Choosing the right king pin for your 5th wheel trailer is critical for safe towing and long-term durability. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards (including SAE J3045), and aggregated owner feedback from hundreds of real-world users. Our evaluation focuses on strength, corrosion resistance, compatibility, and ease of installation. Below are our top picks, each with honest limitations and who should consider an alternative.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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CURT 5th Wheel King Pin Top Pick Forged steel, 1.5 inch diameter, 4.5 inch length, rated for 20,000 lbs |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Demco Hijacker Autoslide King Pin Best for Autoslide Hitches 2 inch diameter, 5.5 inch length, rated for 18,000 lbs, compatible with Demco Autoslide |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Reese Fifth Wheel King Pin Best Value Forged steel, 1.5 inch diameter, 4.5 inch length, rated for 16,000 lbs |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lippert Components Solid King Pin Most Durable Solid steel, 1.5 inch diameter, 5 inch length, rated for 20,000 lbs |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trailer King King Pin Budget Friendly Carbon steel, 1.5 inch diameter, 4.5 inch length, rated for 15,000 lbs |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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B&W Companion Fifth Wheel King Pin Premium Pick Heat-treated alloy steel, 2 inch diameter, 5 inch length, rated for 22,000 lbs |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Husky Towing King Pin Lightweight Option Aluminum alloy, 1.5 inch diameter, 4.5 inch length, rated for 12,000 lbs |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. CURT 5th Wheel King Pin: Top Pick
The CURT 5th Wheel King Pin is our top pick due to its exceptional strength and consistent manufacturing quality. Made from solid forged steel and zinc plated, it resists rust and wear. In our evaluation of owner feedback, users reported zero issues with bending or cracking even after years of heavy use. The included locking pin and lanyard add convenience and safety during hookup.
However, this king pin is designed for heavy-duty applications up to 20,000 lbs. If your trailer is under 10,000 lbs, you might find it unnecessarily strong and heavier than needed. Some users noted that the zinc coating can wear off if frequently exposed to road salt, so occasional touch-up painting is recommended. Skip this if you want a lighter, budget-friendly option for smaller trailers.
- Precision machined from solid forged steel for maximum strength
- Zinc plated for corrosion resistance; includes locking pin and lanyard
- Meets SAE J3045 safety standards; compatible with most standard 5th wheel hitches
Pros: Excellent build quality and tight tolerances; Easy to install with clear instructions
Cons: May be overkill for lighter trailers under 10,000 lbs
2. Demco Hijacker Autoslide King Pin: Best for Autoslide Hitches
The Demco Hijacker Autoslide King Pin is a specialized solution for trailers using Demco’s autoslide hitches. It features a 2-inch diameter and hardened steel construction with a powder coat that resists chips and rust. Based on owner feedback, the integrated grease zerk makes maintenance simple, and users report smooth, trouble-free sliding during turns.
This king pin is not a universal fit. If you don’t own a Demco Autoslide hitch, this product will not work correctly. Some owners noted that the powder coat can wear at contact points over time, but this is cosmetic. Skip this if you have a standard fixed or manual slide hitch from another brand.
- Specifically designed for Demco Hijacker Autoslide hitches for smooth operation
- Hardened steel construction with black powder coat finish
- Integrated grease zerk for easy lubrication
Pros: Perfect fit for Demco autoslide systems; no adapter needed; Smooth sliding action reported by many owners
Cons: Only compatible with Demco Autoslide; not universal
3. Reese Fifth Wheel King Pin: Best Value
The Reese Fifth Wheel King Pin offers a solid forged steel design at a more accessible price point. It is rated for 16,000 lbs, making it suitable for many travel trailers and fifth wheels. In our comparison of owner feedback, users appreciated its straightforward installation and reliable fit. The black e-coat provides basic rust resistance, though it may not hold up as well in harsh climates.
Some owners reported that the e-coat can scratch easily, leading to surface rust if not touched up. This king pin is a good choice for occasional towers or those on a budget, but if you frequently tow in wet or salty conditions, you may want a more corrosion-resistant option. Skip this if you need a higher weight capacity or a more durable finish.
- Affordable forged steel option with reliable performance
- Black e-coat finish for basic corrosion protection
- Compatible with most standard 5th wheel hitches
Pros: Great price-to-performance ratio; Solid construction for moderate towing needs
Cons: E-coat finish less durable than zinc or powder coat
4. Lippert Components Solid King Pin: Most Durable
The Lippert Components Solid King Pin is built for longevity. Its one-piece solid steel design and galvanized finish make it highly resistant to rust and impact damage. In our evaluation, this king pin is ideal for full-time RVers or commercial use where durability is paramount. The 5-inch length provides extra clearance for thicker hitches.
However, its solid construction makes it noticeably heavier than forged pins, which can be a drawback during installation or removal. Some users also noted that the galvanized surface can be slightly rough, potentially causing minor wear on hitch jaws over time. Skip this if you prioritize lightweight handling or have a hitch with tight tolerances.
- One-piece solid steel construction for maximum durability
- Galvanized finish for excellent corrosion resistance
- Oversized 5 inch length for compatibility with thicker hitches
Pros: Extremely tough; stands up to heavy use and abuse; Galvanized coating lasts longer than paint or plating
Cons: Heavier than forged alternatives; may be harder to handle
5. Trailer King King Pin: Budget Friendly
The Trailer King King Pin is a no-frills option for those on a tight budget. It is made from carbon steel with a painted finish and is rated for 15,000 lbs. In our research, it received mixed owner feedback: many appreciated the low price, but some reported rust after a single season in humid climates. It is adequate for light to moderate use.
If you tow frequently in rain or snow, the painted finish will likely degrade quickly, requiring repainting or replacement. This king pin is best for dry climates or occasional use. Skip this if you need long-term corrosion resistance or plan to tow heavy loads near its maximum rating.
- Economical carbon steel construction
- Painted finish with basic rust protection
- Fits most standard 5th wheel hitches
Pros: Very affordable for budget-conscious buyers; Simple design; easy to install
Cons: Paint finish chips easily; prone to rust in wet conditions; Lower weight rating may limit use with heavier trailers
6. B&W Companion Fifth Wheel King Pin: Premium Pick
The B&W Companion Fifth Wheel King Pin is a premium offering with heat-treated alloy steel and a dual-layer finish. It is rated for 22,000 lbs and is lighter than many steel pins of similar capacity. Owner feedback highlights its precise fit and smooth operation with B&W hitches. The powder coat with zinc undercoat provides excellent corrosion protection.
However, this king pin comes at a higher price point, and while it can work with other hitches using an adapter, it is optimized for B&W systems. Some users reported that the adapter can introduce play. If you don’t own a B&W hitch, you may not realize its full benefits. Skip this if you are on a budget or use a different hitch brand.
- Heat-treated alloy steel for high strength-to-weight ratio
- Black powder coat finish with zinc undercoat
- Designed for B&W Companion hitches; may fit others with adapter
Pros: Extremely strong and lightweight for its capacity; Corrosion-resistant finish holds up well
Cons: Expensive; premium price for premium materials; Not universal; best performance with B&W hitches
7. Husky Towing King Pin: Lightweight Option
The Husky Towing King Pin is a lightweight aluminum option that reduces overall trailer tongue weight. It is anodized for corrosion resistance and fits standard hitches. Based on owner feedback, it is popular among those with lighter fifth wheel trailers who value ease of handling. Its 12,000 lb rating is sufficient for many smaller fifth wheels.
However, aluminum is less durable than steel, and some owners reported galling or deformation after repeated heavy towing. It is not recommended for commercial or full-time use. Skip this if you have a trailer over 12,000 lbs or tow frequently in harsh conditions.
- Lightweight aluminum alloy construction; easy to handle
- Anodized finish for moderate corrosion resistance
- Compatible with most standard hitches
Pros: Significantly lighter than steel; reduces tongue weight; Easy to install and remove
Cons: Lower weight rating limits use with heavy trailers; Aluminum can gall or wear faster than steel under heavy use
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard king pin size for 5th wheel trailers?
The most common king pin diameter is 1.5 inches, with a length of 4.5 inches. However, some heavy-duty or autoslide systems use 2-inch diameter pins. Always check your hitch manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing.
How do I know if a king pin is compatible with my hitch?
Check your hitch owner’s manual for the required king pin diameter, length, and weight rating. Most standard hitches accept 1.5-inch pins, but some premium or sliding hitches may require specific models. Measure your existing pin or consult the hitch brand’s compatibility chart.
Can I replace a king pin myself?
Yes, most king pins are designed for DIY installation. You will need a wrench or socket to remove the old pin and install the new one. Ensure the trailer is securely supported and the new pin is torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications. Some models include a locking pin for added security.
What is the difference between forged and solid steel king pins?
Forged steel pins are shaped under high pressure, resulting in a denser, stronger structure with better fatigue resistance. Solid steel pins are machined from a single bar, offering similar strength but often at a lower cost. Forged pins are generally preferred for heavy-duty use due to superior grain structure.
How often should I inspect or replace my king pin?
Inspect your king pin before each trip for signs of wear, rust, or deformation. Replace it if you notice cracks, excessive play, or if the surface is badly corroded. Many owners replace their king pin every 5-7 years or after 50,000 miles, but this varies with usage and climate.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top king pins, the CURT 5th Wheel King Pin stands out as our top pick for its exceptional strength, precision manufacturing, and broad compatibility. For those with Demco Autoslide hitches, the Demco Hijacker Autoslide King Pin is the best specialized choice. Both deliver reliable performance and safety based on owner feedback and spec analysis.
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