Choosing the right fifth wheel hitch for a flatbed setup requires understanding both vehicle compatibility and towing needs. This guide highlights top options designed to convert flatbed configurations into secure, comfortable towing systems. Each pick emphasizes articulation, easy release, and reliable performance on varied terrain. Read on to compare five strong choices and find angles to match your truck’s bed, payload, and preferred driving style.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| B&W Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3050 | B&W Trailer Hitches | Flatbed conversion with fully articulating head |
| B&W Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3715 (Chevrolet/Gm OEM puck) | B&W Trailer Hitches | OEM puck compatibility for GM platforms |
| B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500 | B&W Trailer Hitches | Quiet towing with polyurethane bushings |
| Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel | Reese | High capacity with enhanced ground hookup |
| CURT 16046 A25 5th Wheel Hitch | CURT | Self-resetting with full articulation |
B&W Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3050
This model converts a B&W Turnoverball gooseneck hitch for flatbed trucks into a full fifth wheel hitch. The head articulates front-to-back and side-to-side, improving alignment on uneven surfaces. The cam action latching handle enables straightforward release even when the site isn’t perfectly level, making hitching and un-hitching safer and more convenient in remote locations.
B&W Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3715 (Chevy GM OEM Puck)
Designed for GM OEM puck systems (2020–2025). It features a fully articulating head for precise maneuvering and a cam action latching handle for easy release on unlevel sites. The hitch is built to integrate with GM’s puck interface, providing a clean, secure connection that supports stable towing on flatbed configurations.
B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3500
This companion hitch follows B&W’s reputation for quiet, reliable towing. Its fully articulating head supports front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting, while polyurethane bushings reduce noise and rattling for a smoother ride. The cam action latching handle ensures simple coupling and uncoupling, even on less-than-ideal surfaces.
Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel
Reese 30047 offers a high 16,000 lb trailer capacity with a 4,000 lb pin weight, improving hookup stability. Its design emphasizes a broader side-to-side pivot to handle uneven ground more effectively, aiding alignment and towing on varied surfaces common with flatbed applications of larger trailers.
CURT 16046 A25 5th Wheel Hitch
The CURT A-series 5th wheel hitch features self-resetting behavior, an ergonomic handle, and an extra-wide head for easier coupling. It provides full articulation to minimize chucking and shock loads, while a 3-position coupling indicator keeps the operator informed about the hitch state. It’s designed to simplify use in a flatbed context where frequent positioning is needed.
B&W 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch RVK3305
Compatible with Ford OEM puck systems, this hitch offers a fully articulating head and a cam action latching handle for easy release, even when parked on uneven ground. Its design supports robust towing performance in flatbed configurations, delivering reliable operation across varied terrains and trailer types.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
Purpose and compatibility: Ensure the hitch matches your truck’s bed type (flatbed), bed width, and the vehicle’s hitch platform (GM puck, Ford puck, or universal mounting). OEM puck compatibility can simplify installation for certain makes, while flatbed-specific hitches emphasize versatility and conversion capability.
Articulation and towing stability: Look for fully articulating heads that allow front-to-back and side-to-side movement. This reduces chucking and alignment challenges on uneven ground, which is common when backing into sites or parking on rough terrain.
Ease of use: Cam action latching handles, auto-lock features, and self-resetting mechanisms help reduce effort during hitching and unhitching. A smooth release is especially valuable on flatbeds where site conditions vary.
Noise reduction and ride quality: Polyurethane bushings and anti-rattle components minimize vibrations and rattling at the coupler. A quieter towing experience is beneficial for long trips and some flatbed deployments where the trailer-to-truck connection can be more exposed.
Weight rating and capacity: Choose a hitch with a gross trailer weight rating and tongue/pin weight rating that align with your trailer’s specifications. Higher-capacity models (e.g., 16,000–25,000 lbs) are favorable for larger flatbed setups with heavier fifth wheels.
Installation and maintenance: Consider whether the hitch is a direct bolt-on for OEM puck systems or requires more extensive mounting on a flatbed. Look for components that resist wear, provide easy lubrication access, and offer replacement parts if needed.
Brands and support: Reputable brands (such as B&W, CURT, and Reese) often provide broader compatibility across vehicle makes and better customer support. Availability of replacement parts and a solid warranty can influence long-term satisfaction.