Recommended Fifth Wheel Hitch With Adjustable Height Setting

Question:

Hi, I am looking for a FW hitch with a slider. I have F350, 2018, 4X4, Crew, SB, camper package with the puck system. My FW will be approximately 11,000 pounds once loaded. I am a bit concerned about the height of my truck. The distance from the ground to the top of the tailgate is approximately 60 inches. The distance from the ground to the top of the bed floor opened tailgate is 39 inches. The distance from the ground to the pin box skid plate is 53 inches. The distance from the ground to the underside of the front FW body FW overhang is 64 inches. I was told to expect the truck to squat by 2 to 3 inches when hooked up and that I need a least 5 to 6 inches of clearance between the truck bed rail and the FW overhang. Based on calculation, it seems that I would need a hitch that can be adjusted to 16 inches in height. 53 – 37 39-2 inches squat = 16. I have noticed that the pin box can be raised by 1 hole. Are my numbers ok? Which FW hitches would you recommend? Could I use a regular FW hitch with the reese rail adaptor?

asked by: Charles

Expert Reply:

I will be happy to explain which fifth wheel will give you the height you need tow your fifth wheel trailer. Yes, your numbers and measurements appear to be very accurate, thank you for being so detailed. We do recommend at least 6 inches of clearance between the top of the truck bed rails and the bottom of your trailer. The amount of squat will vary but estimating 2" to 3" is a fair assumption.

Ideally you would want to prevent as much squat as possible and to do this I recommend suspension enhancement. The Timbren Suspension Enhancement System # TFRTT350J uses hollow rubber springs that sit above the rear axle to help stabilize and level your vehicle. They also provide a more comfortable ride by absorbing road shock and improving roll stability.

The Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider # DM8550024 has hitch height settings of 15-1/4", 16-1/2", and 18".

The Hijacker Autoslide # DM8550024 has feet that fit into your OEM tow package and they allow you to raise or lower the hitch head to better match your pin box height. After you choose your desired height setting simply bolt the side plates to the hitch base with the included hardware. This hitch should have plenty of adjustment even if your truck squats more or less than your original figure.

If you need Trailer Wiring, I recommend the Demco 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with # DM8555002.

With the above products you will be able to have the desired height you need safely tow your fifth wheel trailer behind your F-350.