5th Wheel Trailer Hitch and Installation Kit Recommendation for a 2007 Toyota Tundra Crewmax

Updated 02/15/2011 | Published 02/14/2011

Question:

I have a 2007 Toyota Tundra Crewmax 5.5 bed. I would like to pull a 5th wheel and I did not want to spent the big bucks on a pullrite. Could I go with the Reese Sidewinder for the trailer and a Reese slider 5th wheel hitch for the truck. I was thinking slider because I would be able to do a 90 degree no prob. or have you experience with this model truck. Please advise. Thank you in advance.

asked by: Doug B

Expert Reply:

The first important thing to mention is that if using a Sidewinder, you would use a stationary hitch and not a slider. A slider could essentially be used if it remained locked in the towing position at all times, but then you just end up with a stationary hitch. The reason a sidewinder and slider cannot be used together is because the amount of stress on the trailer, hitch, and truck would be too great.

You can certainly use the Reese 16k 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, # RP30047. You would need installation kit # RP30035-309. You would then need a Sidewinder that is compatible with the pin box on your trailer. Find the pin box manufacturer and model number to determine if there is a sidewinder that will fit using our pin box to sidewinder matrix in the link I have included. The matrix is near the bottom of the page.

To determine if a sidewinder will offer enough clearance to make 90 degree turns, you will need to take some measurements. First, measure from the center of the hitch jaws (it will be 3-1/2 inches forward of the rear axle center line on your 2007 Toyota Tundra) to the back of the truck cab (measurement A). Next, add 22 inches to that measurement (this is the extension of the sidewinder).

Then, you will need to measure the width of the trailer and divide by 2 to get half. This is measurement B. Take A, plus 22, and then subtract B. The result will give you the amount of clearance you will have. You will need at least 4 inches of clearance to safely make 90 degree turns.

expert reply by: Michael H