Answering the need for low-friction, maintenance-friendly hitch components, this guide highlights the best options for teflon-inspired discs used with 5th wheel trailers. While many lube plates are polyethylene, several products emphasize low friction and durable surfaces that perform like PTFE-style discs. This article helps buyers choose the right plate based on size, material, and compatibility. Best for long trips, high-mileage tows, or anyone seeking mess-free, quieter towing with minimal sticky residue.
| Product | Material / Size | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| CURT 16722 5th Wheel Hitch Lube Plate | 12-Inch Diameter | General RV use, all-season towing | Reliable, factory-style plate for standard kingpin |
| 5th Wheel Hitch Lube Plate 10 Inch Black | 10 Inch, Non-Grease PTFE Style | Low-friction, cleaner towing | Reduces noise; two-pack option for backups |
| Threlaco 2 Pack 5th Wheel Lube Plate, 10 Inch, White | 10 Inch, White, 3/16 Inch Thick | Backup readiness, long life | Two plates; heavy-duty polyethylene with protection |
| 5th Wheel Lube Plate 10″ White (2-Pack) | 10 Inch, White, No Grease | Spare on hand; standard fit | Easy install; 2-pack option |
| Threlaco 2 Pack 5th Wheel Lube Plate, 10 Inch, Black | 10 Inch, Black, 3/17 Inch Thick | Durable protection, travel reliability | Two plates; robust shielding against wear |
CURT 16722 5th Wheel Hitch Lube Plate
The CURT 16722 is a 12-inch diameter lube plate designed to reduce friction between the kingpin and hitch. Best for standard, mid-size fifth wheels that require a reliable, factory-style plate. It suits frequent travelers who want a straightforward, maintenance-light setup. A potential limitation is that its size requires compatibility with existing hitch housings; verify fit before purchase.
Who it’s best for
- RV owners seeking a proven, widely compatible lube plate
- Trailer users who tow on varied road conditions
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Durable, familiar form factor; straightforward installation
- Cons: May not offer extra-thick protection compared to thicker plates
5th Wheel Hitch Lube Plate 10 Inch Black
This no-grease PTFE-style plate emphasizes low friction for smoother towing. A good pick for RV owners who want cleaner operation without greasy residues. The 10-inch diameter is a common size, but ensure your hitch area supports this dimension. Best for travelers prioritizing quiet operation and reduced wear on the kingpin.
Who it’s best for
- Owners who dislike grease buildup around the hitch area
- Tooners needing minimal friction for frequent towing
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Cleaner, low-friction performance; no grease required
- Cons: PTFE-style claims may vary by batch; check fit with your hitch
Threlaco 2 Pack 5th Wheel Lube Plate, 10 Inch, White
Threlaco’s white 10-inch lube plates come in a two-pack for backups and continuous protection. Materials are polyethylene with a focus on longevity and wear resistance. Best for owners who want an extra plate on hand and an emphasis on mess-free towing. Caution: verify thickness (3/16 inch) aligns with your mounting specifications.
Who it’s best for
- Users who travel long distances and want a spare plate
- Those seeking durable plates to reduce friction over time
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Double-pack for reliability; protective surface
- Cons: White color may show grime; ensure proper thickness fit
5th Wheel Lube Plate 10″ White (2-Pack)
This 2-pack of white, no-grease lube plates is designed for standard 2-7/8 inch kingpins. Best for travelers who want a spare plate ready for install. The heavy-duty polyethylene construction aims to minimize wear and leakage while delivering quiet operation. Limitation: verify your kingpin size matches the 2-7/8 inch standard.
Who it’s best for
- People who want a ready spare plate
- RV households that value a clean, no-grease setup
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Easy to install; two-pack option for backups
- Cons: May not include friction-reducing coatings beyond standard polyethylene
Threlaco 2 Pack 5th Wheel Lube Plate, 10 Inch, Black
Black 10-inch plates from Threlaco are built for durability with a 3/17 inch thickness. Best for heavy-use rigs where extra protection against wear is needed. The two-pack gives continuity of protection across trips. Caution: thickness and fit vary by hitch system; confirm compatibility before buying.
Who it’s best for
- Owners with heavier tows or longer travel itineraries
- Users who prefer a robust, darker platen for less visible wear
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Thick plate for wear resistance; two-pack convenience
- Cons: Black color may show road grime; ensure exact thickness matches your hitch
Buying Guide: How To Pick The Right Lube Plate For Your 5th Wheel
What material matters
Lube plates are typically made from polyethylene, offering durability and clean towing. Some products advertise PTFE-style, non-grease designs for lower friction and easier maintenance. Compare material thickness, surface area, and the presence or absence of grease to determine which minimizes wear for your setup.
What size should you choose
Common sizes include 10-inch and 12-inch plates. Measure your kingpin diameter and verify your hitch receiver’s inner space. A larger plate can provide more surface protection but must fit within your hitch housing.
Two-pack versus single-pack
Two-pack options are practical for owners who travel extensively or want a spare plate ready for quick swaps. Singles may save initial cost but require more frequent replacements if you perform long trips.
Which is best for noise and friction reduction
No-grease, PTFE-style options target lower friction and quieter towing. Real-world friction depends on hitch geometry, alignment, and maintenance. When choosing, prioritize hard-wearing surfaces and clean interaction with your kingpin.
Fit and compatibility considerations
Check kingpin size (commonly 2-7/8 inches) and plate thickness. Confirm your hitch brand’s compatibility with standard lube plates. For custom hitches, confirm that the plate’s diameter and edge radius align with mounting hardware.
Maintenance and installation tips
- Clean the kingpin and plate surface before installing a new plate
- Inspect for wear, cracks, or warping after long trips
- Replace any plate showing signs of excessive wear or tearing
FAQ
- What is a lube plate used for on a 5th wheel? It reduces friction between the kingpin and hitch, protecting surfaces and minimizing grease.
- Are PTFE-style plates better than standard plates? PTFE-style designs aim to reduce friction, but effectiveness depends on fit and usage conditions.
- Can I use a lube plate with any 5th wheel hitch? Most standard hitches work with common 10″ or 12″ plates; always verify compatibility.
- How often should I replace a lube plate? Replace if there are signs of wear, cracking, or if towing becomes noisier than usual.
- Is a two-pack always better? Two-pack options are convenient for backups and long trips, but single plates can suffice for casual use.
- Do these plates require grease? No-grease designs are available; some traditional plates require a light grease film.