Curt X5 and Fifth Wheel Slider Hitch Recommendation for a 2013 GMC Sierra with B and W Turnover

Question:

I have a 2013 gmc shortbed with a bandw turn over gooseneck ball. Will the 16310 fit my truck and my 25k airsafe 5th wheel hitch? My trailer is under 17k loaded, my hitch just happens to be a 25k. I understand the 16310 is only rated for 20k. So I need to know if the rails on the 16310 will fit my airsafe and if it will fit in my shortbed truck.This is my first 5th wheel so Im not sure where the 5th wheel needs to be in relationships with the cab of the truck. Thank you for your help.

asked by: Scott F

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Curt X5 Fifth Wheel Adapter # 16310 will fit the B and W Turnover Ball hitch you have in your 2013 GMC Sierra short bed. Since your trailer loaded only weighs 17k I have a solution that would work for you.

With the X5 adapter in the bed of your truck you will essentially have a set of universal fifth wheel rails installed. For a slider hitch with enough capacity that is compatible and would work very well I would recommend the Reese 20 Hitch part # RP30083. This is a great hitch that has a great jaw design that will minimize noise while towing and has a round tube slider which tends to perform better than square tube sliders. Since you have a short bed truck you will need a slider hitch to give you the needed clearance to make tight turns.

The hitch will need to get slid back while making tight turns so that the trailer doesn't hit the cab of your truck, and then once you get out of the parking lot you will need to slide the hitch forward so that the pin weight of the trailer is above the rear axle. It's unsafe to drive at highway speeds with the hitch slid back. This will unweigh the front axle of the truck which will negatively affect braking and steering ability in emergency situations.

Check out the review videos I attached for more info.

expert reply by: Jameson C