How Long is the 5th Airborne Premium Fifth Wheel Air Ride Coupler, # 5AB-E510-710

Question:

How much longer is this fifth wheel pin extended model over the normal unit. My thinking was to move the mounted ball ahead of the axle and go to the extended style pin box. I really like the way the forward mounted fifth wheel hitches allow the truck to handle, but I dont like hitting the cab on my short box. Can a gooseneck be attached to this extended model. The trailer i have ordered has 1925lbs hitch weight dry - toy hauler. My truck has a 6 2 box 03 dodge 3500 4 x 4 quad cab.

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

I went out to the warehouse to measure a 5th Airborne Premium Fifth Wheel Air Ride Coupler, # 5AB-E510-710. From the back row of bolt holes to the center of the king pin measures 27-1/2 inches. The total overall length is 37 inches. Since you have a short bed truck. You will probably benefit from a sidewinder that allows for more clearance than a slider. A round tube slider will, at max, extend back 12 inches. A sidewinder will provide 22 inches. We have sidewinders by themselves or with the 5th Airborne units. I have included a link below that explains the sidewinder and how to measure. I have also included a link to the pin box conversion chart.

Neither the sidewinder nor the 5th Airborne Units can be used with a gooseneck adapter. I do not recommend moving the location of the ball in the truck bed. The proper location to get the most towing ability from the truck is 44 inches from the rear of the truck bed. This should place the center of the ball directly over or slightly ahead of the rear axle.

If the trailer is a 5th wheel trailer and you need a 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter, I recommend the Ranch Hitch with 8 inch Offset # AM3139.

expert reply by: Michael H