How To Access 5th Wheel Basement While Trailer is Attached

Question:

I am looking for a replacement pin box for a FABEX Mdl 500 on my 2001 Mallard 295 S by Fleetwood. I have traded trucks from a 2006 F150 to a 2016 F250 SuperDuty. The existing pin box is too SHORT in length for the new truck with factory Reese 18k hitch. It lacks about 6 inches of being able to open the basementfoot door when hitched. The old truck the basement door cleared by about 2 inches. Any suggestions?

asked by: Ken J

Expert Reply:

I have a recommendation but unfortunately we do not offer a longer pin box to replace your Fabex MDI 500 to allow you to clear your basement door. The pin box you have is already considered 'long' and we do not have a pin box that is 6" longer for access to your door.

The only way to be able to open your basement door when your trailer is hitched is to remove your factory Reese 5th Wheel Hitch and install a Reese Sliding Fifth Wheel Hitch similar to part # RP30144 with under the bed rails # RP30126. This way when you do need access to your basement, you can slide your fifth wheel hitch rearward allowing you to meet the 6" of clearance you need to open the basement door on your 2001 Mallard 295 S.

I attached a review video of the Reese Sliding Hitch you may want to check out.

expert reply by: Sarah H