Towing Clearance Between 5th Wheel Trailer and the Back of a 1998 Ford F-250 Short Bed

Updated 06/12/2014 | Published 06/11/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Convert-A-Ball Cushioned 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Adapter - 12" to 16" Tall - 20,000 lbs

(996)

$565.45

Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter w/8" Offset for Short-Bed Trucks

(227)

$614.52

Question:

I have a 1999 ford f250 short bed, it measures 6 ft long and 67 inches wide. I want to be sure there is enough turning room with the 5th wheel converted to gooseneck. the trailer has 67 inches from the front of it to the center of the king pin

asked by: Tammy

Expert Reply:

I have included a picture that should help. When the trailer is coupled to the truck there should be 16 to 24 inches between the bumper of the truck and the trailer. If you are at the lower end of the range or just want peace of mind that clearance will not be an issue at the back of the truck I recommend an adapter with an offset, # AM3139, which has 8 inches of offset.

An offset adapter like the Ranch Hitch listed above will provide more clearance between the truck bumper and the trailer but not between the truck cab and trailer overhang.

expert reply by: Michael H