Best Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation For 2017 Ford F-350 Short Bed

Updated 12/13/2017 | Published 12/12/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 18,000 lbs

(735)

$1795.00

Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Hitches

(14)

$409.89

Question:

I am looking to purchase a 5th wheel camper with the following specs: UVW- 12,300 Hitch Weight - 2,520 GVWR - 16,470 Cargo Gross - 4,170 Exterior Length Pin to Rear - 40foot 6 Exterior Width - 100inch I am wanting to tow it with a 2017 F-350 short bed with a bed locker tonneau cover that has a flush mount box that the cover is stored in. towards the cab of the truck The storage box does not rise above the bed rails but does take up 9inch into the bed of the truck I want a quiet / smooth tow and dont mind spending a couple extra dollars to achieve that. Let me know what recommendation and send me a link if possible. Thanks for any help!

asked by: AARON S

Expert Reply:

For your short bed 2017 Ford F-350 we have a great fifth wheel hitch option that will provide you with a great towing experience and clear the tonneau cover box as well.

Since you have a short bed you have to use a slider hitch to allow you the needed turning clearance. Since getting out and activating the slider everytime you enter and leave a parking is a hassle (especially in bad weather) an automatic slider like the Demco Hijacker part # DM8550034 is your best option. This slides back automatically as you enter a tight turn giving you the clearance needed and you wouldn't have to worry about the slider at all.

To install this in your truck what you need is the correct rail kit. Which for that we have the custom install rail kit part # DM8552031-71 which is a custom fit for your truck. A custom rail kit installs much quicker and easier than a universal kit so this is the way to go.

expert reply by: Jameson C