Where to Install Fifth Wheel Hitch Rails on 2004 Ford F-250 with Short Bed

Question:

I have a 2004 Ford F-250 with a 7 foot bed how far from the tailgate do i put the first rail, or what is the center of the king pin? Thanks for your help!

asked by: Bill

Expert Reply:

On your 2004 Ford F-250 the dimension from the rear edge of the truck bed forward to the rear edge of the front rail will be 54-3/16 inches then you will measure from the front rail to locate the rear rail. The dimensions from the front edge of the truck bed to the center of the hitch on a 8 foot bed is 52- 5/16 inches and on a 6 foot bed is 36-1/8 inches. After mounting the rails to the truck bed do not fully tighten until after you have trial fit the hitch to make sure everything fits correctly.

On the 2004 Ford F-250 with the short bed you would use the Draw-Tite Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Custom Installation Kit with Brackets and Rails - Ford Super Duty, # RP50082-58, I am sending you a link to the installation instructions that will show what dimensions to use to locate the kit to your vehicle.

On a 2004 Ford F-250 with a short bed I recommend a fifth-wheel trailer hitch with a slider to provide turning clearance and prevent damage to truck and trailer in tight places at low speeds.

Depending on which capacity you would need we have a the Curt A20 5th Wheel Hitch with Slider, # C16541.

expert reply by: Jeff D