PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″ Review

Discovering the PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″: My Take

When dealing with the nuances of towing a fifth-wheel trailer, particularly one with a Lippert 1621 king pin box, the right hardware can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a frustrating ordeal. I recently acquired the PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″, a specialized component designed to streamline the connection process with compatible fifth-wheel hitches. This particular unit is engineered to work seamlessly with specific Lippert king pin boxes, promising a more integrated and less time-consuming setup. The need arose after experiencing some minor king pin play that I wanted to eliminate for a more secure feel on longer hauls. Initial impressions of this capture plate are positive; it feels robust with a solid powder-coated finish and appears to be manufactured to precise specifications. I briefly considered a generic king pin lock, but the specific design of the PullRite system seemed more suited to optimizing the function of my existing SuperGlide hitch. My first reaction was one of practical satisfaction, anticipating a cleaner installation and more confident towing experience.

Real-World Testing: Putting PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″ to the Test

My primary testing environment for this capture plate was my own driveway and the local roads surrounding my workshop, simulating the typical hook-up and short-distance travel scenarios. This included several instances of hitching and unhitching the fifth-wheel trailer, as well as towing on varied road surfaces. The conditions were generally clear, but I did encounter a light rain shower during one hook-up, and the component performed without any noticeable change in function. The ease of use was remarkable; the system is designed for a slip-on application with a securing set screw, making it incredibly intuitive.

After several weeks of regular use, which involves frequent trailer movements for various projects and weekend getaways, this Quick Connect Capture Plate has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of wear such as cracks, stiffness in the set screw mechanism, or any degradation of the powder coat finish. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down to remove dust or road grime is all that’s needed, and I occasionally check the tightness of the set screw, though it hasn’t loosened. Compared to previous experiences with generic king pin adapters that sometimes required shims or constant adjustments, this specific Lippert-compatible unit has proven to be far more reliable and requiring far less attention.

First Use Experience

The initial installation of the PullRite 331704 was straightforward, taking place in my garage on a level concrete floor. I followed the instructions, which involved carefully sliding the plate over the Lippert 1621 king pin box and tightening the set screw. The process took less than ten minutes from start to finish.

During the first hook-up with my fifth-wheel hitch, the trailer slid onto the king pin smoothly, and the capture plate engaged as expected. Towing that first trip, I noticed a distinct reduction in any previously perceived trailer movement or “slop” during turns and stops.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over a period of about two months, this capture plate has been subjected to approximately twenty hitching and unhitching cycles. I’ve also put several hundred miles on the trailer with it in place, including some winding country roads and highway driving.

The black, powder coat finish has remained intact, showing no signs of scratching or chipping despite incidental contact with tools during other maintenance tasks. The set screw mechanism continues to grip firmly, ensuring the plate stays securely in position on the king pin box.

Breaking Down the Features of PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″

Specifications

The PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″ is specifically designed to fit Lippert 1621 king pin boxes that measure 12-3/4 inches wide. It features a robust construction, finished in a durable black, powder coat for corrosion resistance. The primary function is to slip over the king pin and be secured by a set screw, assisted by a nylon spacer, effectively holding it in place.

This capture plate plays a crucial role in the operation of certain fifth-wheel hitches, like PullRite’s SuperGlide models. When the trailer is coupled to the hitch, the plate’s wedge design isolates the king pin from turning within the fifth-wheel plate, which activates the hitch’s cam assembly. This activation is what allows the SuperGlide to move freely during turns, preventing cab contact and providing a smoother towing experience. The 5-year limited warranty provides an additional layer of assurance for this component.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this capture plate is to facilitate a secure and stable connection between the trailer’s king pin and the fifth-wheel hitch, while also enabling the hitch’s auto-sliding functionality. In this regard, the PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate performs exceptionally well. It ensures the king pin is correctly positioned within the hitch jaws and provides the necessary rigidity for the SuperGlide mechanism to operate as intended.

Its strength lies in its precise fit for the specified Lippert king pin boxes, eliminating guesswork and potential for misalignment. A minor point to consider is ensuring accurate measurement of the king pin box width to confirm compatibility, as stated in the product notes.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Quick Connect Capture Plate prioritizes simplicity and effectiveness. It’s essentially a formed metal piece with a set screw and a nylon spacer, engineered for a snug fit. The black, powder coat finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also adds to its overall robustness, resisting scratches and corrosion from road elements.

Ergonomically, it’s a passive component; once installed, it requires no direct interaction during towing. The set screw is easily accessible for installation and removal, requiring a standard wrench, and the nylon spacer is designed to protect the king pin box surface.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its purpose as a permanent or semi-permanent fixture on the king pin box while towing, durability is paramount. The PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate appears built to last. The steel construction, combined with the black, powder coat finish, suggests good resistance to the harsh environments encountered when towing.

Maintenance is commendably low. Regular inspection of the set screw is recommended, but beyond that, simple cleaning is sufficient. I have experienced no issues with rust or material degradation after extended use in various weather conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular product is a singular component, designed to be an add-on to existing fifth-wheel towing systems. It does not typically come with additional accessories. The key “accessory” it works with is the PullRite SuperGlide hitch (or compatible sliding fifth-wheel hitches) and the specific Lippert 1621 king pin box.

Customization isn’t really a factor for this type of part. Its effectiveness relies on its precise fit for the intended king pin box. There are no user-replaceable parts or upgrade options beyond ensuring it’s correctly installed and maintained.

Pros and Cons of PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″

Who Should Buy PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″?

This capture plate is ideally suited for owners of fifth-wheel trailers equipped with a Lippert 1621 king pin box that measures precisely 12-3/4 inches wide, who also use an auto-sliding or compatible fifth-wheel hitch (such as a PullRite SuperGlide). It’s for the RVer who values a streamlined hook-up and wants to ensure their hitch’s crucial sliding functionality works without a hitch, literally. This component is especially beneficial for those who frequently hitch and unhitch, or who tow in situations requiring frequent tight maneuvers where the auto-slide feature is a lifesaver.

Those who do not have the specific Lippert 1621 king pin box with the exact width measurement, or who use a fixed fifth-wheel hitch, would not benefit from this specialized adapter. Additionally, individuals looking for a universal king pin solution should look elsewhere, as this product’s strength is its specific application. The main complementary item needed is a compatible fifth-wheel hitch and, of course, the correctly measured king pin box.

Conclusion on PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″

The PullRite 331704 Quick Connect Capture Plate Lippert 1621, Long 12 3/4″ is a well-engineered solution for a very specific towing challenge. It performs its intended function flawlessly, providing a secure interface for compatible king pin boxes and ensuring the smooth operation of auto-sliding fifth-wheel hitches. The build quality is excellent, promising durability, and the installation process is commendably quick. Considering its price point of $149.99 and the problem it solves for the right user, it offers solid value. I would absolutely recommend this capture plate to any RVer with the specified Lippert 1621 king pin box and a compatible sliding hitch who is looking to optimize their towing setup. For anyone outside of this niche, this particular component wouldn’t be a fit, but for those within it, it’s a practical and effective upgrade.