Weight compensation?

[Boulder]

I do not have a 5th wheel but a 5th wheel question. I currently have a Keystone Bullet pull trailer and use an equalizer hitch for tongue weight compensation. I am curious as to how a 5th wheel weight is compensated. Even though the "tongue weight" is transferred to the inside of the truck box is that enough? Or is there something else to know?
Any info appreciated.

[JRTJH]

Your trailer tongue weight is applied to the tow vehicle about 30" BEHIND the rear axle. That makes it act as a lever, with the rear axle acting as the fulcrum, lifting the front axle of the tow vehicle. Removing weight from the front axle can (not will) in some situations, cause the loss of steering and braking in emergency situations.

A fifth wheel applies the tongue (pin) weight about 2" ahead of the rear axle. That does not lift the front suspension and doesn't negatively affect steering, braking or maneuvering in emergency situations.

The purpose of the weight distribution hitch is to "lever" a part of the weight applied to the tow vehicle to the front axle, returning it to "pre trailer" attitude and placing that "levered weight" that was lost back on the front suspension.

[WaltBennett]

Originally Posted by JRTJH

Your trailer tongue weight is applied to the tow vehicle about 30" BEHIND the rear axle. That makes it act as a lever, with the rear axle acting as the fulcrum, lifting the front axle of the tow vehicle. Removing weight from the front axle can (not will) in some situations, cause the loss of steering and braking in emergency situations.

A fifth wheel applies the tongue (pin) weight about 2" ahead of the rear axle. That does not lift the front suspension and doesn't negatively affect steering, braking or maneuvering in emergency situations.

The purpose of the weight distribution hitch is to "lever" a part of the weight applied to the tow vehicle to the front axle, returning it to "pre trailer" attitude and placing that "levered weight" that was lost back on the front suspension.

Good explanation of the difference. I'll add that you still need to distribute your cargo weight in a 5er so you don't leave pin weight too light. This results in excessive 'chucking'. As an example, when I need to travel with a full fresh water tank, I may shift movable weight to the front (basement, bedroom, etc.) of our rig.