How to Determine if Truck is Too Tall to Tow 5th Wheel Trailer
Updated 08/07/2017 | Published 08/04/2017
Question:
hello I am in the market for a 5th wheel, I currently have a bumper pull. I have a lifted chevy 3500HD srw. my question is the top of the bed rails from the ground measure 64inch is this to tall?
asked by: Tony
Expert Reply:
Most 5th wheel trailer hitches and trailer pin boxes are height adjustable, which can help with taller trucks like yours to tow a 5th wheel trailer. It is recommended to have at least 6 inches of clearance from the top of the bed sides to the bottom of the trailer overhang. Whether or not your truck is too tall will depend on the trailer you are looking to tow, as they will all have at least slightly different height dimensions.
I just recommend taking some measurements on the trailers that you are looking at to see how high the overhang will sit above the bed rails on your truck. You can then look through different 5th wheel hitches to find one that will have the necessary height adjustment to provide enough clearance. For example, the Husky 26K Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch # HT31318-31325 can adjust to up to 19-1/4 inches tall.
If you are unable to create enough space between the trailer overhang and bed side rails, you can also raise the height of the trailer by using an over/under conversion kit to move the leaf spring stack to the top of the axle or by installing taller hangers.
I have included an article on 5th wheel trailer hitches that you might also find helpful.
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