5th Wheel

I am confused.

"1. a : a horizontal wheel or segment of a wheel that consists of two parts rotating on each other above the fore axle of a carriage and that forms support to prevent tipping. b : a similar coupling between tractor and trailer of a semitrailer."

What exactly is this 5th wheel? I haven't run into a clear explanation and every time I run into it I feel kinda stupid, I've heard it all my life but for some reason cannot wrap my head around it =/ please help.

Tia.. the 5th wheel is that huge round greased plate on the back of the truck that the trailer hooks up to.. a giant trailer hitch.

Tia, type "why do they call it a fifth wheel" inthe search bar on this page and you will find a great forum discussion that will explain the origin of that name. You will know more about it than most truck drivers after reading that.

Thank you Sue =) as I have seen this is something you can adjust and move for weight distribution purposes. Is this correct?

Thank you Sue =) as I have seen this is something you can adjust and move for weight distribution purposes. Is this correct?

Yes you can adjust your 5th wheel by sliding it forwards or backwards. Going forwards moves the weight into your steer tires, and off of your drive axles. And going backwards moves the weight off your steers and onto your drive axles. It can be a real pain to move. If you don't have a spotter. Or if It has not moved in a long time. It is much easier to move trailer tandoms.

Tia, type "why do they call it a fifth wheel" inthe search bar on this page and you will find a great forum discussion that will explain the origin of that name. You will know more about it than most truck drivers after reading that.

Thank you! I just had that "OHHHH!" Moment of realization I was trying to get to. Awesome.