Hitches - Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailer; Hitch Height - Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailer; The Hitching Procedure - Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailer; Towing - Jayco Eagle 264 BH Owner's Manual

Hitches – Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailer
Different types of hitches are available for pickup trucks to tow fifth-wheel travel trailers.
The best type of hitch is one that is bolted directly to the floor of the truck box through
the frame.
Another type of hitch is the mini-hitch. The mini-hitch has two brackets attached to the
truck box, and is placed over the fender. This type of hitch generally does not provide
frame support for strength.

Hitch Height - Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailer

There is no recommended hitch height for fifth-wheel travel trailers. The pin box is
adjustable at two inch intervals for variance in trucks and their suspension systems.
Always travel with the truck and travel trailer as level as possible.
The Hitching Procedure – Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailer
1. Block wheels.
2. Make sure the hitch lever is in its open or "cocked" position unless it has been
designed to open automatically.
3. Back the truck so the hitch encircles the fifth-wheel travel trailer pin.
4. A gentle contact of the hitch saddle against the pin will cause the mechanism to
close.
5. Secure the hitch lever as specified by manufacturer.
6. Be sure to raise the fifth wheel landing gear all the way up.
7. Attach breakaway switch cable to tow vehicle.
8. Plug the 12-volt DC electrical connector from tow vehicle to fifth-wheel travel
trailer.
9. Raise the tailgate of tow vehicle, if applicable.
10. When unhitching, make sure you do not forget to lower the tailgate.

Towing

While towing your Jayco travel trailer, you need to be aware of the extra weight behind
your vehicle. The following list contains some pointers to remember while traveling.
• With the travel trailer attached, you will have slower acceleration and require greater
distance to stop.
• Make sure you have enough area at corners when turning. Wider turns are necessary.
Use your turn signals for your own safety.
• When passing or changing lanes, take into consideration the overall length of your travel
trailer and allow ample distance and time.
• Use your rearview mirrors frequently to observe your travel trailer and traffic conditions.
• When being passed by a large truck or bus, be prepared for displaced air as it may cause
you to sway slightly.
• Upon climbing steep, long grades and again descending, use lower gears even before it
seems necessary. Use your brakes smoothly and evenly.
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