Is A Slider Hitch Needed When Towing A 1998 Coachman Catalina With A 2006 Chevy Silverado Short Bed

Question:

I already bought 98 catalina 237 5th wheel.It appears to have pin box extension,do I still need slider hitch or rv5 extension to tow this behind my 06 silverado short bed,crew cab?Any reply appreciated!

asked by: Dirk S

Expert Reply:

On your 2006 Chevrolet Silverado, if you have the 6-1/2 foot short bed you will want to use a slider hitch like the Reese 16K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch with Round Tube Slider, part # RP30075, and the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, part # RP50064-58.

When a short-bed truck (under 8 foot) is used to tow a fifth-wheel trailer, it is recommended that a slider fifth wheel hitch and an extended pin box be used to help compensate for the reduced turning clearance. Even if you have a extended pin box you will still want to use a slider hitch to make sure you will have enough clearance for sharp turns.

The slider hitch will add 10 to 12 inches of travel towards the tailgate which allows the vehicle to make normal turns during low-speed maneuvering and the extended pin box (minimum 13 inches) creates even more space between the truck cab and the trailer.

If your vehicle has a 5-1/2 foot truck bed, you will need to use a standard fixed hitch and installation kit like the Reese 16K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch, # RP30047, and the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, part # RP50064-58, along with a Sidewinder. I am including links to the installation instructions for both items.

A Sidewinder would replace your extended pin box and would be needed on the 5-1/2 foot bed to give you 22 inches of extra clearance to allow enough space between the truck cab and trailer when making 90-degree turns. To choose the correct Sidewinder you will need the brand of pin box and the part number off of the pin box.

I would also recommend the Draw-Tite Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck 90 Degree Wiring Harness, part # 51-97-410. This wiring harness will add a 7-way connector to the bed of your truck.

If you will get the make and part number of your pin box on your fifth wheel, I can recommend a compatible Sidewinder, or you can use the chart on the Sidewinder FAQ page (see link).

expert reply by: Jeff D