Fifth Wheel Questions and Answers

Reply:

If you are using the universal install kit, the hitch would be installed so that the king pin is approx. 1 1/2 inches in front of the rear axle center. Here are the installation instructions.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

There are many possible culprits that might be causing your problem. Is your fifth wheel hitch damaged in any way? Are you using a lube plate? Are you on level (or fairly level) ground when trying to unhitch your trailer? Does the locking mechanism work smoothly when not hooked to a trailer? Is the king pin damaged? Which brand and model of hitch do you have? I know, lots of questions. Please reply, and I'll get to the bottom of this for you.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Heavier duty construction and thicker steel provide a higher weight capacity on a 18k hitch, versus a 15k hitch. The higher capacity hitches would also have a wider stance, that is, the distance between the legs would be greater. If you are talking about the Reese fifth wheel hitches, the head unit on the 18k is larger, and the locking jaws fit the kingpin better, so the pin won't rattle and bang as much. Reese also offers the Signature Series in the 18k size. The benefit of the Signature Series is that the entire mounting system is under the bed. If you need to remove the hitch, there will be no rails whatsoever left in the bed to get in the way of any cargo you want to haul.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The 15K would be a great choice. You'll have 3,000 lbs of remaining capacity for that extra gear that always seems to find its way onto that trailer.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I'm not sure whether you have the custom or the universal installation kit. Here's the installation instructions for the universal kit and for the custom install kit, we have a how to video that shows the installation process. Because you have a short bed pickup, please make sure your hitch has a slider on it. Otherwise, there will not be enough clearance at the front of your trailer, and the corners will impact your cab during sharp turns.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The answer to your question is going to depend on the vehicle year, make, and model the hitch make and model, and which installation brackets you use. If you'll please respond with more information, I'll find an answer for you.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Other than towing it to a truck stop and putting it on the scales there, the best bet would be to contact the manufacturer of the fifth wheel. Try a google search of their name.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The custom install kit for the 1500 and 2500 model is actually the same. If this is the only fifth wheel trailer you are going to tow, and you don't mind having the mounting rails permanently mounted in your truck bed, the 15K Fifth Wheel with Slider would work great. However, if you want some additional capacity which will allow for some future flexibility, and you want to avoid having the rails in your bed, the Signature Series 18K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider would be an ideal choice. The Power Puck mounting system does away with the bed mounting rails, leaving only 4 mounting points in the bed that are flush with the surface.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The length of the trailer isn't really the important factor. Weight is the issue. A fifth wheel hitch will tow a heavier load because the connection between the trailer and vehicle is stronger, more substantial, and more directly connected to the truck frame. Much of the load is also coming down on the rear axle, rather than several feet behind it.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I'd recommend you use the 15K Fifth Wheel with Slider. A custom install kit is offered, as well. As far as the brake controllers go, you can't go wrong with the Tekonsha Prodigy. You'll also need the wiring adapter.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The answer to yor question will depend on which install kit you use and the length of your bed. The install kit that we offer specifies that the REAR of the front rail be 50 7/16 from the REAR of the bed (not the tailgate) for a long bed and 48 7/16 for a short bed.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

As a minimum, you need 6-8 inches of clearance between the bed rail and the bottom of the 5th wheel.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I'm going to assume you are speaking of a gooseneck hitch. To raise the ball up into the bed, grasp the handle, pull toward you while turning the handle. You might need to lubricate the mechanism if it hasn't been used in awhile.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Fifth wheel hitches are meant to be installed in full size pickup trucks only. Typically, compact trucks lack the power and frame strength to safely tow a fifth wheel trailer. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend installing one on your vehicle.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Here's my best advice. Try loosening the bolts that mount the rails to the truck frame. See if that will free up the hitch enough so that it will slide freely. Then tighten and re torque everything according to the manufacturer's specifications. The hex screws on the legs won't give you any adjustment.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Which install kit will you be using, the universal or the custom? The installation instructions for the custom install kit state that the center line of the hitch should fall 53.75 inches back from the front of the bed.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I'm sorry, but we do not have an installation video that pertains to your vehicle. We do have the installation instructions, however.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I have checked both the custom and the universal hitch installation kits that are available for your 2006 Chevy Pickup. Both kits require some drilling on the frame. These install kits are supplied by the hitch manufacturer (Reese) which is a reputable company. As long as the install is done according to the manufacturer's instructions included above, I wouldn't be concerned about drilling on the frame.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Anytime a truck with a bed shorter than 8 feet is used to tow a 5th wheel trailer, a Slider Fifth Wheel Hitch, along with an extended pin box, is recommended to help compensate for the reduced turning clearance. Without the slider or pin box extension the trailer can strike the cab on sharp turns. The Slider allows the vehicle to make normal turns during low speed maneuvering. The extended pin box (minimum 13") creates even more space between the truck cab and the trailer.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

If your bed is any shorter than 6 feet long, you cannot safely tow a fifth wheel trailer. There would not be enough room between the rear of the cab and the front of the trailer for the corners of the trailer to clear the cab corners. A smashed cab, or trailer would be the result.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

For your vehicle, typically, the fifth wheel hitch is installed so that the center line of the king pin will sit 1 1/2 inches forward of the axle centerline. I'm not sure which install kit you are using, but the same holds true for both the Custom Install Kit and the Universal Install Kit.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Because of variations in different vehicles, I'm going to recommend you contact your Dodge dealer for the 5th wheel capacity of your truck. If you provide them with your VIN number, they should be able to find this information for you.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Simply take some sand paper, and sand the area down to bare metal. Get some spray primer and paint meant for use on metal, and touch up the area with the primer first, and then with the paint. Remember, a few thin coats work better than one thick one.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

When the Truck and the trailer were tilted differently as you pulled forward, that could have twisted the king pin from the hitch. This would have damaged the hitch. If you don't see any damage to the locking jaws on the hitch, then it probably wasn't fully locked into place, allowing the king pin to unhitch. I'm not aware of any recurring problems with the Reese 15K fifth wheel hitch.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Mounting the springs so that they are on top of the axle, instead of underneath might prove helpful (if they are not that way already.) Flipping the equalizer will not work, as it would actually lower your trailer. You might also try using taller spring hangers, which might get you enough clearance to be helpful.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The best vehicle would be a full sized pickup truck, a 3/4 Ton truck would be best. A Ford F250, Chevy/GMC 2500, or Dodge Ram 2500 for example. All three are good vehicles, and any of them would serve you well. You might also want to consider a truck with a Diesel engine. The fuel is more expensive right now, but the engines are more durable, and will usually last longer. Make sure you get a truck with the factory installed tow package, which USUALLY includes a heavier duty cooling system and suspension. A full length bed is also recommended, otherwise you'll need a hitch with a slider.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Here are the installation instructions that you requested. We also have a step by step installation video that you might find helpful.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Are you looking for the instructions on how to use your hitch, or how to install it? The installation instructions will depend on whether you use a 'custom' or 'universal' install kit. If you'll reply with more information as well as the part # of the hitch, I'll get you the information you need.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The mounting rails sit about 1 inch above the surface of a truck bed. If the slide in type camper will still rest on the top of the bed, it should work.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I'm going to refer you to your owner's manual or your Ford dealer for the fifth wheel towing capacity of your vehicle. Many times, the installation brackets for a fifth wheel will occupy the same space needed to install the air bags, so finding the capacity of the truck is where you want to start. If your bed is no shorter than 6 feet, you can use a slider. The dimensions of the trailer aren't as important as what it weighs and your trucks ability to tow it.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Backing to lock the slider back in place is generally how it's done, but as we do not carry the Huskey brand, I'm not that familiar with how they work. You might want to contact the manufacturer or the dealer where your purchased the hitch for specific instructions.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I'm sorry, but on your particular truck, the box isn't long enough to safely tow a 5th wheel trailer. It would need to be at least 6 feet. Even when using an extedned pin box and slider, the front of the trailer could come into contact with the rear of the truck cab, damaging both.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

There is no adjustment possible to hold the jaws open. When pulling the handle out, there is a detent on the handle itself that will hold the jaws open. Pull the handle to the side (away from the trailer) and when the jaws are in the open position, push the handle towards the front of the vehicle, and it will lock in place.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

For information about the weight capacity for a fifth wheel, you'd want to consult your owner's manual or dealer. A fifth wheel hitch does distribute the weight of the trailer between the axles, with the majority on the rear axle. If your bed is shorter than 6 feet, a fifth wheel hitch is not recommended, due to the lack of clearance between the front of the trailer and the rear of the truck cab. If you have the 6 foot bed, the use of a hitch with a slider is recommended, to provide clearance for low speed maneuvering. The hitch I'd recommend will depend on the weight of the trailer. If you'd care to provide me with this information, I can make a recommendation for you.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The size of the kingpin is standard. You don't mention any specifics about the truck or hitch you are planning to use, so I cannot be very specific in my response. Generally speaking, it the fifth wheel hitch has the needed capacity to tow the RV, and the hitch is properly installed in the truck, you should be OK. One thing confuses me, though. You mention a fifth wheel hitch used to haul heavy equipment. Usually, fifth wheel hitches are meant for RV applications, while a gooseneck hitch is used for heavy equipment. Is this what you were speaking of?

reply by: Mike

Reply:

According to the information I currently have, Fifth wheel installation rails cannot be installed over plastic bed liners. The liner will eventually disintegrate resulting in a loose hitch. However, the installation rails can be installed over a spray in liner. In other words, if the mat you describe is removable, you cannot mount the rails over it. You could cut away the mat around the rails, so the rails would mount directly to the bed, if you wish.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

With a super short bed (typically less than 6 feet), even with a slider and an extended pin box, the front corners of the fifth wheel trailer can impact the rear of the cab during sharp turns. This can damage both the truck and the trailer. There is just not enough clearance for the trailer to make a complete turn to each side without striking the cab.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

You will need brackets or an installation kit to install that fifth wheel hitch. You don't mention the model of Ford that the hitch came from, or the one you'd like to install your hitch into. If the fifth wheel hitch is a Reese, Draw-Tite, or Hidden Hitch, we would have an installation kit for it. The model or part # of the hitch would be helpful as well. If you could email me this information, I can come up with a more specific answer for you.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Fifth wheel hitches are typically installed on full sized trucks. I really cannot recommend installing one on a smaller truck like your Tacoma.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Here's some installation instructions for the universal installation kit for that hitch. Just click on the "instructions" link about a third of the way down the page. Since your truck has the short bed on it, I would strongly recommend a slider. A slider will prevent the front of your trailer from coming into contact with the rear of your cab during sharp turns.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

You can swap the hitch from one truck to the other, but to use it in the short bed, you'll need a slider to prevent the front of the trailer from impacting the back of the cab during sharp turns. The hitch will need to be secured to the frame of the vehicle using an install kit. You don't mention whether the 2007 Chevy is a New Body or a Classic model, or what brand of hitch it is. We offer sliders for Hidden Hitch, Reese , Draw Tite, Valley and Curt. We also offer install kits as well. If you would care to send me more information on the vehicle and hitch model, I can recommend a slider and an install kit.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

We do offer 5th wheel hitches that will work with your 2002 Chevy. You don't mention the weight of the trailer, but you'll need to make sure you aren't exceeding the manufacturer's recommended towing capacities. Also, because you have a short bed truck, you will also need a slider and probably an extended pin box, so the front of the trailer will not contact the rear of the cab during sharp turns. For your dually, We offer a 30K Fifth Wheel Hitch by Reese that is recommended for converted trucks like yours. As far as the clearances go, you'll need to do some measuring. The hitch will need to be mounted so that the king pin falls a few inches forward of the rear axle. I'd measure from that point back to the rear of the bed, then to both corners. On the trailer that you want to use, measure from the king pin back to the front of the trailer (and the corners). This will tell you wether the trailer will clear the corners of your bed.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The hitch that you need is going to depend on a few factors. First, you'll need to know the weight of the trailer that you are wanting to tow. Secondly, which features are important to you? If you are going to want the full use of the bed of your truck when the hitch is installed, something like the Signature Series 18K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider might be for you. The mounting system for this hitch is completly contained under the bed, with no rails left in your truck bed when you remove the hitch. The other models will work just as well, such as the 18K Select Plus Fifth Wheel Hitch with Round Tube Slider which would mount on rails. There are other available hitches, depending on the capacity needed. Because of the short bed on your truck, an extended pin box AND a slider is necessary to prevent the trailer from impacting the rear of your cab during sharp turns.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

We do not carry Atwood 5th wheel hitches, so unfortunately I do not have any specific installation instructions. If they offer a vehicle specific installation kit, the kit itself (where the brackets install) will dictate where in the bed the hitch installs. I'd recommend you contact the manufacturer for more information.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

You definitely will need a slider for your hitch. In a short box truck, the front of the trailer can come into contact with the rear of the cab during sharp turns. During parking or low speed maneuvering, the hitch is slid to its rearmost position to maximize clearance. During normal towing, the hitch is slid forward to place the king pin at or slightly in front of the rear axle.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

I can reply with a definite maybe. IF the height of your bed is about the height of the bed in a F350 with a typical bed on it AND IF the height of your tool boxes isn't higher than the bed rails on a typical F350, you'd probably be OK. What you are looking for is at least 6-8 inches of clearance between the bottom of the trailer front and any bed rails/ tool boxes, etc.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

That universal install kit will work just fine with your hitch and your vehicle. We also offer a custom installation kit that could save you a few hours of installation time.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Valley makes a great 5th wheel hitch, the model you have should work just fine for you, as long as you use the slider

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The clamping jaws are acutated by a spring loaded linkage. The springs are quite stiff, and are designed to hold the jaws in the closed position.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

What is the make and model or part # of your hitch?

reply by: Mike

Reply:

the hitch is a Reese Kwik-Slide Pt # 30049.

reply by: Dan

Reply:

If you are using the custom installation kit use these instructions. If you are using the universal installation kit use these instructions. On either page, click on the 'Instructions' link.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Fifth wheel hitches are typically installed on full sized trucks. I really cannot recommend installing one on a smaller truck, especially in your case, where the unloaded trailer weight is so close to the towing capacity of your Tacoma.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Typically, the location of the installation is dictated by the custom install kit (if you use one.) If you use the universal kit, it is recommended that the hitch be installed directly over, or no more than an inch or so forward of the rear axle. By the way, you mention that you do not have a slider on your hitch. I'd STRONGLY recommend that you obtain one or your trailer can impact the rear of your cab during tight maneuvering.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Thanks for the reply. Another question. If I install my conventional 15K hitch (non slider) on now and later I purchase another 15K slider hitch, are the rails compatible? Also, will I have to get the rails re-installed to accommodate the slide hitch, or can I leave the rails as is and just install the slide hitch where the conventional non-slide hitch was?

reply by: Don

Reply:

As long as the 5th wheel is a Reese, the rails are compatable. We do sell the slider unit by itself. The rail installation is the same whether or not you use a slider (a slider is needed if your truck has the short bed.) Note: If your Hidden Hitch 5th wheel hitch was manufactured before 2004, the spacing where the slider/legs attach to the head unit must measure 3" wide. If the spacing measures 4", the slider will not fit.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The problem involved in using a fifth wheel hitch on a vehicle that's been lifted 6" is that I don't know who manufactured your lift kit, and don't know if using their kit has compromised your vehicle's towing capacity. I'd recommend contacting that manufacturer and seeing what they have to say about the issue. Another possible (although unlikely) issue is the overhang on the trailer clearing the rear of your bed.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The hitch adapters are a great item if you are going to use them occasionally, towing for short distances. The best practice would be to get a rail mounted gooseneck hitch. Then, you can always get a fifth wheel hitch when needed, and since they both mount to the rails, switch back and forth as needed.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

What make and model of fifth wheel hitch do you have? Many 5th wheel hitches have a 'lockout pin' which is inserted when the hitch is engaged, which prevents the hitch from opening. The lube plate shouldn't have anything to do with the hitch disengaging. If you would email me back with the model of hitch that you have, maybe I can be more definitive.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Thank you Michael, this is the hitch I use. Please advise on what I can do to avoid this problem.Reese part # 30047 16K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch 16000 lbs. Capacity 4000

reply by: Alex

Reply:

If the hitch is fully engaged, and the locking pin is in place, I cannot think of a reason why your hitch would disengage. I still don't feel that the lube plate is an issue, but you could try without it, just put grease directly on the head, and see if that solves the problem.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Assuming that you are using the custom install kit you can use these installation instructions.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Yes, the hitches are removable, by pulling 4 pins, but the rails that the hitch mounts to are permanently installed.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Assuming that the LIL ROCKER is a Reese product (I believe it is) these installation instructions should prove helpful. I'd recommend installing the hitch first, so the air bags don't get in the way of the hitch install brackets. I don't have any real meaningful parking and towing advice. Just be careful, and practice makes perfect.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

We cannot recommend installing a fifth wheel hitch to your vehicle. The installed hitch gains some of its strength by being isntalled to a rigid bed, not one constructed with the wooden planks on your 1968 Chevy.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

It sounds as if your hitch is correctly installed. Some banging and clattering is normal, but if you feel what you are experiencing is excessive, I'd recommend taking the installer on a test drive and get his input. Also very obvious, (but worth checking) make sure your slider is locked in the fully forward position.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

You don't mention the year and make of your vehicle, or the capacity of the hitch, but generally speaking, The Reese 'Signature Series' or 'Select Plus' has the greatest range of plate movement, which makes hitching easier. There is an expense with this added convenience, but in your case, it would definitely lessen your frustration.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

thanks for your reply- I have a draw-tite hitch- I would have to check the hitch for the number but it is a slider- hitch also- If I get the number- is there a possibility to change " head" of the hitch without changing the entire hitch?

reply by: Doug

Reply:

What you are wanting to do is possible, you would need a replacement head and a replacement head support.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Heavier duty construction and thicker steel provide a higher weight capacity on a 20k hitch, versus a 15k hitch. The higher capacity hitches would also have a wider stance, that is, the distance between the legs would be greater.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

We do offer 5th wheel hitches for the 2005 Toyota Tundra with the short (6 1/2 foot) bed. All require a slider to prevent the trailer from coming in contact with the cab. You can view these 5th wheel hitches and current prices on our web site using the following link:
5th Wheel Options for 2005 Toyota Tundra with Short Bed

reply by: Heather

Reply:

We do have links to installation instructions for most of the hitches offered on our site. Based on the information you provided the installation instructions for the 16K Fifth Wheel Hitch by Reese and the Kwik Slide Fifth Wheel Slider should provide all the information you need. Just click on the provided link for each item and the etrailer.com page that comes up has a link to click on for the instructions.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

We do have links to installation instructions for most of the hitches offered on our site. Once you use our Hitch Hunter Guide to find all the available 5th wheels for your Ford truck you can click on the part number for the hitch and the next page will offer a link to the actual instructions. If you want to view the instructions for the installation kit click on that part number. These instructions require Adobe Acrobat. If you do not have a copy installed, it may be downloaded at Adobe Acrobat.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

The gooseneck and 5th wheel hitches use the same area for installation on and under the truck bed. You will not be able to install a 5th wheel hitch on your truck with the gooseneck already there. We do offer adapters that would allow you to haul your 5th wheel trailer with the gooseneck ball. The only other option would be to remove your existing gooseneck hitch and replace it with 5th wheel rails. Those rails then could support a 5th wheel hitch or gooseneck ball (but not at the same time). You can use our Custom Fit Trailer Hitch Finder to see what 5th wheel hitches and installation kits are available for your truck.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

I am sorry to hear about your experience with the 5th wheel. The specific installation instructions that come with your 5th wheel will state how much clearance is recommended between the sides of the truck and the bottom of the trailer; generally this is about 5-6". To maximize the clearance you can place the 5th wheel hitch in it's highest position (now most hitches are adjustable height wise). If clearance still causes concern you may need to look into raising the entire trailer or lowering the entire truck.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

The specific installation instructions that come with your 5th wheel will state how much clearance is recommended between the sides of the truck and the bottom of the trailer; generally this is about 5-6". To maximize the clearance you can place the 5th wheel hitch in it's highest position (now most hitches are adjustable height wise). If clearance still causes concern you may need to look into raising the entire trailer or lowering the entire truck.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

The 15K Fifth Wheel hitch with square slider by Reese ( part number 30049 ) offers a head that pivots front to back. The actual legs of the hitch (that are attached to the slider) do not pivot.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

The installation instructions for the standard 5th wheels hitches (by Hidden Hitch, Draw Tite and Reese) indicate that the front rail needs to be placed 47 1/2" from the lip or end of the truck bed (before the tailgate). These instructions for the 2003 GMC 2500HD short bed truck are available for your review on on line ( Custom Installation Brackets and Rails ) and are guidelines only. Actual installation is the responsibility of the installer and the owner. Always measure the truck and trailer before installing the hitch to be sure that there is clearance at the cab and at the bumper to allow for turns.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

Thank you for your help

reply by: Pete

Reply:

I would recommend the following parts:
1. 50041-6008 Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Custom Installation Brackets with Rails - Chevy / GMC.
2. 30051 16K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider by Reese.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

You can use an adapter. You can view our selection of adapters that will allow you to tow your fifth wheel trailer with your gooseneck hitch.
If the rails for the gooseneck are above the bed of your truck, you could also purchase a fifth wheel hitch that matches those rails. This would be the more stable and strong set up. You may want to view our selection of fifth wheel hitches.

reply by: Andi

Reply:

I would suggest using adapter CAB-C5G.

reply by: Racheal

Reply:

The minimum height required between the trailer and your truck's bed rails would be 6 inches. 8 inches is the recommended height to ensure that you would not encounter any clearance issues, but as long as you have at least 6 inches between the two you should be fine for towing.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

If your 2007 Nissan Titan has the 5-1/2 foot bed you will not be able to tow using a fifth wheel hitch. If your Titan has a long bed, you would be able to use a fifth wheel with a slider.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

There is not really a maximum clearance for fifth wheel towing. The minimum clearance you would be required to have is at least 6 inches, but 8 inches is the preferred amount.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

I have full 6" at the tailgate but am closer to 5 1/4 at the nose. I still have one more hole to move the Reese up which will give me a solid 6" all the way around. However, I live where there are tunnels and 14' is the max for some. I should also mention I have a second A/C which is mounted at the highest part of my trailer, over the nose. I do a lot of interstate towing and zero camping where there are hills and valleys.

reply by: Wayne

Reply:

How tall is your trailer? If you have enough room to lift it up a bit, I would check to see if your fifth wheel head is set at its highest setting. Adjusting that might give you some more clearance, because you really need to have at least the 6".

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

Thanks, I'll check it out.

reply by: Wayne

Reply:

Fifth wheel hitches are mounted in front of the rear axle of the towing vehicle. In order to find the clearance needed, measure the width of your fifth wheel trailer then divide by two. Compare that measurement to the distance from the back corner of the cab of your truck to the center of the king pin hole on the hitch.
If this difference is not adequate to complete the turn you are attempting, you may want to look into a fifth wheel slider. You can view such an application by entering the year, make and model of your vehicle in the "Custom Fit Fifth Wheel or Gooseneck" on the left of the screen on our fifth wheel page. Sliders usually go in trucks with a short bed, allowing the hitch to slide towards the tailgate, giving more clearance when maneuvering into tight spaces.
We have a fifth wheel hitch that is specifically designed for use with conversion trucks. There are also instructions on this page if you would like to view them.

reply by: Andi

Reply:

If you have the 6-1/2' bed, the offset would be a good idea, but it is not required. The following link will take you to the fifth wheel trailer to gooseneck hitch adapters that we offer.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

Yes, 6 or 8 inches is too much. You need to mound the fifth wheel within 1 to 2 inches in front of the axle. (In front, meaning between the axle and the cab.)

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

As long as you total weight does not exceed the truck's capacity, you should be fine. I would make sure your truck has the tow package with the transmission oil cooler and that your brake controller is in good working order.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

Our installers recommend using a lithium based grease for lubricant.

reply by: Paige

Reply:

Yes, a lubricant can be applied to loosen the jaws. A lithium based grease would probably work best. If that does not help please let us know and we can help you investigate further.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

If your 2004 Dodge Ram has a bed that is 6ft long or less, you will need a slider to ensure that you don't encounter any clearance problems while turning. You must make sure that the hitch is rated to tow both the 6,600lb weight of the trailer plus whatever gear you load on it. As long as that amount is under what the hitch is rated for, you should have no problem towing.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

Since your 2008 Chevrolet Silverado has the short bed, you will need a fifth wheel with a slider. This will ensure that you have no clearance issues while turning. Please let me know what you are planning on towing and I would be glad to make a suggestion for you. The installation kit you will need to install the fifth wheel is 6005.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

The recommended height between your bed rails and the bottom of your fifth wheel trailer's loft is at least 8 inches. Any less and you could encounter clearance issues while turning.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

A fifth wheel hitch with a slider will be a good fit for your truck as long as the truck bed is at least 6' long. If the bed is less than 6', you will not be able to use a fifth wheel hitch with the vehicle because it would collide with your truck cab while turning.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

I am sorry, but you will not be able to use your 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche for fifth wheel towing. You will encounter clearance issues which will result in damage to your vehicle's cab.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

You should use custom install kit 50043-6008 to install the fifth wheel to your 2001 Ford F-250. This kit will offer the easiest installation for you because it is custom for your truck, but there will be some drilling required.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

Normally the hitch itself or the slider will determine the position of the rear rail. Once the first rail is in position nearest the cab (47 1/2" from the end of the truck bed) you will use the hitch or slider like you are going to place it into that rail and then you will see where the second, rear most rail needs to go. The installation instructions for your 5th wheel should list what you specifically need to do

reply by: Heather

Reply:

The socket/plug for the brake controller wiring adapter is no longer present on the 2008 model Chevy/GMC vehicles. There are still active blunt cut wire leads in the under-dash area that can be used to hardwire a brake controller but no quick plug in option is available.

reply by: Bridget

Reply:

You should have no problem pulling a fifth wheel trailer with your 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. If your bed is 6ft long, you will need a fifth wheel with a slider. I recommend fifth wheel hitch 30083, which has an 18,000lb capacity and has a round-tube slider. You will need rail kit 50041-6008 to install the hitch in your Silverado.
You can wire your truck for fifth wheel towing using 31156.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

We offer a custom rail kit for your 2004 Dodge 3500 that requires no drilling to install. Part 50040-6008 can be viewed online. There is a link to the installation instructions so you can see if this installation would be something you would be comfortable doing yourself.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

Yes, fifth wheel hitch 30051 can be installed in a 2006 Silverado 6'6" bed. However, you will need one of the following installation kits.
1. Universal Installation Kit 6005
2. Custom Installation Kit 50041-6008

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

You can install a fifth wheel hitch on your vehicle as long as it is a slider fifth wheel. You should be able to keep the cover as long as you can fully roll it up when towing the trailer. The following link will take you to the installation kit for your vehicle.
The following link will take you to all the slider hitches that we offer.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

The 2007 Classic Body Style is the same install at the 1999-2006. However, the New Body Style just has 4 loose wires located underneath the steering wheel, just to the left.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

You cannot tow a fifth wheel trailer with a 5-1/2' bed. You need to have, at the minimum, a 6' bed.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

I am sorry, but you cannot pull a fifth wheel trailer with anything smaller than a 6' bed.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

There are no 5th wheel hitches designed for the Dodge Dakota. The Quad Cab design makes the bed even shorter; you will not be able to haul a 5th wheel trailer with this truck. To haul a 5th wheel trailer you would need a full sized truck.

reply by: Heather

Reply:

Thanks for the information....it is greatly appreciated!!

reply by: Michael

Reply:

If you provide me with either a part number you've been looking at or the year, make, and model of your vehicle, I will be able to find that information for you. Please let me know and I will be glad to help.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

The 5th wheel trailer that I have is a 1992 cardinal by cobra and the truck that I have is a 2007 dodge 2500hd I have about 6" between the bed rails and the trailer. Is that about where I want to be

reply by: Paul

Reply:

Six inches would be the absolute minimum clearance acceptable while towing with your fifth wheel. It would be better to have eight or more inches to ensure you do not encounter clearance issues when turning. If your fifth wheel head has side-to-side tilt, the chance of your trailer tilting and hitting the bed rails on your truck increases. I recommend adjusting the height on your fifth wheel if that is an option for you.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

If your F-150 is a SuperCrew with a 5-1/2 ft bed, you will not be able to tow using a fifth wheel. If your 2000 Ford F-150 has a 6-1/2 ft bed, you will need to purchase a fifth wheel with a slider. If your truck bed is 8 ft long, you will not need a slider. Here are the available fifth wheel hitches for your 2000 Ford F-150.
You will need to cut or drill through the bed liner depending on the type of rail system and fifth wheel you are planning on installing. You should not need to remove the liner entirely, especially if it is a spray-on style.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

We do have an adapter that will take your gooseneck set up to a 5th wheel. It is part# 2085205.

reply by: Bridget

Reply:

The 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter and the pin box extension aren't really meant to be used in conjunction with each other. A better alternative would be to get a 5th wheel hitch with a slider.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

We do not sell 14K fifth wheel hitches (they have been discontinued). However, if you already have a 14K, it should be fine to tow your trailer. I would just double check your hitches pin capacity. All fifth wheel hitches have a towing capacity and a pin capacity (or tongue/vertical capacity).

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

If you are going to pull a fifth wheel trailer, you will need to have at least a 6.5ft bed, so I would choose the 2007 Titan with the king cab. You will not be able to use a fifth wheel with a 5.5ft truck bed. To install a fifth wheel in your truck bed, you will need part V55000.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

The 5th Wheel rails would be mounted slightly in front of the rear axle in the center of the truck bed. You can view the available rail installation kits and 5th Wheels. There you will find a link for the installation rails and the measurements to find the exact placement in the bed of your truck.

reply by: Bridget

Reply:

We offer fifth wheel hitches for a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 with either a 6ft or 8ft bed.
If you chose a 6ft truck bed, you would require a fifth wheel with a slider so that you would not encounter clearance issues while towing. I recommend part 30083. It has an 18,000lb capacity that would work for your 25-31ft fifth wheel trailer, and 4-way pivot to make hooking up your trailer easier. To install this hitch to your truck, you will need part 50041-6008.
If you chose an 8ft truck bed, a slider would not be required. I recommend part 40847. This hitch installs with a puck system instead of in-bed rails, so you have more use of your truck bed when not using the hitch. It also has a 4-way pivot to make hooking up a trailer easier. To install this hitch to your truck, you will need part 30082. I recommend choosing the 8ft bed if you plan on doing a lot of fifth wheel towing, because it will ensure that you will never have clearance issues.
Here you can view all available fifth wheel hitches for the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

If you are looking for a custom installation kit for a fifth wheel, then yes we do have custom installation kits.
If you have a Reese classic style fifth wheel or if you will be purchasing a Reese classic style fifth wheel trailer hitch, the part number for the custom installation brackets is 50043.
If you also need the rails, you can order the installation brackets and rails together. It would be part number 50043-6008.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

I suggest part 30033 to tow your camper. It has a 20k capacity and a 5k pin weight capacity. The hitch also has vertical adjustment and side to side pivot which makes hooking up to your trailer easier.
If your trailer is heavier, I recommend part 30034 because it has a 22k capacity and a 5.5k pin weight.
You will need a universal hitch rail and installation kit part 6005 to install either one of these hitches to your truck.
Your truck bed is long enough that it will not require a slider to tow. You will have enough clearance when turning, so a normal fifth-wheel will work great for your needs.

reply by: Sarah

Reply:

The slider is definately necessary in a short bed application. Without it, the corner of the trailer would impact the cab when making sharp turns. Hard on both truck and trailer. During highway use, the hitch would be slid all the way forward, placing the hitch in front of the rear axle. The hitch would then be slid rearward for low speed maneuvering and parking.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

There is an exhaust relocation bracket available. This problem typically occurs with gooseneck hitches, so I'd suggest maybe trying to determine where the vibration is occurring, to determine weather or not this particular bracket will help you.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

Goosenecks are more commonly used on construction trailers. On uneven terrain, gooseneck trailers are easier to hook up. Fifth wheel trailers are pretty much always used on recreational trailers. On even ground, fifth wheel trailers are much easier to hook up than gooseneck trailers. Horse trailers can go either way, but gooseneck couplers are more common on horse trailers.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

The Round Tube Slider for the 5th Wheel Hitches is the better option in that it provides a smoother transition compared to the Square Slider. Both, Round and Square, will work with your 15K Pro Series.

reply by: Paige

Reply:

All fifth wheel hitches need to be mounted on or just before the axle; the size and weight involved does not matter. You kind of answered you own question because it also has to do with handling. You need the weight on the front wheels, aside from the engine and cab. The rear axle is the point of balance. If you go too far back, you will loose weight on the front axle. Even an inch would throw weight too far back; loose handling would happen up front.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

You can install a fifth wheel trailer hitch in pretty much any full size truck. If you don't have the truck yet, you might want to consider purchasing the larger bed size to keep cost down. Trucks with the short bed require a slider fifth wheel which can be more expensive.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

First, you'll need the a slider fifth wheel hitch, since you have a short bed. If you decided to go with the Reese classic style fifth wheel hitch, the closest edge of the rail to the cab will be 59-5/8" from you tailgate. As long as your tool box is not blocking where the rail will sit, you can install a fifth wheel.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

I am not so concerned with the installation of the hitch (I have about 61" from the tailgate to the toolbox), as I am with the nose of the trailer interfering with the toolbox during sharp turns. I'm not sure if the nose of the camper would ride over the toolbox or not. I'm sure there are variables based on the specific dimensions of the truck, trailer, hitch, etc. I was just curious if anyone had seen it done.

reply by: Jon

Reply:

That will not be a problem as long as the trailer you're towing rides above the tool box. Since you don't have the trailer yet, the only way to determine that the trailer will clear the toolbox, would be to back up to it when you decide which trailer to buy.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

Thank you.

reply by: Jon

Reply:

From the tailgate of your truck, to the edge of the rail closest to your cab, it will measure 56-3/8". As long as your have that and as long as the king pin rides above the tool box, you should not have any problem.

reply by: Amanda

Reply:

1) 5-6 inches is standard. If you'll consult the installation instructions for the hitch that you are interested in, the specific measurement should be listed.
2) Adjusting the hitch pin will work, you'll want to get that trailer as level as is possible while it is in tow.

reply by: Mike

Reply:

The newer style 5th wheel hitches do offer the 4 way pivot to help eliminate chucking and bucking which causes less torque on the vehicle and the