Fifth Wheel Hitch and Rail Kit Recommendation for a 2013 Ford F-150 Short Bed

Updated 04/01/2016 | Published 03/30/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Hitches

$531.49

Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with 7-Pole Plug

(896)

$89.74

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 18,000 lbs

(711)

$1795.00

Question:

2013 F150 4x2 Supercab 5.0L V8 Which rail kit do you recommend for my truck? With the short bed, what do I look for in the hookup equipment so that I get max clearance on turns. Thank you

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

I always recommend people go with a custom fit rail kit for their truck as they reduce install time and the amount of vehicle drilling required when compared to a universal kit. For your 2013 Ford F-150 short bed I have a great recommendation.

For rails you would want the Demco custom kit part # DM8552004-71 and then since you have a short bed truck you would need a slider hitch to allow you to make tight turns. The Demco Hijacker part # DM8550034 would be a great choice as it will automatically slide as you turn the truck and trailer. Other hitches require you to get out and activate the slider manually. Check out the review video I attached for more info.

For a 7-way to install in the bed of your truck to make connecting your trailer lights easier you would want the part # 41157. Most 7-ways will be at the rear of the truck near the bumper which doesn't work will with fifth wheel hitches.

expert reply by: Jameson C