Choosing the right fifth wheel shock kit can dramatically improve ride quality, stability, and safety on the road. This guide highlights five highly compatible kits designed to reduce sway, absorb road shocks, and fit a range of fifth-wheel setups. Each option below is suitable for common RV and trailer configurations, offering straightforward installation and reliable performance. Use this article to compare features, compatibility, and installation considerations before making a purchase that matches your trailer and towing needs.
| Product | Brand |
|---|---|
| AUTOVIC Fifth Wheel Spring Kit for Fontaine | AUTOVIC |
| JY Performance Fifth Wheel Mount Rails | JY PERFORMANCE |
| Lippert Heavy-Duty Shock Mount Kit | Lippert Components |
| 5th Wheel Installation Kit Universal | MWEDP |
| Lippert JT’s Strong Arm Replacement Swing Bolt Kit | Lippert Components |
AUTOVIC Fifth Wheel Spring Kit Feature Overview
The AUTOVIC Fifth Wheel Spring Kit is designed to fit Fontaine models including NT, 6000, 7000, and 7000CC series. It specifically targets models 1-KP181, 1-KP183, and 1-KP190, with replacement parts KIT-SPRING and KITSPRING. The package includes bumper, timer, and handle springs, providing a targeted upgrade to reduce vertical movement and improve overall hitch stability. This kit is particularly relevant for owners seeking a traditional spring-based stabilization approach and compatible with older Fontaine fifth-wheel heads. When installing, verify that the kit matches your specific head model and take care to align springs with the corresponding mounting points for optimal performance.
JY Performance Universal 5th Wheel Rails and Installation Kit
The JY Performance fifth-wheel kit focuses on universal installation rails for full-size trucks. It is a 10-bolt kit that includes rails, brackets, and hardware, and mounts on top of the truck bed floor. While not compatible with Reese Elite or Signature Series models, it claims broad compatibility with popular hitch brands such as Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley, and Husky. The kit provides multiple mounting holes to accommodate different frame sizes and includes adapter brackets to ease installation on select vehicles. This option is suited for owners seeking a flexible, broadly compatible mounting platform for various hitch systems.
Lippert Heavy-Duty Shock Mount Kit for RV Trailers
Lippert Components offers a heavy-duty shock mounting kit designed to fit RV trailers with 2-3/8 inch axle tubes. The kit includes gas shocks intended to absorb road shocks and vibrations, delivering a smoother towing experience. It features bolt-on installation, eliminating the need for significant modifications and supporting a range of axle tube sizes with two options: 2.375″ and 3″. This package targets RV owners who want a robust, easy-to-install solution that can adapt to different trailer configurations while maintaining a ready-for-use approach right out of the box.
MWEDP Universal 5th Wheel Installation Kit
MWEDP’s universal 5th wheel installation kit is designed to fit most full-size trucks and is compatible with Reese models #30035 and #58058. It serves as a replacement for Reese 30439 and provides a 10-bolt design along with hardware and brackets for straightforward installation. The kit includes spacers to ensure correct 1/2″ spacing between the truck frame and bed, reducing the risk of frame damage during bolt tightening. The construction emphasizes durability with a black powder-coated finish, delivering corrosion resistance and long-lasting performance in varied climates.
Lippert Strong Arm Replacement Swing Bolt Kit
The Lippert JT’s Strong Arm Replacement Swing Bolt Kit is tailored for frame mounting of the 5th wheel jack stabilizer. It is presented as an exact replacement component with two swing bolts, washers, and nuts, along with clear installation instructions for ease of use. The kit is designed to integrate specifically with Lippert’s JT Strong Arm stabilizers and aims to minimize downtime by providing a precise fit. It emphasizes compatibility with RV frames and related components to ensure a smooth replacement process and dependable operation post-installation.
Reese M5 Fifth Wheel Hitch Leg Kit
The Reese 30937 M5 Fifth Wheel Hitch Leg Kit for GM trucks offers a robust 27,000-pound capacity with a three-part modular design and tighter tolerances to enhance stability and long-term performance. As a trusted name in hitch systems, Reese emphasizes industry-leading shock absorption to minimize road shock, sway, noise, and chucking. This kit is positioned for buyers seeking high-capacity, dependable performance with an established engineering pedigree, suitable for heavier fifth-wheel setups that demand strong support and reliability.
Universal 5th Wheel Installation Kit for Reese Hitches
Yoursme presents a universal installation kit designed to fit most full-size trucks and is compatible with Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches #30035 and #58058. It includes mounting hardware and brackets to simplify the installation process and features a durable black powder-coated finish for corrosion resistance. This kit is positioned as a versatile option for owners who want a broad, adaptable solution that can support multiple hitch configurations without specialized tools or bespoke parts.
TonGass Lube Plate Pack for 5th Wheel
The TonGass TonGass (2 Pack) 5th Wheel Lube Plate set provides a friction-reducing solution for fifth-wheel connections. These PP plastic lube plates help minimize wear on contact surfaces and reduce the messy residue associated with traditional greasing. The dual-pack offers a cost-effective approach for maintenance, extending the lifespan of contact points between the hitch and the plate. This option is best for owners who prefer a clean, low-maintenance lubrication solution that complements other hitch upgrade components.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Compatibility and fit: Confirm the exact years, models, and hitch head types your trailer uses. Some kits are designed for specific brands or series, while others offer broader compatibility with common brands like Reese, Curt, Draw-Tite, and Lippert.
- Installation effort: Consider whether you need a bolt-on kit with minimal modifications or a more involved installation that requires aligning rails or adapters. Easy install kits are ideal for DIY updates, while more complex systems may require professional help.
- Component quality: Look for steel construction with corrosion-resistant finishes, high-quality springs, gas shocks, or heavy-duty mounting hardware. Durability translates to longer service life and safer operation under load.
- Performance focus: Determine whether you prioritize shock absorption, sway reduction, or hitch stability. Some products emphasize damping capabilities; others focus on mounting strength or alignment accuracy.
- Maintenance and servicing: Some kits include replaceable components (springs, bolts, swing bolts) that simplify future maintenance. A kit with widely available replacement parts can reduce long-term costs.
- Warranty and support: Check manufacturer warranties and accessibility of customer support for installation guidance or parts replacement. A strong warranty can add value to the investment.
- Budget and value: Compare the overall kit cost against the expected lifespan, ease of installation, and maintenance needs. A higher upfront cost may offer better long-term reliability and smoother towing experiences.
- Safety and regulatory considerations: Ensure the kit complies with relevant safety standards and that installation does not interfere with existing braking, lighting, or hitching systems.
When selecting a fifth wheel shock or mounting kit, prioritize compatibility with your rig, the desired level of stabilization, and the ease of installation. By reviewing the options above, you can identify a solution that balances performance, durability, and budget while delivering safer, smoother trips with your fifth wheel.