How Far Back are Fifth Wheel Rails Supposed to Be from the Cab of the 2010 GMC 1500 8 Ft Bed
Updated 03/29/2010 | Published 03/25/2010
Question:
i would like too install my fifth wheel hitch rails on anew 2010 gmc 1500 8ft box what is the distense from the inside of the box back I would think it would be centre of the wheel wells your info would be appreciated thanks
asked by: elmer s
Expert Reply:
You ultimately want the king pin to be centered on over the axle or slightly forward of the axle. You never want the center of the hitch to be behind the rear axle. This can lift the front suspension enough that handling, steering control and braking abilities are reduced. The measurement from the cab-side bed wall to the first bed rail will depend on the rails and fifth wheel used as well as the width of the trailer.
Reese 5th wheel hitches and rails, at minimum, require 52 inches from the back of the cab to center of the hitch or king pin on a full 8 foot bed truck. I have included a link to the instructions for the Reese Universal Fifth Wheel installation kit that should be helpful to you.
Typically, we recommend using a custom fit installation kit that is designed for your specific truck. Part # RP50064-58 is designed to fit your truck and use pre-existing holes in the frame so that you will not have to drill your truck frame and it will take some of the guess work out of measuring. I have included a link to a video of the kit being installed on a 2008 GMC Sierra.
