CURT 16045 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The CURT Q20 5th Wheel Hitch is engineered for quiet and smooth 5th wheel towing. It features a spherical axial bearing for multi-directional tilt, dual-locking jaws for secure kingpin contact, and a three-position coupling indicator for easy connection verification. Designed for select Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks with an 8-foot bed and puck system, this hitch has a 20,000 lbs gross trailer weight capacity.

Image: The CURT 16045 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch, showcasing its main components and robust design.

Setup and Installation

This 5th wheel hitch is designed for straightforward installation into the Ram truck bed puck system. The legs quickly and easily drop into the pucks using quarter-turn anchors. Ensure the anchors are adjusted to perfectly lock the hitch into place, which helps eliminate chucking noises during towing.

• Puck System Compatibility: This hitch is specifically designed to fit select Ram 2500 and 3500 models with an 8-foot bed and the factory-installed puck system.
• Anchor Mechanism: The quarter-turn anchors facilitate quick and secure mounting. Ensure they are fully engaged and tightened to prevent movement.
• Head Unit Assembly: The head unit attaches to the main base. Verify all six nuts and bolts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.

Image: Approximate dimensions of the CURT Q20 hitch, showing a 14" to 18" height range and 42-1/2" width, with a 20,000 lbs gross trailer weight capacity.

Image: A view of the Ram truck bed with the factory-installed puck system, where the hitch legs are secured.

For detailed installation steps, refer to the official Installation Manual (PDF).

Operating Instructions

The CURT Q20 hitch is designed for ease of use, featuring a self-aligning head and a single, short-throw handle for coupling and uncoupling.

• Coupling: Back your truck towards the 5th wheel trailer. The wide, self-aligning head assists in guiding the kingpin into the hitch. The three-position coupling indicator, visible from the truck cab, clearly shows the hitch's status (coupled, uncoupled, or ready to tow).
• Uncoupling: Use the short-throw handle to release the kingpin. The ergonomic design facilitates easier operation.
• Security: The handle is lockable for maximum security when the hitch is not in use or during travel.
• Quiet Towing: The spherical axial bearing allows the hitch head to tilt in any direction, contributing to a quiet towing experience by minimizing chucking.

Image: Diagram highlighting key features: wide self-aligning head, spherical axial bearing, lockable short-throw handle, and quick install 1/4-turn anchors.

Image: Close-up of the quick install 1/4-turn anchors, showing how they adjust to eliminate chucking.

Image: Close-up of the lockable, short-throw handle for easy operation and security.

Image: The three-position coupling indicator, providing clear visual feedback on the hitch's status.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your CURT Q20 5th Wheel Hitch. It is recommended to perform maintenance annually or as needed based on usage and environmental conditions.

• Lubrication: The hitch head features three easy-access grease fittings. Apply fresh grease to these points regularly to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.
• Cleaning: Keep the hitch head and the puck system clean from dirt and debris. Use a non-attracting lubricant (e.g., silicone spray) on surfaces that do not require heavy grease to prevent accumulation of grit.
• Bolt Torque Check: Periodically check the torque on all six nuts and bolts securing the head unit to the main base. Ensure they remain tightened to specifications to prevent loosening and noise.
• Rubber Component Inspection: Inspect rubber components for signs of wear or cracking. Replace if necessary to maintain optimal performance and quiet operation.
• Rust Prevention: If operating in coastal or high-humidity environments, apply rust-preventative lubrication to exposed metal parts.

Image: Close-up view of the three easy-access grease fittings on the hitch head, indicating points for lubrication.

Image: The dual jaws of the hitch fully wrapping the kingpin, designed to reduce chucking during towing.

Image: A polyethylene lube plate, which can be used to eliminate messy grease deposits on the hitch head.

Troubleshooting

• Chucking Noises: If you experience chucking noises, ensure the quarter-turn anchors are properly adjusted and tightened. Also, verify that the hitch head bolts are torqued to specification.
• Sticking Components: If the handle or other moving parts feel stiff, apply appropriate lubrication as detailed in the Maintenance section.
• Incompatibility: Certain turret-style pin boxes, such as Rota-Flex and Sidewinder, are not compatible with CURT Q-series hitches. Using incompatible pin boxes may create vehicle/trailer handling hazards. Always verify compatibility before use.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For any product-related inquiries, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact CURT Product Support. You can also refer to the official Installation Manual for detailed information.

• Official Installation Manual: Download PDF
• Customer Support: Refer to the product packaging or the official CURT website for direct contact information.