball in when it’s not being used, missing a feature many customer’s desire.

What color is the Companion? I can't tell from the pictures.

The Companion has a medium gray powder-coat finish.

Can I purchase the base separate from the Companion coupler?

Yes, since all of our hitches in the Companion line use the same coupler head, you may purchase the base that works best for you. Depending on your needs, we offer both stationary and slider versions for the Ram, GM and Ford factory prep packages, as well as the Flat Bed and single point attachment Companion that mount into the Turnoverball.

Can I use the Companion with my short bed truck?

The short answer is yes, many folks towing fifth-wheel trailers with shortbed trucks successfully use the Companion.

There are many factors to consider when addressing the issue of cab clearance. To answer the question for you specific truck and trailer, pay attention to the following:

1. Pin Box Location - Is the Kingpin even with the front of the trailer, or is it recessed behind the front of the trailer? Some 5th wheel manufacturer's have compensated for the prevalence of shortbed trucks by building extended kingpin boxes.

2. Type of trailer and shape. Narrower trailers allow a tighter turning radius. Trailers that are built with rounded corners accommodate more cab clearance than squared corners.

3. Finally, the type of maneuvering that will be required while towing. Do you anticipate lots of sharp turns while towing, or is it only highway driving with little or no backing?

Do I need to use a lube disc with the Companion?

You do not need a lube disc when pulling your RV. Using a lube disc is a matter of preference. While utilizing a lube disc is a much cleaner option, you can simply apply an automotive type chassis grease to the top plate of the hitch. If you would prefer a greaseless option, we highly recommend our Amercan made graphite lube disc. https://www.bwtrailerhitches.com/product/graphite-lube-plate

Why won't the jaws on my Companion open when I pull the handle to the open position?

All of B&W's 5th wheel hitches utilize a cam action release for the jaws. When the latch handle is secured in the closed position, the jaws will stay locked around the kingpin of your trailer for towing. When the latch handle is moved to the open position, the tension on the jaws is released, even though they may not visibly pop open. If your truck and trailer are on uneven ground, there may be a slight bind between the jaws and trailer kingpin. This is normal. With the cam mechanism open, there is a nothing holding the jaws together. Ensure that the handle pin is in place, keeping the handle in the locked open position, then simply pull forward. The jaws will open and you'll be unhitched from your trailer.

How do I find the towing rating of my truck?

You will definitely want to know what your truck’s rating is before undertaking any towing activity. While we would love to be able to help our customers with those figures, they vary not only based on Make, Model and Year, but also things like Engine Size, Type of Transmission and even Gear to Axle Ratios. Luckily, there are several places to learn about your truck’s tow rating.

1 - Check our "How Much Can I Tow" calculator. https://www.bwtrailerhitches.com/towing-help-gooseneck

2 – Check your owner’s manual. Most owner’s manuals will have something regarding a tow rating, even for passenger cars. What you may find is that some manufacturers will provide extensive information on important ratings, while others provide a bare minimum.

3 – If your owner’s manual doesn’t provide the information you need, or if what is in there proves to be confusing, contact your local truck dealer. They will usually have that information readily available, or will be able to find it quickly. Having your VIN number handy will help this process along.

4 – Check the manufacturer’s website for the make and model of your truck. If you’re looking at buying a new truck, most manufacturer’s websites will offer at least some figures. If you still can’t find the pertinent information on your own, usually there will be a combination of e-mail, telephone and live chat options where you can hopefully get a direct answer.

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Gooseneck Towing Systems

Gooseneck Couplers

Companion®

Companion® OEM

Patriot & Companion®

Ball Mounts

Weight Distribution

Receiver Hitches

Motorcycle Mounts

Cab Protector

Experience

Warranty & Registration

Installation

Have a factory-ready, four-puck truck?

Effortless

Our handle works, even in a bind

Quiet Ride

You might forget you're towing

Adjustable

Clearance for your cab and bed sides is built in

Slider Option

Short bed? No problem.

Additional Features

Lifetime Warranty

Made in the USA

SAE J-2638 Certified

Long-lasting Finish

Award-Winning

CHOOSE YOUR COMPANION™ OEM

Accessories

Accessories

Graphite Lube Plate

A great alternative to grease

Lifting Device

Removing your hitch just got easier

Companion OEM Cover

Shield your Companion OEM from the elements

Frequently Asked Questions

Instructional Videos

Documents

#TowingAdventure

Companion^®

Companion^® OEM

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