Is Sliding Hitch Necessary for Towing Older 5th Wheel with 2021 GMC 2500 Short Bed  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Given the fact that your 5th wheel very likely has a squared-off front end (instead of the convex or dished-on corners seen on some newer 5th wheels) you'll want to using a sliding hitch to avoid having the front corners of the 5th wheel strike the back of the cab during turns.

Demco offers the Hijacker Auto Slide in an 18K version as part # DM8550034 or a 21K version as part
# DM8550035. The advantage of the auto sliding hitch is convenience. You won't need to leave the truck cab to release the sliding mechanism of the hitch every time you need to do some low-speed maneuvering. Once the hitch head rotates, it automatically slides rearward and will return forward after the turn. It's a pretty slick system that our customer love. About the only downside to the hitch is the weight. The hitch isn't light, weighing in at around 250 lbs, but a lifting bracket is available as part # DM6100 that would allow you to use a chain hoist to easily install/remove the hitch.

For either hitch mentioned above, you'll also need the # DM6333 adapter that sits in the pucks.

If you'd rather forego the auto sliding hitch, you could use the # BWRVK3775 which is less expensive but still a super-high quality American made product. The 20K capacity # BWRVK3775 B&W Companion will install directly into the in-bed pucks and weighs about 50 lbs less than the Auto Slide.

If you'd also like to install a 7-way trailer connector into the truck bed so you don't have to run the trailer connector wire up over the tailgate, you can install one using part # HM54FR.

I've linked to some demonstration videos that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

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