Clearance Issues With A 5th Wheel Sliding Hitch On A Short Bed Truck

Updated 05/08/2017 | Published 05/06/2017

Question:

Hi- I have a Ford F-150 extended cab short bed. I bought a 5th wheel a few weeks ago and they installed a Reese slider hitch because if allowed for extra clearance when set in the menovering position. Well, today I cut it to back in and the RV hit the cab. Although I was going very slow I still have damage. Im not sure what to do at this point. I have heard that a revolution hitch will solve my problems but another check to write. Can you give me any advise as to what I should do at this point... Im perplexed as what I was sold would be what I needed and as it turns out its far from it. Note: the trailer was not jacked at 90 degrees when it hit... more like 70 degrees and it hit. Thank you!

asked by: Tiffany L

Expert Reply:

I am very sorry to hear about the mishap you have encountered. I do have a few solutions that will allow for 5th wheel towing on a short bed truck however, you will need to consider the use of an auto-sliding hitch or sidewinder king pin. I can assure you that you will not run into this problem again with my recommendations in addition to providing a much more cost effective option than the body damage that will occur from contacting the cab of your truck with the trailer.

A sliding hitch is usually compatible with most standard truck beds aside from the shorter 5-1/2 ft beds. Additionally some trailers are just not very feasible with short bed trucks as they have a very short telescoping pin box.

To combat this problem I recommend the Demco Hijacker Autoslide Hitch part # DM8550040. This 5th wheel hitch features an integrated auto slider allowing for 22.5" inches of additional clearance while turning. Most manual sliding 5th wheel hitches only allow for 10 to 12 inches of turning clearance. This option will prove to be a much easier method for combating clearance issues without the need to enter and exit the vehicle to adjust a hitch with sliding rack.

Another option for you to consider in order to maximize the clearance between the cab and trailer while turning on a short bed truck is a sidewinder king pin. The pin box is specific to your trailer and you will need to determine the correct model number in order to choose a viable option. The model number can usually be found stamped into the pin box on your trailer.

I recommend the 5th Airborne Premium part # 5AB-E1621-16K as it is compatible with a variety of existing trailer king pins and the most common Lippert 1621. It features an air spring design to cushion and absorb shock for a more comfortable tow. Additionally it provides an added 22" of clearance between the cab and trailer.

I have attached a review of the 5th Airborne Premium in addition to our sidewinder help sheet.

expert reply by: Conner L