How to Determine Correct Position of 5th Wheel Base Rails
Updated 10/03/2017 | Published 10/02/2017
Question:
Where is the correct position for the rails the bed is 68 and 3eights inches long
asked by: Clayton S
Expert Reply:
5th wheel base rails will install in slightly different locations in the truck bed based on the specifics of the truck, including cab style and bed length. In general the rails will be placed so that the center of the hitch's jaws (that grip the trailer king pin) will be over or slightly forward of the center of the rear axle. The rear edge of the rear rail is used as the reference to position the hitch.
Reese Universal Base Rail Kit # RP30035 includes instructions that cover all pickups. For instance, if you have a 2011 or newer GM/Chevy 2500HD with a 6-foot bed the rear edge of the rear rail should be 25-1/4-inches from the edge of the bed. Please refer to page 4 of the linked instructions.
