Recommended Sidewinder Pin Box or Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch for 2015 Ram 1500 with 5-1/2 Foot Bed

Published 12/19/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 13,000 lbs

(740)

$2145.00

Replacement Base Legs for Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - 16K, 18K & 20K

(50)

$113.29

Question:

RP30727 stationary legs will these legs also fit my installed Railing?

asked by: Walter A

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2015 Ram 1500 with the short 5-1/2 foot bed, the ProSeries 16K slider as you stated will not allow the turning clearance you need. I recommend using a Sidewinder pin box and a fixed hitch for your application.

So I recommend starting with using your 16K hitch on the Replacement Base Legs for Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30727 which are a confirmed fit. Then use the Sidewinder Wedge Kit for Pro Series 16K # 30850.

Your pin box looks like a 1621, and if that is what is printed on your pin box, then you will use the Sidewinder 5th Wheel King Pin with Rotating Turret - 16,000 lbs # RP34FR or the air ride option # RP61422. A Sidewinder will move the rotation point of your trailer back 22 inches to give you the additional clearance you need. If you are not sure of your pin box, to confirm the correct Sidewinder, I've attached some articles to assist. I've even attached a measurement guide to determine fit if all else fails.

An alternative option that doesn't require changing your fixed pin box is to use the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider # DM8550040. This automatic sliding hitch is rated for max towing capacity of 13,000 lbs and has a travel of 22-1/2 inches. This is the only sliding hitch compatible with a fixed pin box for your short bed truck.

With either option, I recommend using the Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with 7-Pole Plug # 41157 to add a simple connection to the bed of your truck for easy access. I've attached a photo and video to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S