Determining if Andersen Ultimate Connection will Provide Enough Cab Clearance for 2013 Toyota Tundra

Question:

Is this option going to work with my 2013 Toyota Tundra Double Cab - 6.5foot bed. will there be any issues with clearance on turns? Would this be my best option? Im looking to pull a 2012 Palamino Puma 245RKS fifth wheel trailer. GVW is 8500#

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

The Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch System # AM3200 referenced in your question features a 9 inch offset to help with cab clearance. To see if this will be enough so that you can make 90 degree turns with your Toyota Tundra that has a 6-1/2 foot bed, there is a simple formula you can use:

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the fifth wheel jaw center to the truck cab (Since you don't have a hitch installed yet, you can use the center of the rear axle to the cab)
B = Offset used (Will use "9" here for the above-mentioned offset)
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.

In order to safely execute 90 degree turns, you will need a clearance of at least positive 4 inches. If you get 4 inches or more using this formula, the Andersen Hitch will be a great option. It features a 20,000 pound towing capacity, which is more than enough for your Palomino Puma and its extremely light weight of just 40 pounds allows for easy installation and removal.

The hitch will mount to any industry-standard, above-bed base rails. For this, I recommend the Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit # RP50084-58. This base rail kit includes custom brackets that will use existing holes in your Tundra's frame. This will eliminate any need for frame drilling and drastically reduce the installation time when compared to universal kits.

I have attached the written installation instructions for this kit that you can also take a look at.

If you find that the offset on the Andersen Hitch will not provide enough clearance, you will need to go with a sliding hitch instead, such as the excellent Reese # RP30083. This is a really nice hitch that features a forged single piece jaw design for a secure trailer connection and 11 inches of sliding travel. It is compatible with the above-mentioned base rails.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this hitch that you can check out.