How to Safely Obtain Maximum Clearance From Truck Bed Rails to Fifth Wheel Trailer Overhang
Updated 04/22/2021 | Published 04/20/2021
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Question:
With my truck and fifth wheel trailer sitting on level ground what should the distance between the top of the tail gate and trailer be?
asked by: George F
Helpful Expert Reply:
The minimum distance from the top of your truck rails to the bottom of your fifth wheel trailer overhang should be about 5 or 6 inches.
The goal is, when fully loaded, for your truck and trailer to sit level on level ground AND have the maximum clearance available over the truck rails. If you accomplish this by adjusting the hitch in such a way that the trailer nose goes up and puts the trailer out of level, then you will be overloading the trailer rear axle and rear tires.
If you can't find a suitable adjustment to give you a level ride and sufficient clearance, then you need to look at a different pin box or fifth wheel hitch. You should consider the Reese # RP30890 whose fifth wheel hitch can be adjusted 14" to 20" over the truck bed.
Another option may be raising the trailer suspension.
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