Towing 5th Wheel Trailer with 2003 Ford F-150 that has 5-1/2 Foot Bed

Question:

My hitch that came with my 5th wheel camper is the Pro 30056 rated for 15,000 pounds. My camper GVW is 6200 lbs. Its a 1991, 21 ft. Innsbruck by Gulf Stream. I dont think this hitch is a double jaw but instead a slide locking??? Will it make some noise going down the rode? Is it a safe enough hitch? Second question is the mounting rails I got with the 5th wheel hitch is a 30095 Base Rail Mounting Kit. Will it fit on my 2003, Ford F150 FX 4 Off Road Pickup? The box is only 5.5 ft. long. With this short box can I mount my hitch and pull my 21 ft. Innsbruck 5th wheel? I understand turning will be tight if need to back into a tight camp sight. My pickup has a 5.4 liter engine. Thanks

asked by: Denny P

Helpful Expert Reply:

To tow a 5th wheel trailer with your 2003 Ford F-150 that has a 5-1/2 foot bed, you will need a fixed 5th wheel hitch along with a Sidewinder Pin Box to move the pivot point of the king pin back 22 inches. This will allow for proper clearance when making sharp turns.

The Pro Series 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch that you mentioned having, which is similar to the part # RP30047, has a 16,000 pound towing capacity and is compatible with your Reese RP30095 Rails.

The # 30095 Base Rails you have are a universal item and they will work and install just fine on your Ford F-150.

Then for a Sidewinder King Pin, you will want to first locate the pin box number on your trailer. This should be displayed with a sticker or stamped into the king pin itself. If you cannot locate this number, you can also contact the trailer manufacturer with your VIN and they will be able to provide you with this information.

For example, the Reese Sidewinder # RP34FR is designed for use with the Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD pin boxes. If you are able to tell me the pin box number on your trailer, I will be happy to recommend a compatible Sidewinder. I have also attached a link that will take you to our available selection that you can look through.

expert reply by: Chris R