Use of Fixed-Type 5th Wheel Hitch on Short-Bed Truck

Question:

I own a 2015 Ford F-350 short bed Diesel truck. My new trailer requires a larger capacity hitch. Im thinking of going with the Curt, C16130 without the slide rails. My last hitch had slide rails, and with the tapered cap on the newer trailers I never needed to slide the hitch for clearance. Occasionally I would slide it back just for the ease of turning tighter while backing. If I go without the slide the hitch would be a lot lighter for removal. Do you see a reason to go with the slide

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

Usually a 2015 F-350 short-bed will require a sliding 5th wheel hitch for adequate turning clearance, but as you noted, some newer trailers have a tapered nose that makes tight turns possible without one. If you were to install a fixed hitch like the 20K-rated Curt Q20 # C16130 you'd of course be fine with this specific trailer and this is fine so as long as you have no intentions of changing trailers any time soon.

But if you want the best compatibility in case of a change of trailers then use the Curt slider # C16541, also rated for 20K.

expert reply by: Adam R