Can a 5th Wheel Trailer Be Towed with a Slider Hitch in the Maneuvering Position

Updated 07/04/2020 | Published 10/06/2014

Question:

I have this hitch on my 2002 F250 pickup and I would like to tow my trailer in the manuvering position. It would center the trailer just back of center on rear axle and no need to adjust hitch in tight turn situations.Thanks.

asked by: Bob M

Helpful Expert Reply:

You cannot tow the trailer with the slider hitch in the maneuvering position. The trailer should actually be centered directly over the rear axle or a few inches forward of it but not behind it at all. That will cause all sort of issues such as steering and braking problems, it can make the headlights point up, and the capacity behind the axle is lower than directly above it or slightly forward.

What you could do instead which would be much safer is add a Sidewinder to the trailer. A Sidewinder will move the pivot point of the trailer back 22 inches while keeping the hitch in the same place. If used with a slider the hitch most ALWAYS be locked in the tow position.

To determine if there is a Sidewinder that will fit your trailer I will need to know the manufacturer and model number of the pin box.

If the expense of a Sidewinder is not feasible then Reese is coming out with a hitch soon that will automatically slide so that you do not have to manually do it.

expert reply by: Michael H