Will You Need To Lower The Tailgate With A Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch On A Ram Short Bed?

Updated 03/20/2026 | Published 03/16/2026

Question:

Have a 2019 Ram with the 6’5” bed. Looking at the Companion 20K sliding 5th wheel hitch. I have the Mor-ryde pin box on my 2026 Adventure Sport Trak. My question is , Do I have to lower the tailgate when sliding hitch is extended?

asked by: Jerry C

Expert Reply:

Hey Jerry, thanks for reaching out. The short answer is yes, probably but it really depends on your exact setup. When you slide the Companion back, you gain cab clearance but lose space at the tailgate, and with a MorRyde pin box being a bit bulkier, that’s where things can get tight. Some combos clear fine, others get really close, and some will make contact if the tailgate is up, especially during sharp turns or backing.

There’s no way to give you a firm yes or no without seeing your truck and trailer hooked up and measuring it. Every setup sits a little different, so you’ll need to hook up, slide the hitch back, and physically check that clearance yourself. That’s the only way to know for sure whether you’re good with the tailgate up or if you’ll want to drop it when maneuvering.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Paul F.

3/19/2026

For my 2024 Ram short box and B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider for Ram Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20K, I have plenty of clearance with the tailgate up. I did physically check clearances by sliding the hitch aft and slowly jack-knifing the trailer to understand where my limits are. That would be my suggestion for you. I think doing that up front is way better than when you are trying to wiggle into a tight spot. Hope that helps!

Jesse M.

3/19/2026

@PaulF Hey Paul, thanks for sharing! That kind of real-world feedback is extremely helpful!

Rick

3/19/2026

I would always lower just to check clearance the first time. I do not have the module either but every set up is different. Been very happy with the slider hitch haven't actually had to use it yet but glad to have just in case.

Jesse M.

3/20/2026

@Rick Hey Rick! Yep always best to check first just to be safe. Thanks for sharing!

Army H.

3/19/2026

I own 2024 RAM 2500 short bed with B&W(?) Fifth wheel hitch, 20K pound version with slider. I lower tailgate every time. No real choice, not a big deal. Only weird thing I learned is if you have rear airbag suspension you better put it in jack/stationary mode or it auto adjusts which could be problem. But as for tailgate, gotta lower it to hitch or unhitch.