B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitches

The B&W Companion is a high-quality, removable 5th wheel hitch that mounts onto B&W’s Turnoverball under-bed mounting system. It provides a dual-purpose design: you can tow a 5th wheel or swap to a gooseneck (via the Turnoverball system) — all using the same mounting infrastructure. It offers height adjustment (various height settings) and full articulation in the head (front-to-back and side-to-side movement) to accommodate rig motion.  The B&W Companion mounts via a single pin to the Turnoverball system for easy install/removal.  The head is designed to minimize “slop” (excess play) and produce a smoother, quieter ride. 

In short: the Companion is a premium hitch option for those who want flexibility (5th wheel / gooseneck) plus solid performance in one system.

Key Features & Benefits

• Better durability and longevity under heavy use

• Cleaner, safer, easier swapping / installation / removal

• More comfortable towing (less rattle, better alignment)

• Flexibility — one system for different trailer types

• Less wasted space in-bed when not towing

Ideal Use / Applications

The B&W Companion is best suited when:

• You already have (or are willing to use) the B&W Turnoverball under-bed mounting system (which is required) 

• You want to tow heavy 5th wheel RVs or trailers, typically up to the 20,000 lb class (or matching the hitch’s capacity) 

• You desire the option to switch between 5th wheel and gooseneck without needing entirely separate mounting hardware

• You value smoother ride, reduced play or slop, and more stable handling

• You require the ability to remove the hitch when not towing to clear bed space

• You frequently tow over variable terrain, and need good articulation and flexibility

Care & Maintenance

To keep the Companion hitch operating safely and reliably, regular maintenance is key. Here are best practices:

1. Frequent inspection

   • Inspect the hitch head, jaws, pivot points, and all welds for cracks, fatigue, deformation, or excessive wear

   • Check for unusual play in the head or base

   • Inspect the pins, bushings, clips, and safety devices for integrity and proper fit

2. Lubrication

   • Apply a medium film of grease on the jaws / mating surfaces (as recommended by B&W) so the trailer’s kingpin can maneuver smoothly

   • Grease pivot points, bearings, and pins

   • Use a lubricant suitable for high load, high temperature, and heavy duty conditions

3. Cleanliness & corrosion control

   • Keep the hitch clean of road salt, grime, dirt, and debris

   • After exposure to moisture or corrosive environments, rinse and dry thoroughly

   • Touch up any chipped or damaged paint/coating to prevent rust

   • Ensure the mounting surfaces and receiver area remain free of rust or buildup

4. Torque / fastener checks

   • Periodically verify torque on all mounting hardware (bolts, fasteners) per B&W’s specifications

   • Replace any fasteners that show thread damage, corrosion, or wear

5. Storage / removal

   • When removing the hitch head, store it cleanly and securely

   • Use protective covers or caps if available to protect exposed parts

6. Replacement parts / service

   • Replace worn bushings, pins, or jaws as needed (don’t continue running worn components)

   • Use only genuine B&W replacement parts to maintain fit, tolerances, and safety

   • Follow B&W’s recommended service intervals (if supplied in their manual)

7. Operational best practices

   • Ensure that the trailer’s kingpin is properly lubricated and in good condition

   • Always follow load limits (GTW / VTW)

   • After coupling or decoupling, re-check hitch engagement and safety mechanisms

   • During first few tows after maintenance or reinstall, monitor closely for alignment, noise, slop — catch minor issues early

By following regular checks and lubrication, the Companion hitch can deliver long, dependable service with safer towing and less noise or wear over time.