Fifth Wheel Pre-Departure Checklist
BeginnerComplete pre-departure checklist for fifth wheel owners. Covers king pin connection, landing gear retraction, turning clearance verification, and the critical tug test. Designed for both new and experienced fifth wheel towers.
Checklist 25
Check tire pressure on trailer and tow vehicle
Visual tire inspection
Retract and secure awning
Verify awning strap or lock is engaged
Retract all stabilizer jacks
All four corners plus any center jacks
Retract entry steps
Manual or electric — verify fully up
Check all exterior compartment doors
Push each one to confirm latched
Clear roof of any items
Check for forgotten items, branches, debris
Check turning radius clearance
Make a test turn — verify cab-to-cap gap
Test trailer brakes with brake controller
Verify brake controller gain setting
Test all lights
Running, brake, turn signals, reverse
Remove wheel chocks
Both sides — stow in truck or storage
Secure all cabinet doors and drawers
Check bathroom cabinet especially
Lock fridge door and switch to 12V or propane
Verify fridge is cold before departure
Stow loose items on counters and tables
Anything unsecured becomes a projectile
Close all windows and roof vents
Including bathroom vent fan
Verify smoke/CO/LP detectors are on
Test button if unsure
Secure TV and mounted electronics
Swivel mounts should be locked
Verify jaw is locked — visual check
Look under pin box to confirm jaw closed
Perform tug test
Pull forward gently — trailer should not release
Engage safety pin or locking mechanism
Secondary lock on hitch handle
Fully retract landing gear
Front jacks completely up — verify pin secured
Note fresh water tank level
Fill before leaving or when we get there
Empty or note holding tank levels
Gray and black — don't travel with full tanks
Set water heater to OFF
Never travel with water heater on
Turn off water pump
Prevents pump cycling while driving
Close propane tanks
Unless running fridge on LP
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