Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch for 9 Foot Flatbed for Turning Clearance

Question:

I have a 9 foot flatbed. Will there be room to turn if the hitch is placed over the axles?

asked by: Eldon

Expert Reply:

For your 9 foot flatbed truck., I recommend the Reese Low-Profile 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 30,000 lbs # RP30054 for your hitch. This hitch is recommended to put the king pin 4 inches ahead of the rear axle. Depending on your trailer, you may or may not have clearance for turning at that point, so you will need to do some measuring. From that point 4 inches forward of axle center, measure to the rear corner of your flat bed. Then you will need to measure from the center of the king pin of your trailer to the closest point of your 5th wheel. The difference will determine your turning clearance.

If it is not enough clearance, you may consider using a Sidewinder to increase your turning ability. To know what part is correct, you will need to know the pin box number of your trailer. Each pin box should have a sticker on it to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S