Compatibility of 5th Wheel Hitch with 2013 Chevrolet 1500 Short Bed

Question:

hey guys I have a 2013 chevy 1500 short bed with air bags and super slide fifth wheel hitch, cant find - will it fit chart. can u help???

asked by: Russ P

Expert Reply:

The fixed 5th wheel hitch you referenced, Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30928, will fit into any brand of industry-standard above-bed 5th wheel base rails. For the easiest installation in the 5-1/2-foot bed 1500 I suggest the custom install kit # RP50064-58 which requires no frame drilling for the brackets.

In your short bed truck you will not be able to use a slider hitch for making tight turns. Instead your truck will use a Sidewinder replacement pin box along with a fixed hitch like the Reese # RP30081. Sidewinders are chosen based on the original pin box part number, as described in the linked article. The article linked below also includes the formula for determining your turning clearance. 4-inches is the recommended minimum.

If you also need a wiring harness for the truck you can use part # 50-97-410 from Bargman.

expert reply by: Adam R