Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2011 Ford F-250 Super Duty Short Bed

Question:

Which is a better set up for a 2011 F250 short bed a sliding hitch or a extended pin box? I also want to under mount the rails for the hitch.

asked by: Jim C

Expert Reply:

There is a formula you can use to determine which would give you the clearance you need to safely make 90 degree turns. First, you will need to take some measurements. Since you are looking for an underbed mounting kit, you will need the Reese Under-Bed Rail and Installation Kit, # RP30126.

According to the installation instructions, the king pin will be centered in the bed at 46.41 inches from the rear edge of the bed (that should be just about centered over the rear axle).. Measure from that point to the back of the truck cab. Next, add 12 inches for travel of the B&W Companion Slider, # BWRVK3370. This will be measurement A.

Next, measure the width of your 5th wheel trailer overhang and divide by 2 to get half (measurement B). Subtract B for A to get the amount of clearance you will have with the slider. You will need at least 4 inches to safely make 90 degree turns.

To measure for a Sidewinder, you can add 22 to the first measurement instead of 12. The rest of the formula stays the same. When using a Sidewinder, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, you will use a stationary hitch, # BWRVK3300, and not a slider.

Second, Sidewinders are specific to the pin box on the trailer. You will need to know the manufacturer and model number of the pin box to determine if there is a Sidewinder that will fit. You can then use our Sidewinder main page to see if one is available.

In terms of which is better, I would not say that one is better than the other. A Sidewinder allows for most trucks that would normally not be able to tow a 5th wheel trailer the opportunity to do so. But if you can get enough clearance with a slider then that would be the way to go.