Parts Needed to Equip 2014 Ford F-150 Raptor Crew Cab for 5th Wheel Towing

Question:

HI, I have a 2014 Crew Cab Ford Raptor truck. Looking to get a 7,200lb dry weight 5th wheel trailer for it. Is this possible and if so what would I need to do this?

asked by: Julian

Helpful Expert Reply:

We can help you with 5th wheel hitch installation in your 2014 Ford F-150 Raptor crew cab with 5-1/2-foot bed.

You can click on the linked page to see custom-fit 5th wheel installation kits and hitches. Custom install kits like # RP50081-58 will save you time on the install by eliminating some of the drilling required. Please refer to the linked installation video for details. Once these base rails are installed you can install a 5th wheel hitch like the 16K Reese # RP30047. You'll also need a wiring harness in the truck bed for the trailer's wiring to connect. Use part # PK11893-11932 which offers easy plug-in installation.

Short bed trucks like yours require that the 5th wheel trailer have a special pivoting pin box called a Sidewinder. Sidewinders allow the trailer's pivot point to be moved back 22-inches from the hitch which provides the extra turning clearance needed with short beds towing 5th wheels. Please refer to the linked article on Sidewinders. You'll also need the Wedge # SWW-03 for the 5th wheel hitch to fit better with the Sidewinder.

I reviewed an online manual for the 2014 Ford F-150 Raptor and on page 12 it notes the maximum towing capacity for the SuperCrew cab version is 8K, 6K for the SuperCab. Be sure to check your own printed owner's manual for the towing capacity of your particular truck, or contact your local Ford dealership with your Raptor's VIN so they can look it up for you. Keep in mind that once you fill the trailer's water and propane tanks and load your supplies and recreational gear your actual trailer weight will be substantially higher. Be sure to select a 5th wheel trailer that 1) has a Sidewinder pin box and that 2) will not exceed the truck's capacity when it is loaded.

As always, it is a good idea to have some safety margin in any towing application. These days it is possible to buy a 5th wheel trailer that is substantially lighter than traditional trailers thanks to use of advanced composite materials.