Fifth Wheel And Gooseneck Trailering - Chevrolet 2008 Silverado 1500 Pickup Owner's Manual

Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are
a few reasons why you'll need the right hitch.
Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight
Carrying Hitches
A: Body to Ground Distance
B: Front of Vehicle
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When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must
be adjusted so the distance (A) remains the same both
before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle.
If you use a step-bumper hitch, the bumper could
be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample
room when turning to avoid contact between the
trailer and the bumper.
If you will be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg) be sure to use a
properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway
control of the proper size. This equipment is very
important for proper vehicle loading and good handling
when driving. Always use a sway control if the trailer
will weigh more than these limits. You can ask a
hitch dealer about sway controls.

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 your vehicle.
See "Weight of the Trailer" in this section for more
information.