Sidewinder Needed for Towing 5th Wheel with 2006 Ford F150 with 5-1/2 Foot Bed
Question:
I have 2006 f150 crew cab short bed...an i want to use my 5th wheel in it to pull my travel trailer...its a slider valley 16k hitch..my trailer is a small version an way 1800 pounds...width of trailer is about 7-8 ft wide..please respond back thanks..
asked by: Bradley N
Expert Reply:
Although the Reese 5th wheel install kit you mention is the correct kit for your F150, using a sliding hitch in a 5-1/2 foot bed will not provide enough clearance to negotiate turns without the front of the 5th wheel striking the rear of the truck cab and causing damage to the cab or the trailer.
You will need to use a Reese Sidewinder replacement pin box with your sliding hitch locked into the fully forward position. The Sidewinder will move the pivot point between the hitch and the 5th wheel 22 inches rearward, allowing more turning clearance. The slider will need to remain in the forward position, or too much of the 5th wheel pin weight will be carried to the rear of the truck axle, which can lighten the front end of the truck to the point where steering and braking response would be adversely effected.
The model of Sidewinder you need will depend on the manufacturer and model number of your existing pin box. I will link you to our Sidewinder FAQ page that shows the available Sidewinder models and a listing of the various models of pin boxes it will replace.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit w/ Base Rails for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Custom
- Above the Bed
- Reese
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