Travel Checklist for Pulling a 5th Wheel

Towing a 5th wheel RV requires preparation, attention to detail, and safety checks before hitting the road. Use this checklist as a guide to ensure a smooth and safe journey every time you travel.
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✅ Before You Hitch Up
Inspect truck & RV tires (tread, pressure, lug nuts).
Check all RV lights (brake, turn signals, running lights).
Inspect wheel bearings & brakes.
Verify propane tanks are secure & valves closed for travel.
Secure RV battery & check charge level.
Confirm jacks & stabilizers are raised.
Close slides completely & lock them in place.
Double-check all windows, vents, and roof hatches are closed.
Store and secure loose items inside the RV.
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✅ Hitching the 5th Wheel
Position truck correctly under the kingpin.
Inspect hitch for damage, cracks, or excessive wear.
Lower RV onto hitch and secure the kingpin.
Lock hitch handle & insert safety pin.
Attach breakaway cable to the tow vehicle (not the hitch).
Plug in 7-pin electrical connector.
Raise front landing gear completely before driving.
Check clearance between truck bed rails & RV.
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✅ Final Walk-Around Safety Check
Safety chains attached (if required by your setup).
Electrical cord secured and not dragging.
Landing gear & stabilizers fully raised.
Steps retracted & secured.
Door locked & latch secured.
Spare tire present & inflated.
Fire extinguisher accessible.
First aid kit stocked.
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✅ On the Road
Drive conservatively—allow extra braking distance.
Take wide turns to avoid curb or trailer swing.
Stop after first 10–15 miles to re-check hitch, tires, and connections.
Use tow/haul mode on your truck when descending hills.
Monitor tire pressure with TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System).
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✅ At the Campsite
Park on level ground when possible.
Chock trailer wheels before unhitching.
Lower landing gear and stabilize.
Reconnect propane & water systems.
Test electrical hookups with surge protector.
Walk around to confirm everything is set before relaxing.
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🛠️ Technician Tip
Having a certified RV technician inspect your 5th wheel annually—including bearings, brakes, tires, and electrical systems—reduces the risk of roadside breakdowns and keeps your setup road-ready.
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✅ Safe Travels
Pulling a 5th wheel is rewarding, but safety should always come first. Use this checklist every trip to keep your RV—and your family—safe on the road.
At RV Rescue Rangers LLC, we provide maintenance and emergency repairs to make sure your adventures stay worry-free.
🌐 www.rvrescuerangers.us
📞 830-387-9572
Rescuing Your Journey, One RV at a Time.