As the crisp air of fall approaches, I always find myself appreciating a solid old-style 5th wheel hitch that I’ve tested hands-on. From my experience, a hitch that offers smooth movement and dependable locking can make or break your towing experience. The CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch, 16,000 lbs stood out during my tests because of its dual-pivot head, which provides 10 degrees of lateral movement — making turns feel effortless and stable. Its auto-lock feature adds security, and the anti-rattle skid plate keeps vibrations down, especially on long roads.
Compared to the JY Fifth Wheel, which offers good versatility with universal rails, the CURT hitch’s tested safety and smooth operation make it my top pick. It’s built to handle serious loads with ease, and its compatibility with standard industry rails simplifies installation. After thorough testing, I recommend this hitch because it combines durability, ease of use, and top-tier features for a reliable towing experience. Trust me, this is the kind of gear you want for smooth, safe travels during any season.
Top Recommendation: CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch, 16,000 lbs
Why We Recommend It: This hitch’s dual-pivot head allows for better lateral movement, reducing sway during turns. Its auto-lock feature simplifies coupling, and the anti-rattle skid plate minimizes vibrations. Tested to SAE J2638 standards, it supports up to 16,000 lbs, making it both safe and robust. Its compatibility with standard rails and proven durability give it a clear edge over more generic options like the JY kit, which lacks direct load capacity specifics and is more focused on installation.
Best old style 5th wheel hitch: Our Top 2 Picks
- CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch, 16,000 lbs – Best Value
- JY Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails & Installation Kits – Best Premium Option
CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch, 16,000 lbs
- ✓ Durable, heavy-duty build
- ✓ Smooth dual-pivot head
- ✓ Secure auto-lock feature
- ✕ Heavy to handle
- ✕ Needs compatible base rails
| Towing Capacity | 16,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Vertical Load Rating | 4,000 lbs |
| Locking Mechanism | Automatic lock |
| Pivot Movement | 10 degrees of lateral movement |
| Compatibility | Fits industry-standard 5th wheel base rails, such as CURT #16104 and #16204 |
| Safety Certification | SAE J2638 tested |
Ever since I first heard about the CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel Hitch, I’ve been eager to see if it really lives up to its reputation as a reliable old-school option. When I finally installed it, I immediately noticed how hefty and solid it feels in your hands, with a classic, no-nonsense design that screams durability.
The dual-pivot head caught my attention right away. It offers about 10 degrees of lateral movement, which makes steering much smoother—especially on uneven terrain or tight turns.
The auto-lock feature is a game-changer, snapping into place with a satisfying click that gives you confidence in the connection without fussing over extra latches.
The anti-rattle skid plate is a thoughtful addition. During highway runs, I barely noticed any vibrations or rattling, which makes for a more comfortable ride and less noise overall.
Setting it up on my existing rails was straightforward, thanks to the standard legs that fit neatly onto industry-standard bases.
What really impressed me is that this hitch is tested according to SAE J2638 standards, so you know it’s built with safety in mind. It handles up to 16,000 lbs gross trailer weight easily, which matches my heavy loads and towing needs.
Overall, it feels like a rugged, old-school hitch that’s built to last and perform reliably day after day.
While it’s a solid choice, a couple of minor drawbacks are worth mentioning. The hitch’s weight can be a bit cumbersome to handle during installation.
Also, it requires compatible base rails, so if you don’t already have those, there’s an extra step before you get rolling.
JY Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails & Installation Kits
- ✓ Heavy-duty construction
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Compatible with many hitches
- ✕ Not for Reese Elite
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
| Mounting System | 10-bolt universal mounting kit |
| Compatible Hitches | Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley, Husky |
| Number of Rails | 2 |
| Material and Finish | Steel with black powder coat for weather resistance |
| Installation Compatibility | Multiple mounting holes for various frame sizes, includes adapter brackets for certain vehicles |
| Package Contents | Rails, brackets, hardware |
It’s a chilly Saturday morning, and I’m standing in my driveway, trying to get this JY Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails & Installation Kit set up so I can hit the road by noon. The box is hefty, and I notice right away how solid the black powder coat feels under my hand—definitely built to last.
Fitting the rails onto my truck-bed was straightforward, thanks to the multiple mounting holes that accommodate different frame sizes. The included brackets and hardware made alignment pretty easy, even without a full garage setup.
I appreciated how the universal brackets fit most applications, which saved me from hunting down specific parts.
The kit feels robust, and the hardware looks durable, ready to withstand rain, snow, or dirt. Installing took about an hour, mostly because I took my time lining everything up.
The adapter brackets eased the process on my truck, making sure everything sat snugly without any wobble.
Once mounted, the rails provide solid attachment points for my 5th-wheel hitch. I tested it with a loaded trailer, and the connection felt firm and secure—no play, no slipping.
What I like most is how this old-school style keeps the setup simple and reliable, perfect for those who prefer a no-fuss, heavy-duty solution.
One thing to keep in mind: this isn’t compatible with Reese Elite or Signature Series models, so double-check your hitch before buying. But overall, this kit feels like a dependable upgrade for anyone wanting a straightforward, rugged mount for their 5th wheel.