Finding the right fifth wheel plate for a pickup can improve towing performance, reduce friction, and clean up your rig’s appearance. This guide highlights five strong options, explains who each is best for, and notes practical limitations. It’s ideal for truck owners who tow regularly, including hotshot operators, weekend RVers, and long-distance campers.
Product quick reference (summary):
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| TonGass 2 Pack 5th Wheel Lube Plate | Budget buyers seeking mess-free lubrication | No-grease operation; protects hitch surface | Plastic construction may wear with heavy use |
| Tulga Fifth Wheel Hitch Plate (36000 lbs) | Heavy trailers on chassis/flatbeds | High towing capacity; durable finish | Compatibility varies with mounting bases |
| Threlaco 2 Pack 5th Wheel Plate | Spare plates for frequent travelers | Large surface area; grease-free towing | Polyethylene wear over time with mileage |
| CURT Rail Mounted Gooseneck Hitch | Gooseneck or conversion needs on rails | Versatile mounting to standard rails | Requires compatible 5th wheel base rails |
| DarkSmarts Gooseneck Plate | Heavy loads and standard rails users | High capacity; durable coating | May require proper rail compatibility |
TonGass 5th Wheel Lube Plate, 2 Pack
The TonGass lube plates are designed to reduce friction between the kingpin and the hitch plate, extending the life of the fifth wheel mechanism. Best for budget-conscious buyers who want a simple, mess-free alternative to greasing the surface. The two-pack offers ongoing protection for longer trips and multiple vehicles. Constructed from durable PP plastic, they emphasize wear resistance and durability.
Who this is best for: owners who tow less frequently or want an inexpensive, quick-change solution without the greasy residue. Caution: long-term heavy-use scenarios may wear down plastic plates faster than metal alternatives.
Tulga Fifth Wheel Hitch Plate With Mounting Base
The Tulga T10 Model is positioned for chassis and flatbed pickups, with a very high towing capacity of 36,000 lbs and a vertical capacity of 9,000 lbs. It features a robust coating system that resists rust through carmaker-grade cataphoresis. This option suits owners with heavy tows who need strong endurance in challenging environments.
Who this is best for: hotshot operators and owners of heavy flatbed pickups who require maximum drawbar strength. Limitation: installation and compatibility depend on the mounting base and vehicle configuration, so verify base rails and mounting hardware before purchase.
Threlaco 2 Pack 5th Wheel Plate Disc
Threlaco provides two 10-inch plates with a 3/16-inch thickness, designed to reduce friction and prolong hitch life. The large surface area distributes load effectively and is ideal for travelers who want redundancy for ongoing protection. Material is polyethylene, chosen for durability and wear resistance.
Who this is best for: RV travelers or mixed-usage campers who value continuous protection and a mess-free towing experience. Caution: polyethylene plates wear with extended use; replacing every year or two may be needed with heavy mileage.
CURT Rail Mounted Gooseneck Hitch
CURT offers a rail-mounted gooseneck hitch option that provides practical conversion from fifth wheel rails to a gooseneck ball. It’s a flexible choice for trucks that occasionally need a gooseneck towing capability. Installation is described as four-pin and removal-friendly for bed access.
Who this is best for: pickup owners who require occasional gooseneck towing without changing the base hitch. Limitation: must be used with compatible rail systems and may require additional hardware for full integration.
DarkSmarts Universal Gooseneck Plate
The DarkSmarts plate converts standard 5th wheel rails to a gooseneck hitch plate with a 30,000 lbs gross trailer weight rating. It blends robust steel construction with an upgraded black powder coating for corrosion resistance, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Who this is best for: truck owners needing high-capacity, shielded gooseneck functionality from their existing rails. Limitation: ensure compatibility with your 5th wheel rail baseline and mounting hardware before ordering.
Scottchen PRO 5th Wheel Lube Plate White
This white 10-inch, 3/16-inch thick lube plate eliminates grease on the kingpin, offering a clean and maintenance-free solution. It is designed to fit standard 2-7/8″ pins and installs with no tools. The material is high-density polyethylene, ensuring durability across multiple trips.
Who this is best for: RV enthusiasts who prioritize a grease-free experience and straightforward installation. Limitation: ensure pin box compatibility, as fit depends on standard kingpin sizing.
Scottchen PRO 5th Wheel Lube Plate Black
The black version provides a similar no-grease solution with a PTFE-style low friction disc designed to reduce noise and cushion the kingpin. It is a universal 10-inch fit with a 2-7/8-inch kingpin hole, compatible with most standard hitches. The design aims to minimize chugging sounds during tow.
Who this is best for: drivers seeking quieter towing and easier cleanliness, with a preference for a non-grease interface. Limitation: verify pin box size to ensure a proper 10-inch diameter ring fits your hitch.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Material and durability: Plastic (PP) vs. high-density polyethylene (HDPE) vs. steel plates. HDPE and steel generally offer longer wear under heavy use, while plastic remains lightweight and inexpensive.
- Plate size and fit: Confirm the plate diameter matches your kingpin size (commonly 2-7/8″). Some products also offer 12-inch options; measure your pin box before ordering.
- Compatibility with rails and mounting bases: Some plates are designed for specific rails or mounting bases. Verify that your truck’s rail system and mounting kit align with the product.
- Installation effort: Non-tool installations are ideal for quick swaps. Some models require mounting bases or additional hardware—check before purchase.
- Lubrication approach: No-grease options reduce mess but may wear differently than traditional grease methods. Consider your towing frequency and mileage when selecting.
- Heavy-duty towing needs: For high-capacity setups (towing over 30,000 lbs), select plates explicitly rated for higher weights and ensure rails support the load.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a fifth wheel plate and why do I need one?
A fifth wheel plate serves as the interface between the kingpin and hitch, reducing friction and protecting both surfaces. It also helps keep your truck bed clean by eliminating grease in some designs.
- Can I use any fifth wheel plate with my truck?
Most plates are universal for standard 2-7/8″ kingpins and 10-inch discs, but compatibility depends on rail system, baseplates, and pin box size. Always confirm measurements first.
- Is a gooseneck plate the same as a fifth wheel plate?
No. Gooseneck plates are designed for gooseneck trailers and may convert from rail-based fifth wheel setups. Some products provide conversion options, but check compatibility for your vehicle.
- Are no-grease plates worth it for casual towers?
Yes for cleanliness and maintenance, though long-term wear may differ from traditional grease-based setups. Consider your mileage and environment when deciding.
- How often should I replace a lube plate?
Replacement timing varies by usage and material. Typically, inspect for wear or cracking during routine maintenance and replace when performance declines or the plate shows visible wear.
- What should I verify before ordering a plate?
Verify kingpin size, rail compatibility, plate diameter, and whether the plate is designed for your towing configuration (gooseneck vs. fifth wheel).