5th Wheel Towing with 2011 Ford F-150 with 5-1/2 Bed

Question:

I have an 8foot wide fifth wheel and am thinking about buying a 2011 F-150 with a 5 1/2foot bed. I saw an answer to a previous question saying that it can be done with some adapters or some such thing. Im assuming that I need a Sidewinder SW16K. Can you tell me what else I need if anything?

asked by: Tom

Helpful Expert Reply:

Towing a 5th wheel trailer with anything less than a full-size-bed truck will require extra care and some additional equipment. For a 2011 F-150 with a 5-1/2-foot bed you will indeed need at least need a Sidewinder replacement pin box along with a fixed (non-sliding) 5th wheel hitch. Honestly, no 5-1/2-foot bed truck is a good choice for 5th wheel towing and I suggest you use a different one. You will also want to refer to the linked article on hitch/Sidewinder compatibility.

Sidewinders are selected based on the original pin box maker and part number, both of which should be indicated on a sticker on the side of the pin box. With that information you can use the linked article to match your existing pin box to one of the compatible Sidewinders. The article includes a table that will show you the Sidewinder options for your trailer.

For example, if you have a Lippert 1116 pin box you can replace it with 5th Airborne Premium 5th Wheel Air Ride King Pin # RP61412. This Sidewinder includes a fully-enclosed custom-tuned air spring to reduce chucking and vertical shock. A Sidewinder gives you an additional 22-inches of turning clearance compared to standard pin boxes.

You'll also need a wiring harness in the truck bed for connection to the trailer. You can use Pollak # PK11893-11932 which plugs in to your existing wiring. I have linked an install video for reference.

expert reply by: Adam R