Towing Fifth Wheel Trailer Level With Truck That Has Lift Kit  

Question:

Expert Reply:

It is always a good idea to tow a trailer as level as possible. The best way to determine what height fifth wheel hitch you need is to take a couple measurements. With a lift kit on your F-350 it can make hauling a fifth wheel trailer level more difficult to accomplish.

You want to park the trailer and truck on level ground. Measure the distance from the floor of the truck bed to the ground and then measure the distance from the bottom of the pin box skid plate to the ground. The difference between these two measurements is the height or vertical adjustment you need for your fifth wheel hitch and trailer.

You can set your fifth wheel hitch to the lowest height setting but many times you lose the slider function when doing so. Next, you can see if there is any way to mount the pin box using the highest holes on the pin box 'wings'. This would bring the nose of the trailer down when attached to the fifth wheel.

You may be able to find a short pin box to replace the one you have on your trailer. There should be a plate or stickers that have the pin box make and model numbers. If you want to send me the make and model numbers of your pin box I can see if we have a shorter replacement.

Also, you said you have a Valley slider hitch. If you want to let me know the model of the hitch I may be able to find out what adjustments can be made, or recommend a suitable replacement for you.

Another option to consider is to use an over-under kit for your trailer suspension. These kits move the leaf spring to the top of the axle, which may provide a bit of height on the back end of the trailer. These kits only work with double-eye springs, and when installed may introduce more trailer sway and could make the trailer more top-heavy. For axles that are 2-3/8 inches diameter the kit is part # K71-384-00. For 3 inch axles the kit that works is part # K71-385-00.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

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