When is a Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Required

Updated 12/13/2016 | Published 12/12/2016

Question:

I now have a 15,000 LB. pro series 5th wheel hitch in my GMC 2500 diesel. I recently went to a bigger camper, still within weight range, but considering a slider, and maybe a bit heavier hitch. I am a little concerned about a slider, because I never had one and my brother had a problem with one releasing while traveling on I-95 last spring. As soon as he got to his next stop, it was replaced by a non-slider. Iam thinking about a 18,000 LB. BandW Patriot slider. What do you think? Is the slider safe?

asked by: Greg W

Helpful Expert Reply:

Sliding 5th wheel hitches are required for making sharp low-speed turns when towing a 5th wheel trailer with a short bed truck. If you are towing with an 8-foot bed pickup you do not need a slider hitch. We have NOT heard of any brand or model of 5th wheel hitch having an issue with its slider mechanism spontaneously releasing. This certainly could happen if the locking mechanism was damaged, not engaged properly or simply worn, but again we have not heard of any chronic problem of this nature with anyone's hitches.

You certainly can gain some benefits by replacing your Pro Series hitch with one that offers enhanced features, or even just a higher capacity. The B&W 5th wheel hitches are excellent USA-made products that offer a lot of value and can potentially give you a nicer towing experience.

Please let me know the model year of your GMC Sierra 2500 diesel and it's bed length, and the GVWR of your trailer, and I will be glad to recommend upgraded hitch options.

expert reply by: Adam R