Does the Reese Square Tube Slider for 20K 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches Slide Automatically or Manually

Updated 08/21/2012 | Published 08/18/2012

Question:

I have hit the cab twice on my 2007 Dodge shortbed. I bought a heavier hitch when I bought this 34foot trailer Reese 20K series. I assume this connects to the rails I have and somehow the hitch I have fits into this. However, is this automatic or do I have to get out before I turn and pull a lever? I did not hear or feel anything both times I hit my cab and I want to make sure I do not do it again. I was lucky and did not break out the back glass, but I am sure sooner or later it could happen. I am also only 52inch and it is a chore to reach handles in the bed of the truck. My local dealer wants me to buy from him and just get an automatic hitch that will move when it needs to. It is much more expensive than this solution.

asked by: Brenda K

Expert Reply:

On short bed trucks you would need to use a slider 5th wheel hitch. The square tube slider you have referenced, # RP30048, is designed to 16K or 20K Reese 5th wheel hitches and the head and crossmember will bolt to it. The bottom of the slider does fit into the above bed rails just like the legs of a fixed hitch. The slider will provide 10 inches of travel which will lessen the chance of hitting the cab of the truck with the trailer when taking tight turns.

You will have to get out of the truck and adjust the lever on the slider, as indicated in the instructions I have linked, to allow it to slide back. If reaching into the bed from the side of the truck is difficult, I do have a solution you may like.

You can install the Bestop TrekStep, # B7540715, on your 2007 Dodge Ram to make it easier to get to the handle in the truck bed. You just use your foot to release or retract the spring-loaded step. A lot of vehicle manufacturers are making truck beds that are taller than they have been in the past and this step is a great solution for reaching into the bed with ease.

expert reply by: Michael H