Best 5th Wheel Options For A 2001 Ford F-250 Short Bed

Question:

Hi. Buying a 2001 F-250 short bed. It already has above bed rails installed. Are the rails mounted to accept any brand of hitch. Do you have an affordable automatic sliding 5th wheel hitch that will work. Thanks

asked by: Laird N

Helpful Expert Reply:

Pretty much all of the above bed rails made today are an industry standard design to accept most brands of 5th wheel hitches but there were a few older above bed rails out there that were specific to their brand. In order to ensure a proper fit you will need to measure the distance between the mounting slots. I have attached a photo on how to properly do so.

The only auto-sliding 5th wheel hitch options we have available is the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 21k part # DM8550035. Available in 13K part # DM8550040, 18K part # DM8550034 and 21K part # DM8550035 capacities. These hitches provide an additional 14" for the 18K/21K models, and 22.5" for the 13K model, of clearance featuring an auto-sliding mechanism, eliminating the need for periodic slide unlocking and locking.

A more cost effective option entails the use of our B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # BWRVK3270. The B&W Patriot is not an auto-sliding hitch, but the slide automatically locks in place once the hitch moves reducing the number of trips that you have to make out of your truck when making tight turns. B&W offers a quality product at an affordable price compared to the automatic sliding hitches. Featuring a double locking jaw and polyurethane bushing for limited vibrations, this product will serve as an excellent choice for your needs.

Another option to consider entails the use of our fixed hitch with Sidewinder. I recommend the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs # C16115 with Wedge # RP64FR.

In order to recommend the correct Sidewinder king pin, I would need to know the brand and model number of your current trailer king pin stamped into the unit. If you are able to provide me with this information I would be glad to suggest an exact fit option. The 5th Airborne 5th Wheel King Pins By Reese are an excellent top of the line option featuring an airbag design for added comfort. These king pins are available in a variety of models compatible with various types of existing king pins. Additionally they will provide up to 22'' inches of extra turning clearance.

I have attached a few supporting documents for you review.