Pullrite Hitch - Diesel Forum

TowDaddy · 08-19-2006, 06:59 PM

I am moving from a 30' Airstream to a 34' Airstream in the next week. We have a Reese Dual Cam setup on our current trailer and this will be on our new setup. However, I have been looking at the Pullrites and I am intrigued by the ability to get a 90 degree turn radius. My understanding is that the Pullrite is basically an upside down fifth wheel hitch. I was originally concerned that I would lose the under bed spare but I was told that this is not an issue.

Any comments on the Pullrite. So that I get comments on the towing ability, lets assume that the cost and transfer to future vehicles are not issues.

Thanks,

Jeff

SmokeyWren · 08-20-2006, 12:03 AM

From what I've read over several years, the PullRite weight-distributing hitch is an outstanding hitch. It costs a lot more than ordinary weight-distributing hitches, but it tows as good as a fifth-wheel hitch - with no sway. It ranks right up there with the more-expensive Hensley Arrow.

http://www.pullrite.com/pullrite.htm

chrisnjj · 08-20-2006, 08:32 AM

Hi, Jeff. I have pulled my 2 enclosed cargo haulers about 70k miles with pullrites, the 20k model. I found them both from calling pullrite and finding used ones for which customers were selling. You will really notice a difference, especially with a single wheel 250. I have an e350 van and couldn't tow with a regular setup. Even with my dually 350 it is really noticible compared to the regular style hitch. One word of advice. On my van i originally had a 10k model and it wore out. The swing bar fell off the track. The 20k model is so much stronger and works with any size trailer. I have never seen a 90 degree pullrite and have heard you can store a spare with the right model. I would assume the 90 model mounts a little further away from the rear pumkin so it can go sideways and not hit the tires. Good luck. Chris.

TowDaddy · 08-20-2006, 08:27 PM

Chrisnjj,

Thanks for the response. One of the areas of concern with a Pullrite is that backing up is a different experience. The comment that I found was that it was not more difficult, just different. I assume that it is no different from learning to back a fiver. Any comments on this?

chrisnjj · 08-20-2006, 08:59 PM

I think it took me 1 tow to get used to it. I do know I can crank my trailers into much tighter spaces than I used to be able to. You do have to take corners a little wider.

USBuilt · 08-20-2006, 09:51 PM

I have a 180 degree hitch that I used when I had a travel trailer. When I got our 5th wheel I was disappointed. I had heard about how great 5th wheels pull. It pulled about the same as the Pull-Rite hitch, but has other limitations. You have to watch the clearance on the toolbox and if off road you have to be sure the tailgate does not make contact with the underside of the 5th wheel.

I have been in situations where you would think it would be impossible to turn around, but with the 180 degree rotation it is no problem.

It is a little different backing up. You have to start the turn a little earlier, it's just an adjustment. Another good feature is since the hitch can pivot, when you back up to hitch the trailer you can pivot the ball to get it under the hitch. Then hook up one bar pull forward install the other bar and you are ready to go.

One drawback is that the spare on my model can not be stored under the bed. That is a small tradeoff for virtually no sway when towing. A much more relaxed expierence and you are not constantly checking your mirrors for 18 wheelers.

Although the hitch is more expensive it is worth every penny.

USBuilt · 08-20-2006, 10:19 PM

If you decide to go with the Pull-Rite hitch, give them a call. They used to maintain a list of people who have hitches for sale. You may find one in your area for sale. Good luck.