Owner manual

Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Trailering
Fifth wheel and gooseneck trailers can be used
with many pickup models. These trailers place a
larger percentage of the weight (kingpin weight) on the
tow vehicle than conventional trailers. Make sure this
weight does not cause the vehicle to exceed GAWR
or GVWR.
Fifth wheel or gooseneck kingpin weight should be
15 to 25 percent of the trailer weight up to the maximum
amount specified in the trailering chart for the vehicle.
See “Weight of the Trailer” in this section for more
information.
The hitch should be located in the pickup bed so that
its centerline is over or slightly in front of the rear
axle. Take care that it is not so far forward that it will
contact the back of the cab in sharp turns. This is
especially important for short box pickups. Trailer pin
box extensions and sliding fifth wheel hitch assemblies
can help this condition. There should be at least six
inches of clearance between the top of the pickup box
and the bottom of the trailer shelf that extends over
the box.
Make sure the hitch is attached to the tow vehicle frame
rails. Do not use the pickup box for support.
Safety Chains
Always attach chains between the vehicle and the
trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the
trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the
road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions
about safety chains may be provided by the hitch
manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. If the trailer
being towed weighs up to 5,000 lbs (2 271 kg) with a
factory-installed step bumper, safety chains may be
attached to the attaching points on the bumper,
otherwise, safety chains should be attached to holes
on the trailer hitch platform. Always leave just enough
slack so the combination can turn. Never allow safety
chains to drag on the ground.
Tow/Haul Mode
Pressing this button at
the end of the shift lever
turns on and off the tow/
haul mode.
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