Sidewinder Pin Box versus Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed 2017 Ford F-150

Question:

I have a 2017 F 150 with a 5-6 in. box, will this work with a Demco Highjacker fifth wheel hitch combined with the sidewinder/evolution pin box. Turning radius is very tight with this configuration i am in the process of purchasing a fifth wheel unit. Dealer says the sidewinder will work but i have my doubts do you have any other configurations that might work for me. Thanks.

asked by: Larry J

Expert Reply:

With sliding 5th wheel hitches such as the Demco Hijacker series it is not possible to also use a Sidewinder/Revolution pivoting pin box, nor any type of adapter that changes the trailer's pivot point. If the trailer you purchase has a revolution or sidewinder pin box, then you'd need to lock it out to use the Hijacker autoslide or you'd have two moving parts which would be very dangerous.

For your 2017 Ford F-150 with 5-1/2-foot bed you need to use a Sidewinder/Revolution pivoting pin box along with a standard fixed-type 5th wheel hitch. Pickups with mid-size beds, such as the 6-1/2-foot length, can get by with just a slider hitch but very-short-bed trucks are just not able to provide turning clearance with a slider. Beds shorter than 6-feet must use a Sidewinder and a fixed hitch. Please refer to the linked article for more.

If you have not yet selected your trailer I urge you to consider one with a tapered overhang. Tapered 5th wheel trailers naturally provide better turning clearance than flat-front trailers.

The linked page displays all fixed 5th wheel hitches that are compatible with Sidewinders and custom-fit installation kits for your F-150 with 5-1/2-foot bed. Custom base rail kits like # RP50087-58 will take less time to install.

expert reply by: Adam R