Short Bed or Long Bed Truck for Towing Fifth Wheel Trailer
Question:
Hello, Im in the market to buy both a truck and 5th wheel trailer. The trailer we want weighs 12000 lb with a tongue weight of 2070 lb. I want to buy the Dodge Ram 2500 diesel. My questions are: which transmission is best, should I get the 8ft bed or will the 6.5 bed be ok. Id like to buy the mega cab but that doesnt come with a 8 ft bed. Which choice truck is best for that size trailer. Thank you
asked by: Jim B
Expert Reply:
For fifth wheel towing a long bed truck will give you the best towing experience. Short bed trucks require slider hitches to allow cab to trailer clearance which is a viable option, but a long bed will just be much easier to deal with since you won't have to deal with a slider hitch. Slider hitches are typically pretty heavy, have quite a bit of movement, and require manual operation every time you get to a parking lot.
Unless you go with a Demco Hijacker AutoSlide like part # DM8550035. This hitch slides automatically around turns. If you really want a MegaCab with the short bed this would be the best option.
The stationary hitch Reese part # RP30081 that you referenced would be an excellent option for if you go with a long bed.
Products Referenced in This Question
Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 21,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Sliding Fifth Wheel
- Aftermarket Below Bed Rails
- 5250 lbs Vertical Load
- 21000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Premium - Single-Hook Jaw
- 15-1/4 - 18 Inch Tall
- 14 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- Demco
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- Video: Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider Review
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Shop: Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 21,000 lbs
- Article: Best 2021 Trucks for Towing a 5th Wheel
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