Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch for a 5-3/4 Foot Bed 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500
Updated 03/26/2023 | Published 03/25/2023
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Question:
i have a 2021 chevy silverado 1500 with a 5.5 foot bed. can i install a 5th wheel hitch on it?
asked by: Joseph
Helpful Expert Reply:
Yes, you can install a 5th wheel hitch in the 5-3/4' bed of your 2021 Silverado 1500. However, because of the super short length of your bed you are going to be limited to two options that I have listed below.
Option 1 is to use the Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider item # DM8550040. This hitch will automatically allow your 5th wheels king pin to move backwards towards your tailgate when you are backing and making turns. This has the most travel amongst all sliding hitches at 22-1/2" and is the only sliding hitch that will work with a 5-3/4' bed.
Option 2 is to use a fixed hitch like the Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch item # RP30928 but your 5th wheel trailer must have a rotating pin box. Not all trailer's are compatible with rotating pin boxes which is why this is the second option. A rotating pin box moves the pivot point above your Silverado's bedsides so when you need to turn the motion is there not at the 5th wheel hitch.
Regardless of which option you choose you will need the Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit item # DM8552034-71. This custom fit kit installs in pre-existing holes in your Silverado's frame. It provides you with a set of industry standard rails that are compatible with most 5th wheel hitches available.
Without knowing your 5th wheel trailer's set up, I recommend going with option one because it requires the least amount of parts. The Demco Autoslider is one of the top of the line hitches you will be able to use for many years no matter what truck you own.
To make towing with a 5th wheel easier I recommend adding the Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector - 10' Long item # C56000. This harness puts a 7-way connector in the bed of your truck and allows you to keep the one on your bumper. This makes hooking up to your 5th wheel trailer easier and more convenient.
I have linked some installation videos below. Feel free to email me directly with any questions you may have.
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