Available Height Adjustment of Curt # C16521 Q16 5th Wheel Hitch

Question:

Ive got a 2014 Ram 2500 Mega Cab 4x4 without the factory fifth wheel prep package. Ive already got the Curt custom rail kit but Im waiting to install until I have a fifth wheel hitch to ensure proper fitment. I like the Curt 16521 hitch, but I see that the travel range is 17.5 thru 21.5 which seems an awful lot taller than other fifth wheel hitches that all fall in the range of 14-18. Is this accurate for the 16521? My bed is only about 20.5inch deep, so with the 16521 at lowest setting, that would put the hitch plate at barely 3inch below the top of my bed rails. And with a 11inch hitch height to the 5er, that would be a 8inch gap minimum which is good, but id be afraid if there was anymore, the 5er would be at too high an angle. If you could please verify the height of the Curt 16521, that would be great. Otherwise, if you have any other advice or suggestions for a 16k slider fifth wheel hitch, that would also be appreciated.

asked by: Jake Z

Expert Reply:

The Curt # C16521 5th wheel hitch you mentioned is indeed height adjustable from 17-1/2 to 21-1/2 inches in height. Some of the bed sides on todays trucks are pretty tall (like the Ford F Series), so the hitch heights needed to increase as well.

To determine the necessary hitch height so your 5th wheel tows level, jack the 5th wheel so it's level. Measure from the bottom of the skid plate to the ground (not the king pin). Take the bed height above the ground and add the hitch height to that figure. You'll want the two heights as close as possible, keeping in mind that you'll want at least 6 inches of clearance between the top of the bed sides and the underside of the trailer loft.

Keep in mind that many fifth wheel pin boxes are height adjustable, as well.

expert reply by: Mike L