Determining Cab Clearance Needed when Towing Trailer with 2018 Chevy Silverado 2500 Short Bed

Question:

I just bought a 2018 Chevrolet 2500 short box. With factory 5th wheel prep package. Id like to buy a 5th wheel hitch and would like to buy a regular hitch and not a slider, being the price difference is alot of money. I took some measurement and looks like it should clear. Id like to confirm with a expert to be sure. Trailer is 94in wide divided by 2 is 47in Measurement from cab to center of axle is 37in. 47-37=10in I like Kurt 25k part #C16066. Thanks

asked by: Jeff H

Expert Reply:

The formula for determining your cab clearance while making a turn is as follows:

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the fifth wheel jaw center to the truck cab
B = Offset used (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset)
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.

You are using the correct measurements on your truck and trailer, but just in the reverse order on the formula. If we subtract your trailer nose dimension of 47 inches (C) from your truck cab dimension of 37 inches (A), you get a clearance of - (negative) 10. In order to safely execute 90 degree turns, you will need a clearance of at least positive 4 inches.

This means for your truck and trailer, you will need a sliding hitch that provides at least 14 inches of travel to safely execute a 90 degree turn.

With this in mind, I highly recommend the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # DM8550034, along with the Rail Adapter # DM6194 that will allow you to easily mount the hitch to your Silverado's factory rail kit. This is a fantastic hitch that features an 18,000 pound towing capacity and will provide you with 14 inches of front to back sliding travel. The hitch will actually slide automatically when making a turn, so you will not need to leave the comfort of your cab. It has a premium, wraparound, single-piece jaw that will give you an excellent and secure connection to the trailer's king pin.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this system that you can check out, along with the written installation instructions.