Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Installation Kit Recommendation for a 2002 Ford F-150 Short Bed Crew Cab

Question:

I have a Reece 16 k slider for a 02 ford f-150 crew cab shortbed will this work to pull a 02 forest river wildcat 29 rl and do you have any install tips thanks

asked by: Edward F

Expert Reply:

If your 2002 Ford F-150 is a crew cab, but NOT a Super Crew, you will first need an installation kit. I recommend the custom installation kits because they are quicker and easier to install. For your truck, you can use Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, # RP50042-58. I have included a link to the installation instructions and a link to a video showing a typical installation.

With this kit installed, the center of the hitch jaws will be 2-1/2 inches forward of the center of the rear axle. If you measure the distance from this point forward to the back of the truck cab, and then add 10 inches (for the distance the slider can travel) this will help us determine how much clearance you will have.

Next measure the width of the 5th wheel overhang (my researched showed it to be 96 inches) and dived by 2 to get half (48 inches). Take the first measurement you took plus the 10 inches and then subtract from that 48 inches to get how much clearance you will have when making 90 degree turns. You need at least 4 inches to safely make 90 degree turns.

We do have an FAQ article on 5th wheels including some installation tips. I have incldued a link to it for you.

expert reply by: Michael H