Determining Pin Weight for 8k Trailer and Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation for 2014 Ford F-150  

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Helpful Expert Reply:

There is not an easy way to verify the tongue weight of a fifth wheel trailer if you do not already have the trailer. The best way to find the tongue weight of your fifth wheel trailer is to use a commercial scale like those at truck stops or at material supply centers. First you should weigh your tow vehicle without the trailer connected. Next, connect your trailer to your tow vehicle and drive it on the scale. The difference between the two weights is the tongue weight.

Since you do not have the trailer yet, you will want to do some calculating. A general rule is that the tongue weight of a fifth wheel trailer is typically about 20 percent of the gross trailer weight. You will also want to know the approximate weight of everything that you plan to load into your trailer before calculating the estimated tongue weight to ensure you are getting the tongue weight of the trailer when it will be at its heaviest weight.

If your trailer is right at 8,000 lbs that means the pin weight should be right at 1,600 lbs. But that just an approximation.

For your 2014 Ford F-150 with a 5-1/2 foot bed the only sliding hitch solution we are going to have is the Demco Hijacker Auto Slide part # DM8550041 as it is the only one capable of sliding far enough to allow your truck turning clearance. It can slide 22-1/2 inches.

For a rail kit you will want to go with the Demco kit part # DM8551001 which is a custom fit.

expert reply by: Jameson C

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