Creak and Crack

[akmacs]

Never had a towable or fifth wheel before so it may be normal, but when I lower my 5.0ta onto the hitch I hear some creaking and cracking type sounds from the trailer in the front frame area. This is when the weight transfers from the front leveling legs to the truck. No appearance of any issues so I guess this is normal but thought I’d ask if others hear the same thing when hitching up.

[CoolCampingKid]

Yes it is typical. Mine groans a bit too. I have had other 5th wheels as well and they didn't too. Have fun! Bill

[Chotch]

What brand hitch are you using? We have an Andersen and once in a while I’ll get a clunk as the ball slips in. That’s about it. I have heard a lot of other fifth wheel hitches groan and creak when backing in or making tight turns although these have always been much larger trailers. I thought it was the norm as no one seemed to worry about it.

[akmacs]

Anderson ultimate hitch. I’m certain it’s not the hitch and comes from the trailer. It almost sounds like walking on a creaky wooden step as the trailer pin box area takes the weight of the the front of the trailer. Sounds like it may be normal.

[Chotch]

Was pin adapter properly installed? The 4 set screws have to be torqued before tightening the 2 lateral bolts. The space between adapter and pin box should be parallel as the bottom pic shows.

[akmacs]

The cup for the ball on mine is oriented pointing towards the trailer but I loosened and retorqued myself this May so I think it’s all good there.