How to Determine if Installed Base Rails on 2004 Chevy Silverado 2500 are Industry Standard

Question:

I purchased a used truck with rails mounted in the box already. Its 2004 crew cab short box Duramax. I would like to purchase either a gooseneck hitch and/or a 5th wheel hitch but I am unsure as to what I can purchase that would work with the existing rails. How can I figure out what is compatible with my rails?

asked by: Dion

Helpful Expert Reply:

Most likely you have industry standard base rails installed on your 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and so there are plenty of options when it comes to 5th wheel hitches. You can confirm that they are industry standard by measuring the mounting locations on the rails themselves. The 3 mounting locations should measure 10", 20-1/2", and 29" on center (see photo). Also, the front to back center slot to center slot dimension is 22".

Since you have a short bed on your Chevy it is recommended that you use a sliding 5th wheel like the Curt A20 # C16541. The dual-jaw design and a pivoting head help to create a smooth ride and minimize chucking and jarring. It is compatible with industry standard rails and offers 12" of travel so that your trailer will clear your truck cab for those tight turn situations.

If you are wanting to use your truck to pull a gooseneck trailer then you can use the Andersen Ultimate Connection # AM3200 to do so as it also mounts to industry standard rails. This adapter does come with an adapter that makes it compatible with your 5th wheel trailer, but since it only has a 9" offset that might not be enough to clear your cab while turning.

If you don't already have a 7-Way mounted in your truck bed then I recommend installing the Curt item # C56000 to make connecting and disconnecting your trailer(s) easier.