Solution for Lowered Tailgate on 2016 Ford F-350 Being too Close to 5th Wheel Trailer when Coupling

Question:

I HAVE 2016 350 FORD WITH A 8 FOOT BED CURTIS. 5TH WHEEL HITCH MY 5TH WHEEL IS A 2018 COUGAR 25 RES WITH 1621 PIN BOX . WHAT I NEED IS MORE ROOM WHEN THE TAIL GATE IS DOWN ON HOOK UP ITS REALLY CLOSE. I NEED 2 OR 4 INCHES ARE THE ROTA-FLEX PIN BOX ANY LONGER , ANY SUGGESTION

asked by: DEAN

Expert Reply:

If you have a Lippert 1621 pin box that measures 17-3/4" from the center of the king pin to the center of the first row of bolt holes then I do have a pin box that will give you a little bit of additional clearance.

The Trailair Air Ride 5th Wheel Pin Box # LC158778 is a direct replacement for a Lippert 1621 pin box and measures 19-1/2" from the center of the king pin to the first row of bolt holes (see attached picture). Aside from this pin box all of the options have the same measurement as your original pin box.

If the 1-3/4" of extra clearance isn't quite what you are looking for then I do have another option for you. You can change out your tailgate for a louvered style which has a dip in the center of it to accommodate a 5th wheel trailer. The best option we have is the Stromberg Carlcon # VG-97-4000 which is made of a glass-filled, black composite plastic (similar to typical plastic) which will not rust. This is made in the USA comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

For a more cost effective option you can use the Stromberg Carlson 4000 Series 5th Wheel Louvered Tailgate # VG-97-4000 which has a glass-filled, black composite plastic frame. It is also made in the USA and has the option to add an accessory kit # 4000-V to help keep prying eyes from seeing the contents of your tailgate.

I have attached some review videos for you to also check out.