Solution for Small Clearance Between Lowered Tailgate and 5th Wheel Trailer when Hitching Up

Updated 10/25/2017 | Published 10/24/2017

Question:

I have a 2017 F350 LB 4WD DRW truck and a Lippert Chassis under my 40 foot fifth wheel toy box. The trailer came with a king pin that is 14 1/2inch forward of the front mounting holes It is 12 1/2inch wide and this puts the trailer about 4 inches from my tailgate when its down. There is plenty of room once Im hooked up and the tailgate is up, but i have to be perfectly straight when coupling or i will hit the trailer with the tailgate. So i am interested in getting a longer kingpin so i will have more room when hooking up. Can you suggest my options to extend that length?

asked by: Steven W

Expert Reply:

I have a great solution for you.

I actually recommend replacing the tailgate on your Ford F-350 with a 5th Wheel Louvered Tailgate like the Stromberg Carlson # VG-15-4000. This sturdy tailgate is confirmed to fit your truck and features a cutout that will allow you to hitch up to your trailer without needing to lower the tailgate.

I have attached an installation video on this product that you can use for reference.

This will be much easier than replacing the pin box on your trailer. However, if you do decide to replace the pin box instead, you will want to determine the pin box model number on your trailer. This information should be located somewhere on the unit itself, either on a sticker or stamped right into the king pin. If you are able to tell me your pin box model number, I will be happy to see if there is a compatible replacement that will provide a greater extension.

expert reply by: Chris R