Using Demco Hijacker on 2017 GMC Sierra with Factory Rail Kit and Fuel Tank in Bed  

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Expert Reply:

In order to use the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # DM8550035 with your 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 that has the factory puck system you will need to first add the Demco 5th Wheel Rail Adapter # DM6194. This rail adapter will mount to the pucks in the bed and provide industry standard rails that the Hijacker mounts to.

From the center post on the adapter to the front/cab edge of the base rail there is a distance of 10.28 inches. What you can do is take this measurement from the center puck in your truck bed up towards the cab to see if the rail will interfere with your existing tank. I recommend leaving a bit of a safety margin too and rounding up to 11 inches for proper clearance. You will also want to account for the height of your tank to ensure there isn't a chance of the trailer overhang making contact.

If you find that you won't have enough clearance or it looks to be a little too close for comfort, then I definitely recommend going with a Sidewinder pin box and a fixed hitch like the Reese M5 # RP30890 that will mount directly to the pucks. A Sidewinder pin box will move the pivot point 22 inches behind the king pin so you won't have to worry about cab or fuel tank clearance when making tight turns.

Reese Sidewinders are designed to replace the factory pin box on the trailer so in order to pick out the correct unit you will need to determine what your trailer is equipped with. The pin box number should be stamped right onto the pin box itself or listed on a sticker. If you can tell me what you have I will be happy to recommend the correct Sidewinder.

expert reply by: Chris R

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