Does 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 Short Bed Need Slider Hitch To Tow 5th Wheel Trailer?

Published 10/08/2021

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(5319)

$1199.00

B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20K

(5319)

$1699.00

Question:

I have a 2022 GMC sierra 2500 short bed and am wondering if I need to use a sliding hitch or not for towing my 5th wheel trailer. I have the oem puck system option on the truck.

asked by: Jim K

Expert Reply:

It is possible that you can get away with a fixed 5th wheel hitch in your 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 with the OEM puck system, but typically this is only possible when the trailer has a rotating pin box or really tapered nose to allow for more cab-to-trailer clearance.

If your trailer has one of these then a fixed hitch such as the B&W Companion # BWRVK3710 would work perfectly. I really like the B&W hitches due to them being the best on the market, made in America, and being very strong which has made them so popular. If your trailer has a rotating pin box you will need wedge # SWW-06 as well.

If your trailer has a tapered nose I recommend using the below formula to check your clearance:

(A + B) - C = Clearance

A = Distance from center of fifth wheel hitch jaw to truck cab
B = Offset used (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset) This is 0 since a fixed hitch is being used.
C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (to get half)

4" or more of clearance is needed to be able to make a full 90 degree turn without issues.

If your trailer does not have a tapered nose and you get a clearance measurement of less than 4" you will be better off going with a slider hitch, the B&W Companion Slider # BWRVK3775 to avoid any cab-to-trailer clearance issues.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.