How to Determine If Fifth Wheel Trailer has Clearance to Not Hit Cab When Turning
Updated 06/21/2017 | Published 06/20/2017
Question:
what is the safe minimum distance between the back of the truck cab to the center of the hitch jaws when towing a big fifth wheel camper using a 1-ton truck.
asked by: Frank S
Helpful Expert Reply:
That depends largely on the measurements of the trailer nose and whether or not it has an extended pin box. Here is a formula though that you can use to determine if you have clearance.
The formula you are referring to is this:
(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the fifth wheel jaw center to the truck cab
B = Offset used (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset)
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.
You really want a minimum of 4 inches of clearance to be on the safe side.
Generally speaking if you have a long bed truck a stationary fifth wheel hitch will work fine in terms of cab clearance, but if you have a short bed you most likely will need a slider hitch or Sidewinder pin box installed.
I attached a couple help articles for you to check out as well.
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