Is a Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Necessary for Towing 5th Wheel - 2015 Ram 2500 w/ OEM Tow Prep Package

Question:

I have a 2015 2500 4wd diesel short bed 4 door cab with the factory stuff so I can install a 5th wheel hitch. will i need a slider hitch to eliminate damage during sharp cornering

asked by: John W

Expert Reply:

For a truck with a 6-1/2 foot bed, there are two ways to gain extra clearance between the front of the fifth wheel and the back of the truck cab. You could use a sliding fifth wheel hitch, like the Curt Q24 # C16546 sliding hitch along with the # C16022 adapter. This solution would provide 12 inches of additional clearance, which could be enough for a 90 degree turn if your fifth wheel is no more than 88 inches wide, which is pretty narrow.

The better option that would provide a greater turning radius that would offer almost twice the clearance offered by a slider would be a stationary hitch like the B & W Companion # BWRVK3600 and the Reese Sidewinder. The Sidewinder replaces the pin box on the fifth wheel, and relocates the pivot point from the hitch to the spot where the Sidewinder bolts to the fifth wheel, which allows 90 degree turns in many cases.

The Sidewinder you need will depend on the manufacturer and the part number of the pin box currently on your fifth wheel. The Sidewinder FAQ article will show available Sidewinder models, and which OEM pin boxes they replace.

expert reply by: Mike L