a fifth - wheel hitch system is described including : a framework having an upright support ; wherein the framework is adapted to be secured to a towing vehicle ; a support plate member secured to the top of the support member ; wherein the plate member preferably includes a raised central portion and lower side portions ; a yoke member attached to the support plate member with fasteners which allow the yoke to be tilted away from the raised central portion of the plate member and then biased back to a central position ; and a receiver member attached to the yoke member for receiving and releasably connecting to the king pin of a trailer to be towed .