Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2016 Ford F-350 Short Bed with Hitch Prep

Question:

Can I use the RP30142 Reese Fifth wheel hitch on my 2016 F-350 Ford Super Duty with a 6 3/4 foot box and the factory installed prep kit?

asked by: Rod

Expert Reply:

The Reese Elite 30142 that you referenced will fit the hitch prep package you have installed in the bed of your 2016 Ford F-350, but since your truck is a short bed you would have to use a Sidewinder pin box with this hitch to be able to make tight turns. A Sidewinder moves the pivot point back for the hitch 22 inches so that the trailer can turn tightly and not hit the truck cab.

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 other option you have is to go with a slider hitch that moves back when making tight turns. The best option for that would be an auto-slider like Demco Hijacker part # DM8550038. Instead of having to get out everytime you need to make a tight turn this hitch will slide back automatically. Check out the review video I attached for more info.

expert reply by: Jameson C