Is the Fifth Wheel Pulled or Pushed?

In summary, a fifth wheel RV is a type of recreational vehicle that is hitched to the bed of a pickup truck and is pulled by the truck when going forwards. The connecting member between the truck and RV is under tension in this direction. This type of RV is no longer used for measuring a car's performance as modern technology has replaced the need for it.
  • #1
napria
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Background: For those of you who don't know, a fifth wheel RV is a recreational vehicle (trailer) that is hitched into the bed of a pickup truck, in front of the rear axel of the pickup. The rest of the trailer trails behind the pickup truck on two or three axels of it's own. Pickup's that tow fifth wheel's are rear wheel drive.

Question: is the fifth wheel being pushed or pulled? Explain why you feel it's being pushed/pulled in your reply, please. I am especially interested in anyone justifying why they think it's being pushed.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Pulled when going forwards, pushed when going reverse.

The connecting member to the RV is under tension (pulled) when going fowards (except when going downhill).

Also 5th wheel also describes a small 5th wheel with recording mechanism attached to a car to measure it's performance. These aren't used any more, as radar guns, GPS, and other modern devices have eliminated the need for them.
 

Related to Is the Fifth Wheel Pulled or Pushed?

1. What is a fifth wheel?

A fifth wheel is a type of hitch used to connect a trailer or caravan to a towing vehicle. It consists of a horizontal plate with a kingpin in the center that attaches to a corresponding hitch on the towing vehicle.

2. How does the fifth wheel hitch work?

The fifth wheel hitch works by using a locking mechanism to secure the kingpin of the trailer to the horizontal plate of the hitch on the towing vehicle. This allows for a strong and stable connection between the two vehicles, allowing for safe and efficient towing.

3. What is the maximum weight a fifth wheel can tow?

The maximum weight a fifth wheel can tow depends on the towing capacity of the specific vehicle and the weight ratings of the hitch. Generally, fifth wheels can tow anywhere from 15,000 to 30,000 pounds.

4. How does the fifth wheel affect the handling of the towing vehicle?

The fifth wheel affects the handling of the towing vehicle by distributing the weight of the trailer more evenly between the front and rear axles. This can improve stability and control while towing, making it easier to maneuver the vehicle.

5. What are the advantages of using a fifth wheel over other types of hitches?

Some advantages of using a fifth wheel over other types of hitches include increased stability and control while towing, better weight distribution, and the ability to tow heavier loads. Fifth wheels are also easier to hitch and unhitch compared to other types of hitches.

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