Why Are Some Trailers Called Fifth Wheels?

Why Are Some Trailers Called Fifth Wheels?

You may have heard of a camper trailer referred to as a "fifth wheel". We take a look at where that term came from and why it's still used today.

From ancient Rome to modern highways: The history of the fifth wheel

It’s one of the most important inventions in the history of trucking: The fifth wheel bears the brunt of cargo weight as it’s transferred from the trailer to the vehicle that’s hauling the trailer. Today’s fifth wheels are so reliable that they’re often taken for granted, other than regular cleaning and greasing. But that wasn’t always the case. The modern fifth wheel hitch was developed not over a period of years — or even decades — but over ce…