Can a 5th Wheel Hitch Be Used in a 2004-2009 F-150 With a 5-1/2 Foot Short Bed

Expert Reply:

Yes, a Fifth Wheel Hitch can be installed on a 2004-2009 Ford F-150 with a 5-1/2 foot bed. You will need short bed bracket kit, part # RP58426, coupled with rails, part # RP58058 and rail bolt kit, part # RP58430. This will provide the base for your setup. You will also need a fixed fifth wheel hitch like part # RP30047. To provide clerance, a Sidewinder will be needed.

A Sidewinder with rotating turret or a 5th Airborne with Sidewinder Rotating turret, air ride coupler, will also be needed to have clearance for turning. The 5th Airborne air ride coupler is a premium pin box coupler that will provide a much more comfortable towing experience, especially with the shorter bed pickup.

When selecting a Sidewinder you will need to know the pin box manufacturer and model on your trailer and then you will need to use the formula at the bottom of the Sidewinder page to measure so you are sure that you will have clearance for maneuvering.

expert reply by: Bob G