Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a hitch plate having a rearward end that defines a throat for receiving a king-pin. First and second structural support ribs extend downwardly from a bottom surface of the hitch plate. A pair of ears extend longitudinally between the first and second support ribs. Each ear includes an aperture adapted to receive a pivot pin to pivotably support the top hitch plate on a supporting structure. Each ear is substantially offset from at least a selected one of the first support rib and the second support rib.