Where Does Fifth Wheel Hitch Need to Install in Truck Bed

Updated 02/17/2021 | Published 02/15/2021

Question:

I have a quick question about mounting above bed fifth wheel rails. Do rails mount in different spots depending on a sliding fifth wheel hitch versus a stationary hitch? Or are sliders just set up for standard bed rail installation?

asked by: Lonnie M

Expert Reply:

Fifth wheel rails are positioned in the bed of truck regardless of bed length to allow the fifth wheel hitch jaw center to be right above the rear axle center. For a slider hitch setup this would put the king pin of the trailer right above the rear axle when in the towing position (forward) and then when in the parking lot position the king pin would slide back around 12 inches or so from the rear axle center.

The reason for this is to carry the pin weight of the trailer in the best position of the bed that balances carrying the weight with the truck's rear suspension and also turning clearance. Having the pin weight forward of the rear axle would work well too but would cause turning clearance. Having the pin weight behind the rear axle would give great turning clearance but not enough weight would be on the front axle which would make braking and handling dangerous.

expert reply by: Jameson C