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 American made graphite lube disc. https://www.bwtrailerhitches.com/products/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 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.
2 – 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.
3 – 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.
