Auto Slider Fifth Wheel Hitch or Sidewinder Recommendation for a 2010 Ford F-250 Short Bed

Question:

2010 ford Superduty, auto.3.55 rear,diesel,4door, short bed.4x4,3/4 ton. Looking at new Alpine 3900RE trailer. weight 12870 dry.Would like opinion on how to tow this.Sidewinder and regular 5th. or auto slider?Nothing in truck,probably have dealer do all the work, just dont know yet.

asked by: Rick D

Helpful Expert Reply:

For the best fifth wheel towing setup for a short bed truck I would recommend you go with a Sidewinder and a stationary hitch. The auto-slider hitches are great options, but the edge goes to the Sidewinders since they actually help the trailer track better behind the truck when turning and backing up.

You will need to remove the pin box of the trailer and replace it with a Sidewinder pin box. Sidewinders are pin box specific so you will first need to know what pin box you have now in order to pick out the correct one.

There should be a sticker or a stamping on the OEM pin box of the trailer that will list the pin box number that is on the trailer.

Once you figure out which pin box you have you can check the FAQ I attached that has a chart that shows the correct Sidewinder to get based on which pin box you have.

The Reese Select Plus part # RP30081 would then be an excellent option since this hitch has a great jaw system that wraps around the king pin to provide excellent king pin contact.

For a fifth wheel rail kit the part # RP50082-58 would be your best option as this is a custom fit option that will minimize drilling and install time.

expert reply by: Jameson C