How Much Clearance Do I Need Above the Bed When Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer?

Updated 09/26/2025 | Published 04/22/2025

Question:

I have a 2024 gmc 2500 and just bought a new Montana 295 RL. Trailer seems to a little higher than my old fifth wheel camper. Question is I have lowered the Companion hitch to the lowest setting and now have 8 inches of bed clearance. I have one more set of holes left on the pin box that I could raise to but would put the bed clearance close to 5 inches versus 8 inches. The trailer sits about 2.5 inches higher in the front versus the rear. Do you feel 5 inches is enough bed clearance or stick to the 8 inches as it is now. I have air bags on the truck on the rear and usually run 35-40’pounds of air. Thanks

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

Hey Mike welcome back! 5" of clearance will be just fine so long as you're not off-roading. They recommend having 4" - 6" of clearance so if going up to the next set of holes gets you to level and you still have 5" clearance that's what you should do.

If you have any additional questions go ahead and throw them into the comment box below.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Jerred H.

9/26/2025

Hey Mike, did you decide to adjust the pin box to achieve a more level setup with your Montana? I'm curious to know how it worked out for you, as it could help others looking to optimize their clearance.

Mike

9/26/2025

@JerredH. Yes I did adjust the hitch and the pin box and I am at about 5 inches of clearance. All good tows great. Thanks for the advice and follow up. I am running a front level kit on the truck as well as 36-1250-20 nitto ridge grapplers. Air bags really are a big help also. Thanks again