5th Wheel Hitch Recommendation for a 1977 Chevrolet C/K Series Stepside Pickup with 6 Foot Bed

Expert Reply:

It is not recommended to install a 5th wheel hitch in a 1977 Chevrolet stepside C/K Series pickup with a 6 foot bed, because the pin box on the trailer will swing into the sides of the bed with a fifth-wheel hitch installed. The bedsides are not far enough apart to allow the pin box to make turns sufficient to navigate tight turns on the road or when parking in tight situations.

Another factor is the vehicle frame. The frame may be different on the stepside models, and we have no information whether and installation kit like part # RP30035, will work on your vehicle or not. If you found that the install kit will work on your vehicle, you might be able to use this kit along with a stationery fifth-wheel hitch and a Reese sidewinder pin box replacement.

With a sidewinder, the pivot point is relocated to the pivot point is located closer to the tailgate and allows the trailer to rotate and the pin box arm remains stationery in the bed of the truck. When using a sidewinder you will want to select a standard, non-sliding, fifth-wheel hitch, like part # RP30047, and you will need to use the Universal Base Rails and Installation Kit, # RP30035, for your 1977 Chevrolet C/K Series stepside pickup, if you determine that the frame is the same as fleetside trucks and you have 48 inches between the bedsides for the rails to sit in the bed of the truck. I linked instructions for this hitch for you to look over.

I added an article that details some information on the Sidewinder pin boxes and a help article that will help you select a Sidewinder pin box if you determine that your truck is compatible with a fifth wheel installation kit.

expert reply by: Bob G