How To Raise A 5th Wheel Trailer With Torsion Axles To Get More Bedrail Clearance

Updated 01/27/2023 | Published 01/26/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(788)

$92.65

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

(5115)

$1199.00

Torflex Lift Kit - Tandem Axle - 2-5/8" Lift

(759)

$302.98

Torflex Lift Kit - Tandem Axle - 2-7/8" Lift

(759)

$258.33

Torflex Lift Kit - Tandem Axle - 3-1/8" Lift

(759)

$277.94

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Standard Duty - 4" Lift - 5 Bolt Flange - 5,200 lbs

(126)

$1257.36

Question:

How do I raise a 5th wheel trailer with torsion axles? With my trailer level I have less than an inch of clearance on my new truck. All the new trucks are taller than my 2004 gmc 2500hd that I had 6 inches of clearance on. I don’t have a hitch yet. I’m looking at the companion hitch for GM trucks with the puck system. My trailer has a sidewinder pin box on it.

asked by: Mike N

Expert Reply:

There are a few lift kits available, but they are all for very specific Torflex model torsion axles so you'll first need to verify what you have on the trailer.

#10 Torflex axles with 2,300 to 4,000-lb capacities - Torflex Lift Kit - 2-5/8" Lift # K71-707-02
#11 Torflex axles with 4,100-6,000-lb capacities - Torflex Lift Kit - 2-7/8" Lift # K71-724-02
#12 Torflex axles with 5,500-7,000-lb capacities - Torflex Lift Kit - 3-1/8" Lift # K71-725-02

If you don't have one of these specific models then the only other option would be to replace the torsion axles with a Timbren Axle-Less Suspension, like # TASR5200S03, that have a built-in lift. You'll obviously want to find the correct weight capacity as well so if you could give me a bit more info on the trailer and axles I could find the correct replacement if you have to go this route.

As for the 5th wheel hitch, you're definitely on the right track with the Companion. For a 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 with the in-bed puck system you'll need part # BWRVK3710. To prevent the king pin from rotating in the head of the hitch youll also want to pick up the Wedge Kit for B&W Fifth Wheels # SWW-06.