Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation for 2016 Chevy Silverado 1500 Short Bed

Question:

hi have a 2016 chevy 1500 double cab truck 5.3 engine, tow package factory trailer brake controller, 6 1/2 foot bed, can it handel towing a 5 th wheel ? what kind 5 th wheel hitch will i need? truck towing rating 9.400 lbs truck gvwr is 7000 lbs ,gawr frt 3850 lbs , gawr 3950 lbs trailer is dry weight 6,830 lbs , gvwr 9,163 lbs, hitch weight 1,027 lbs

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

Yes, your 2016 Chevy Silverado 1500 was rated for fifth wheel towing and as long as you stay under the towing capacity of the (looks like 9,400 lbs based on numbers mentioned) you'd be perfectly fine. Since you have a short bed truck the kind of hitch you'll need is a slider hitch which will slide back to give you the turning clearance you need for sharp turns.

For that my favorite option is the Demco Hijacker part # DM8550034 which actually slides back as you make tight turns to give you the clearance automatically.

To install the hitch you'd then want the custom install kit part # DM8552027-71 which is custom fit for your truck which means it would minimize drilling.

For a 7-way to install in the bed of your truck to make connecting your trailer lights easier you would want the part # 41157. Most 7-ways will be at the rear of the truck near the bumper which doesn't work will with fifth wheel hitches. This kit installs in line with the 7-way at the rear of your truck and gives you a second one to install in the bed.

expert reply by: Jameson C