Can Same Fifth Wheel Hitch be Used with Short and Long Bed Trucks

Question:

We are in the process of buying a new 5th wheel and need to have our hitch mounted. We have 2 different 5th wheel hitches and want to know is there any difference in a hitch for a short bed or a regular long bed hitch? We have a 2003 GMC 2 wheel dually and my husband is concerned because the 2 hitches are not the same height.

asked by: Michelle G

Expert Reply:

Short bed trucks typically require a slider hitch to allow for turning clearance. The shorter distance between the axle of the truck and the cab makes it hard to make a tight turn without the nose of the trailer hitting the cab of the truck.

So a slider like the Reese part # RP30075 can slide back when in a parking lot to give you the clearance you need. Whereas if you have a long bed you wouldn't need a slider and a part # RP30047 would work fine.

That said a slider hitch can be used in a long bed truck but you'd need to just leave it slid forward at all times. Both of these hitches are height adjustable too. You want the trailer to sit level and have at least 6 inches of clearance from the bed rails to the trailer overhang.

expert reply by: Jameson C