Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation for 2015 Ford F-250 Short Bed

Question:

I have a 2015 Ford F250 with a 6.5 foot box. I have on order a 2016 Reflection 303RLS which has rounded front corners. Will a standard 5th wheel hitch allow me to make a 90 degree turn without damaging my cab? If not, what degree of turn will a standard 5th hitch provide me? If I need a slider or a standard hitch with an extended pin box on the trailer, what would you recommend taking into consideration both equipment and installation costs. Unfortunately, my dealer cannot give me a definitive answer. I appreciate your advice.

asked by: Terry T

Expert Reply:

Most likely you are going to need to go with a slider hitch to give you the clearance needed or a Sidewinder pin box like the part # RP34FR that you referenced to allow you to make sharp turns with a stationary hitch.

There is a formula that can be used to determine if you would have enough clearance. Since it's nearly impossible to answer your question definitely without the trailer and vehicle in front of me this is the best way to determine what you are looking for.

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the fifth wheel jaw center to the truck cab (the rear axle center can work too if you do not have a hitch)
B = Offset used (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset)
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.

If you are really dead set on using a stationary hitch you would most likely have to use a Sidewinder.

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.

For a rail kit you would want the part # RP50026-58 which is a custom install kit that will minimize drilling and install time. For a hitch then you would want the # RP30928 as it has an excellent jaw design for reducing hitch noise and works great with a Sidewinder. You'll also need the # RP44FR to prevent the king pin from pivoting in the jaws of the hitch as well.