Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch for 2017 Ford F-350 with 6-3/4 Foot Bed and Factory Pucks

Question:

I have just purchased a Ford F350 supercab 63/4foot bed with the factory puck system installed. I have a Vanleigh Vilano 365RL with a lippert rotoflex pin box. I have used a pullrite in the past on my previous truck and dont like the limitations it has. i.e. having to be straight on to hook up. I have a couple of concerns, first the clearance on my previous truck from the underside of the overhang of the fifth wheel to the top of the sides of the truck was such that if I was on any grade at all the rear of the truck sides pressed down on the back of the sides of the truck. That was a problem. It didnt dent the truck, but the new one is aluminium and having that issue could be a problem. So, I think that I want a fifth wheel hitch that can be as tall in the bed as possible. The sides of the truck are 20inch tall. What are your suggestions? Also, should I replace the Lippert rotoflex with a longer and lower reaching pin box. Thanks for your help.

asked by: David G

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2017 Ford F350, I recommend the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Ford Super Duty Prep Package - 18K # DM8550024. This hitch will fit your vehicle perfectly and will adjust up to 18-1/4 inches tall. With your king pin and rise, this will give you more than adequate clearance. The best thing about this hitch for a short bed truck like yours is that it automatically adjusts to give you the turning clearance you need. I've attached a video to assist. This will require a capture plate # DM6171.

For another option with a manual slide, I recommend the Curt Q24 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider for Ford Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 24,000 lbs # C16545-16020. This hitch will adjust even higher to 21-1/2 inches. This has a 360 degree head movement that allows easy connection and shock absorption.

Your Roto-Flex pin box is a really nice option, so I do not recommend replacing it.

expert reply by: Jason S