Can Slider Fifth Wheel Hitch Be Used in Long Bed Truck

Updated 06/02/2020 | Published 07/16/2017

Question:

I hope this isnt a silly question... I have a 21K Demco Hijacker Autoslide hitch that Ive been using and has worked great in a RAM 2500 truck with a 6ft bed. Ive just switched trucks to a RAM 3500 DRW with an 8ft bed. Im assuming theres no issue with using the auto slide in the 8ft bed, other than not really needing the slider feature anymore, but no other issues that you guys might see or be aware of? Id switch to a Demco fixed hitch but I have a large investment in the slider. Thanks for any insight you can offer.

asked by: Ian R

Expert Reply:

A slider hitch isn't needed with an 8 foot bed truck, but it doesn't hurt anything to use one though.

Only downside is that it's going to weigh more than a stationary hitch really.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Paul H.

5/30/2020

Would I remove the side rails that make the hitch slide? Or would I continue to allow it to slide in the 8 Ft bed? My application is going from a 6 3/4 bed ( F350 ) to an 8 Ft bed in an F350 Dually.

Chris R.

6/2/2020

I would just keep the side plates mounted to maintain sliding function on the Hijacker. Even though you don't need the extra cab clearance, there's no harm in having it still slide back during sharp turns.