Recommended Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for a Short Bed Truck w/ Base Rails

Updated 06/29/2017 | Published 06/28/2017

Question:

Hi there I just bought a 2005 F250 short bed with horizontal rails on the back from a previous version hitch. I need a hitch to tow a 2015 Open Ranger 367BHS fifth wheel with a GVWR of 14,000. What would you recommend? Really appreciate any help you can offer. Thanks

asked by: Michael S

Helpful Expert Reply:

The rails in your 2005 Ford F-250 with 6-3/4 foot bed are standard rails compatible with most hitches. Because you have a short bed, you will need a sliding hitch. There are a few options for you, but I'll give you a recommendation for an auto-slide and a manual sliding hitch.

The best option is to use the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 18,000 lbs item # DM8550034. This hitch automatically senses your turning and adjusts for the clearance needed. There is no need to get out of the cab of your truck to adjust the hitch for turns which is an excellent feature.

This hitch has 14 inches for travel front to back. This makes it easy to maneuver around gas stations and pull into your spot at the campground.

The Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ R16 Slider - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs item # C16521 is a great option for a manual slider. This round tube design will give you smooth sliding and the dual jaw system will secure the king pin for minimal jarring and chucking. This system has 12 inches of travel front to back with two positions that lock; one for towing and one for turning.

With either hitch you may want to add a second 7-way to the bed of your truck. For this I recommend the Bargman 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Plug - 9' Long # 50-97-410.

expert reply by: Jason S