Answer: When choosing a fifth wheel hitch for a flatbed setup, look for quick attachment, solid articulation, and compatibility with flatbed configurations. The top picks below are best for heavy towing, easy hook-up, and reliable stability for different flatbed models. This guide highlights who each product is best suited for and why, plus a quick comparison table to help you decide.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demco Recon Double Pivot | Flats with standard gooseneck mounts | Versatile vertical height adjustments | Needs compatible 21K-rated gooseneck ball |
| B&W Flatbed Companion RVK3050 | Flatbed trucks needing full articulation | Fully articulating head for front/back and side/side pivot | Cam action latch; sturdy construction |
| Tulga Fifth Wheel Plate | Heavy hauls on flatbeds (hotshot) | High towing capacity and long-lasting coating | Requires compatible rails |
| B&W Companion RVK3500 | Quiet, reliable flatbed towing | Polyurethane bushings for quiet operation | Good compatibility with various hitches |
| Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate | Lightweight, easy handling with strong capacity | Low base height for maximum clearance | Designed for flatbeds, modular installation |
Demco Recon Double Pivot for Flat Deck Ball Mount
The Demco 8550046 Recon Double Pivot is designed for flat decks that use a standard 4″ tall, 2-5/16″ recessed gooseneck ball mount, provided the gooseneck ball is rated at least 21K. It offers three vertical height adjustments (11.5″, 12.75″, 14″) for flexible alignment with different trailers. A latch-style handle is built-in, allowing hook-up and release without extra levers or rods. Best for pickups with flat decks that need adjustable height and straightforward operation. A potential limitation is relying on a compatible 21K-rated gooseneck ball; verify compatibility before purchase.
B&W Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch- RVK3050
The B&W Flatbed Companion RVK3050 converts a B&W Turnoverball gooseneck hitch for flatbed trucks into a fifth wheel hitch. It features a fully articulating head for front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting and a cam action latching handle for easy release on uneven sites. The design emphasizes structural integrity and durability under repeated towing. Best for users who want strong articulation and a straightforward, reliable hookup. Limitation: the kit’s full benefits depend on compatible mounting hardware and installation space on the flatbed.
Tulga Fifth Wheel Hitch Plate Formed Steel 5th Wheel Plate
The Tulga T10 Model Fifth Wheel Hitch plate is designed for chassis and flatbed pickups, including Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, GMC, and Chevrolet. It emphasizes high towing capacity (up to 36,000 lbs drawbar) and a robust finish with long-lasting paint via cataphoresis. This makes it a solid option for heavy hotshot operations. Best for heavy haulers who need maximum vertical capacity and rugged coating. Caution: verify compatibility with your specific flatbed rails and mounting footprint before buying.
B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500
The B&W Companion RVK3500 features a fully articulating head for both front-to-back and side-to-side movement, ensuring smooth alignment with the trailer. It uses a cam action latching handle for easy release, even on unlevel sites, and polyurethane bushings to reduce noise and vibration. Best for flatbed users who value quiet operation and straightforward installation. Limitation: the system’s performance improves with proper alignment and mounting precision.
Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection
The Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel is lightweight (about 37 lbs) yet capable, supporting up to 24,000 lbs GTWR. It features adjustable height settings (two options) to fit different trailer setups and a low-profile base designed for flatbed trucks, prioritizing stability and clearance. Best for users who want easy handling and easy installation without sacrificing heavy-duty towing capacity. Caution: verify compatibility with your flatbed’s mounting system and ensure your hitch bed clearance is adequate for the lowered profile.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
What should you check first?
- Weight and capacity: Match the hitch’s GTWR and tongue weight to your typical load and trailer specs.
- Flatbed compatibility: Confirm the mounting footprint and rail configurations align with your truck’s bed design.
- Articulation: A fully articulating head improves alignment on uneven surfaces and reduces hitch binding.
- Height adjustment: Look for multiple height settings to accommodate various trailers and bed clearances.
- Ease of use: Features like cam action latches and built-in release mechanisms save time during hook-up and unhook.
- Durability: Consider coatings and bushings that resist rust, corrosion, and vibration in rugged environments.
Practical Comparison Questions
- Which hitch offers the best articulation for rough terrain? — B&W RVK3050 and RVK3500 emphasize full articulation and quiet operation.
- Who benefits most from a lightweight option? — Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate is ideal for users prioritizing easy handling without sacrificing capacity.
- What is essential for hotshot work on flatbeds? — A high vertical capacity, robust coatings, and reliable latching mechanisms, as seen in Tulga and Demco options.
- When is a built-in latch advantageous? — Demco Recon’s latch eliminates extra levers, simplifying hook-up on uneven surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the main difference between a flatbed compatible fifth wheel and a standard fifth wheel hitch? — Flatbed-oriented hitches emphasize low profile, strong mounting options, and precise alignment for flatbed rails.
- Is full articulation always necessary? — It improves alignment and reduces hitch binding, particularly on uneven surfaces or crisscrossed loads.
- Do I need a specific ball rating for my gooseneck? — Yes, ensure the gooseneck ball is rated to handle your towing capacity (commonly 21K or higher for heavy-duty setups).
- Can I mix brands on a flatbed? — Compatibility depends on mounting rails and hitch head interface; verify with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Which hitch is best for quiet towing? — Hitches with polyurethane bushings, like the RVK3500, tend to reduce road noise and rattling.
- What installation considerations matter most? — Correct rail alignment, secure mounting bolts, and matching head height to trailer coupler height.