5th Wheel Trailer Hitch and Install Kit for 2012 Toyota Tundra w/5-1/2 Foot Bed & Open Range 318RLS

Question:

Hello, I have a 2012 tundra crew max 4x4 with 5.7inch bed. I will be towing an open range light 318rls. It is 1/2 ton towable and the forward pin and nose are designed to not hit the cab at 90 degrees . Which hitch do you recommend for my setup?

asked by: Darryl

Expert Reply:

I took a look at that 5th wheel trailer and that is a great design for a short bed truck like your 2012 Toyota Tundra with 5-1/2 foot bed. With the design of the trailer you can use a regular fixed hitch instead of a slider. But if you ever get a different trailer that doesn't have the same design you would have to either get a different hitch or pin box on the trailer so that is something to consider.

Your truck will first need an installation kit to mount a hitch. I recommend a custom kit since they require less drilling and install in less time compares to universal or semi-custom kits. You can use Reese kit # RP50084-58. I have linked the installation instructions for you.

For a fixed 5th wheel hitch I recommend the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs # C16115.

If you think you might go with a different trailer in the future and want to get a slider hitch I recommend the Demco HiJacker 13K model # DM8550040 for 2 reasons. First, this hitch slides automatically so you won't have to do anything to make it slide. And second this hitch has 22-1/2 inches of travel making it ideal for trucks with super short beds like yours. This means that you won't not have to replace the pin box on a trailer with a Sidewinder. I have linked a video of this hitch as well.

expert reply by: Michael H