Correct CURT Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Placement in a 2004 GMC Sierra 3500 Long Bed

Updated 10/10/2011 | Published 10/08/2011

Question:

I installed a curt e5 hitch on my 2004 gmc 3500 long box. I installed the rail closes to the back of the truck at 30 inches from the back per instructions but have read different measurement on internet. is this 30 inches correct the middle of the hitch is 56 inches from the cab.

asked by: Stan

Expert Reply:

I looked over the installation instructions for the CURT E5 5th Wheel and Installation Kit, # C16116, and for a 2004 GMC Sierra long box, 30 inches from the edge of the bed to the back edge of the rear rail is correct. This should put the center of the hitch jaws centered over the rear axle.

You have installed the hitch correctly if you have followed the included instructions. Following an alternate installation method will void the warranty. Having the center of the hitch centered overall the rear axle (or within a few inches on some trucks) is important because that is where the most support is for carrying weight.

expert reply by: Michael H