When it comes to towing a 5th wheel trailer, the integrated puck system found in many modern heavy-duty trucks offers a clean, robust, and often OEM supported solution. These systems eliminate the need for aftermarket rails, providing a direct mounting point for specialized 5th wheel hitches. Choosing the right puck system hitch is crucial for safety, ride comfort, and ease of use.
We researched a wide range of puck system 5th wheel hitches, evaluating them based on manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and extensive aggregated owner feedback. Our comparison focuses on key factors like towing capacity, hitch design, ease of installation and removal, and overall durability to help you make an informed decision for your towing setup.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch Top Pick: Premium Performance Single point attachment, fully articulating head |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT A20 5th Wheel Hitch with Rota-Flex Head Runner-Up: Reliable and Feature-Rich 20,000 lbs capacity, Rota-Flex head |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch Best for Short Bed Trucks Automatic sliding mechanism for short beds |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Reese M5 5th Wheel Hitch Solid Performer Articulating head, 20,000 lbs capacity |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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PullRite SuperGlide 4100/4400 5th Wheel Hitch Advanced Sliding Hitch Automatic cam-action sliding mechanism |
7.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection, Gooseneck Lightweight Alternative Lightweight aluminum, uses gooseneck ball |
7.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Buyers Products 30K 5th Wheel Hitch Heavy-Duty Value 30,000 lbs gross trailer weight capacity |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch: Top Pick: Premium Performance
While the B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch consistently receives high marks for its robust construction and smooth towing performance, its substantial weight is a common point of discussion among owners. The two-piece design helps, but the individual components are still heavy, making solo installation and removal a challenging task for some. This can be a practical limitation for those who frequently need to remove their hitch to utilize their truck bed for other purposes.
Owners who prioritize a lightweight hitch or frequently need to handle the hitch alone might find this model less convenient. If you have physical limitations or prefer a hitch that can be managed with minimal effort, you may want to explore lighter alternatives or consider a more permanent installation if bed access is not a frequent concern.
- Designed specifically for OEM puck systems on Ford, Ram, GM, and Nissan trucks.
- Features a fully articulating head for smooth towing over varied terrain.
- Utilizes a single point attachment and two-piece design for easier installation and removal.
Pros: Exceptional build quality and durability based on owner feedback and materials analysis.; Minimizes chucking and provides a very smooth towing experience.; Simple to install and remove, allowing full bed access when not towing.
Cons: Significantly heavier than many alternatives, requiring more effort for installation and removal.; Positioned at a premium end of the market, which may not suit all budgets.
2. CURT A20 5th Wheel Hitch with Rota-Flex Head: Runner-Up: Reliable and Feature-Rich
The CURT A20 with Rota-Flex Head is a strong performer, but its weight, while common for a hitch of this capacity, can still be a drawback for some users. While it is designed to be disassembled for easier handling, the individual components remain substantial. This means that installing or removing the hitch might still require two people or specialized equipment for comfort and safety, particularly if done frequently.
If you anticipate needing to remove your hitch often by yourself and do not have access to a hoist or other lifting aids, this unit might present a physical challenge. Consider your personal strength and the frequency of bed access needs before committing to a hitch in this weight class.
- Boasts a 20,000 pound gross trailer weight capacity, suitable for many large 5th wheel trailers.
- Equipped with a Rota-Flex pivoting head for enhanced articulation and reduced chucking.
- Features a unique 'tru-lock' indicator that provides a visual confirmation of proper kingpin engagement.
Pros: Good balance of towing capacity and features for a wide range of trailers.; The Rota-Flex head design contributes to a smoother, quieter ride.; Visible locking indicators enhance safety and provide peace of mind during hookup.
Cons: Can still be quite heavy despite modular design, impacting ease of handling.; Some owner feedback suggests minor learning curve for initial adjustment.
3. Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch: Best for Short Bed Trucks
The Demco Hijacker Autoslide is an exceptional solution for short bed truck owners, but its primary limitation lies in its considerable weight and complexity. The automatic sliding mechanism, while highly effective, adds significant bulk and mass to the hitch. This makes installation and removal a more involved and physically demanding process, often requiring multiple people or a mechanical lift, which can be inconvenient for casual users or those without dedicated assistance.
If you own a long bed truck, or if you seldom tow in situations requiring extreme turning angles, the added weight and cost of an automatic slider may not be justified. For users who prioritize ease of removal and a simpler setup, a fixed-head hitch might be a more practical and less physically demanding option.
- Features an automatic sliding mechanism that moves the trailer away from the cab during turns.
- Designed for short bed trucks, eliminating the need for manual sliding or external rails.
- Utilizes a wrap-around jaw system for secure kingpin connection and reduced rattling.
Pros: Provides excellent cab clearance for short bed trucks without manual intervention.; Robust construction and a reliable automatic sliding action.; Contributes to a stable and secure towing experience, especially in tight maneuvers.
Cons: One of the heaviest hitches on the market due to the complex sliding mechanism.; Higher cost investment compared to fixed-head puck system hitches.
4. Reese M5 5th Wheel Hitch: Solid Performer
While the Reese M5 is a robust and capable hitch, some owner feedback indicates that it can be prone to minor rattling or noise during travel, particularly over uneven terrain. This is often attributed to tolerances in the head or jaw mechanism. While not a safety concern, it can detract from the overall towing experience for those who prefer a completely silent setup. Adjustments or specific lubrication might mitigate this, but it’s a factor to consider.
If you are highly sensitive to road noise or prioritize an exceptionally quiet towing experience above all else, you might find this characteristic less desirable. For those who can tolerate minor operational sounds in exchange for solid performance and good value, the M5 remains a strong contender.
- Offers a 20,000 pound towing capacity, suitable for a broad range of 5th wheel trailers.
- Equipped with a fully articulating head for smooth towing and reduced noise.
- Designed for easy installation and removal from OEM puck systems.
Pros: Provides reliable performance and a secure connection for safe towing.; The articulating head helps minimize chucking and improve ride comfort.; Good overall value for its capacity and features based on market comparison.
Cons: Can be prone to some minor rattling or noise compared to premium options, based on owner reports.; Despite modular design, individual components are still heavy.
5. PullRite SuperGlide 4100/4400 5th Wheel Hitch: Advanced Sliding Hitch
The PullRite SuperGlide series, while highly effective for short bed trucks, is notoriously heavy and can be quite demanding to install and remove. The complex automatic sliding mechanism adds substantial weight and bulk, making it one of the heaviest options on the market. This can make it impractical for individuals who need to frequently remove the hitch and do not have access to mechanical lifting aids or assistance.
If you tow infrequently, or if you value the ability to easily remove your hitch for full bed access, the weight and complexity of the SuperGlide might outweigh its benefits. For long bed truck owners, or those who prefer a simpler, lighter setup, a fixed-head hitch would likely be a more convenient choice.
- Features a cam-action automatic sliding system for short bed trucks, preventing cab damage.
- Provides up to 14 inches of rearward travel for optimal turning clearance.
- Designed to connect directly to OEM puck systems with specific mounting kits.
Pros: Exceptional performance for short bed trucks, eliminating the need for manual sliding.; Robust construction and a proven track record for reliability.; Offers peace of mind with tight turns and maneuvering in confined spaces.
Cons: Very heavy and bulky, making installation and removal a significant challenge.; Requires more maintenance and lubrication for the sliding mechanism than fixed hitches.
6. Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection, Gooseneck: Lightweight Alternative
The Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection is praised for its lightweight design and ease of use, but it’s important to understand that it is not a traditional 5th wheel hitch. It functions as an adapter that converts a gooseneck ball connection to a 5th wheel kingpin connection. This means your truck must have a gooseneck ball, ideally one that mounts into your OEM puck system. While this setup is robust, it departs from the conventional jaw-and-kingpin hitch design, which some traditionalists may find less familiar.
If you prefer the classic jaw-style 5th wheel hitch or if your truck does not already have a gooseneck ball installed into its puck system, this product may require additional setup or may not be the ideal choice. It’s best suited for those who appreciate its unique lightweight design and are comfortable with the gooseneck-to-5th-wheel conversion concept.
- Extremely lightweight design, often made from aluminum, significantly easier to handle.
- Connects to a truck's gooseneck ball, which can be puck-mounted via an adapter.
- Offers a unique funnel-shaped coupler for easy hookup and a quiet ride.
Pros: Remarkably light, allowing for easy solo installation and removal.; Provides full bed access quickly when disconnected.; Generally reported to offer a smooth and quiet towing experience.
Cons: Requires a gooseneck ball in the truck bed, which must be puck-mounted.; Some trailers may require a specific kingpin adapter for optimal fit, based on design.
7. Buyers Products 30K 5th Wheel Hitch: Heavy-Duty Value
The Buyers Products 30K 5th Wheel Hitch is undeniably strong and capable of handling extremely heavy loads, but its no-frills design means it often sacrifices comfort and advanced features found in other hitches. Owners have reported that the lack of advanced articulation or dampening mechanisms can lead to a less refined ride, potentially resulting in more chucking and jarring compared to hitches with fully articulating heads or air ride systems. This can be a significant factor for long-distance towing or on rougher roads.
If your primary concern is maximum towing capacity and a basic, robust connection, and you are less concerned with ride quality or advanced comfort features, this hitch could be suitable. However, if you prioritize a smooth, quiet, and comfortable towing experience, especially with frequent use, you might find other options with more refined engineering more appealing, even if they offer slightly lower capacity.
- Features a substantial 30,000 pound gross trailer weight capacity for very heavy trailers.
- Constructed from heavy-duty steel for maximum strength and longevity.
- Designed to mount directly into OEM puck systems for a clean installation.
Pros: Impressive towing capacity, suitable for the heaviest commercially available 5th wheels.; Built with robust materials, indicating strong durability and reliability.; Offers a functional and straightforward design for heavy-duty applications.
Cons: Lacks advanced features such as highly articulating heads or automatic sliders.; Very heavy and cumbersome to install or remove, requiring significant effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a puck system 5th wheel hitch?
A puck system 5th wheel hitch is designed to mount directly into factory-installed mounting points, or “pucks,” located in the bed of modern heavy-duty pickup trucks. This eliminates the need for aftermarket rails, providing a cleaner look and easier hitch installation and removal.
Are puck system hitches universal for all trucks?
No, puck systems are OEM specific. Ford, Ram, GM, and Nissan each have their own proprietary puck system design. You must purchase a 5th wheel hitch or adapter that is specifically designed for your truck’s make and model’s puck system to ensure proper fit and safe operation.
What are the benefits of a puck system over traditional rails?
Puck systems offer several benefits, including a clean truck bed when the hitch is removed, faster installation and removal, and often a more secure and integrated connection to the truck’s frame. They also typically result in less rattling or movement compared to some rail-mounted systems.
How do I know what towing capacity I need for my 5th wheel hitch?
To determine the required towing capacity, you need to know the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your 5th wheel trailer, which is typically found on a sticker on the trailer itself. Always choose a hitch with a towing capacity that exceeds your trailer’s GVWR by a comfortable margin for safety. Also, consider your truck’s maximum 5th wheel towing capacity.
Can I use a gooseneck ball with a puck system?
Yes, many trucks with OEM puck systems also have a factory-installed or aftermarket gooseneck ball that fits into the center puck. Some 5th wheel towing solutions, like the Andersen Ultimate, are designed to connect to this gooseneck ball, effectively converting it for 5th wheel use.
Our Verdict
In our comprehensive evaluation, the B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch stands out as the top pick for its unparalleled durability, smooth towing performance, and user-friendly design for OEM puck systems. Its robust construction and minimal chucking make it a preferred choice for serious towers. The CURT A20 5th Wheel Hitch with Rota-Flex Head earns our runner-up position, offering an excellent balance of capacity, features, and value, with its articulating head providing a comfortable towing experience.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: June 9, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
