Sidewinder or Slider Hitch on 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with Short Bed

Question:

I have a 2014 Silverado 1500 with a 58inch box. Will I be able to get by with just a slider hitch or do I need a sidewinder? Also can a sidewinder be used with a slider?

asked by: Grant B

Expert Reply:

Sidewinders are generally recommended for all trucks with beds under 6 feet. There are some 5th wheel trailers designed to be used with short-bed trucks without the need for a sidewinder or sliding hitch. They have unique cutouts at the nose that go over the cab to ensure there is no contact. However, if you have a traditional 5th wheel, it's suggested that you use a Sidewinder.

Sidewinders can be used with traditional sliding hitches as long as the hitch is locked into the tow position. However, the hitch should never be set to the turning position, as this causes clearance issues with the tailgate and it puts the hitch weight too far behind the rear axle for safety. Sidewinders should never be used with auto-sliding hitches.

I recommend going with a fixed hitch like the M5 Series, part # RP30928. This particular hitch has a weight capacity of 20,000 lbs. For installation, I recommend the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Outboard Installation Kit, # RP56007-53. This kit includes the base rails, brackets, and necessary hardware for installing the hitch. Because this is a custom kit designed to fit your vehicle, installation is much quicker and simpler than it would be with a universal kit, and drilling is kept to a minimum.

If you are in need of wiring, I also recommend the 5th Wheel 90-Degree Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Plug, # 50-97-410, confirmed to fit the 2014 Silverado with a factory 7-way.

As Sidewinders are custom designed, we'll need to locate the part number of your current pin box to determine a compatible replacement. If you'd like to send me your pin box number, I'd be happy to make a recommendation for a Sidewinder that will work for you.

I've attached two articles for you to check out. One has some useful information about Sidewinders, and the other explains how to measure your pin box to obtain the pin box number. I've also attached several video reviews of the products I mentioned as well as a few installation videos on vehicles similar to yours.