How to Determine if Slider Version of B&W Companion is Needed for 2017 Ford F-250 Short Bed

Question:

I have a 2017 f-250, with a 69inch bed. I will be towing an 06foot raptor 5th wheel. I plan on using a bandw companion hitch compatible with OEM mounts. Do I really need the slider or not? Ive ready many post and most are saying they bought the slider feature and have never even had to use it. Any insight? I dont see the need to have my rig at a 90 degree angle for any reason, just need an experienced opinion, thanks.

asked by: BENJAMIN C

Expert Reply:

The short bed version of the 2017 Ford F-250 is a bit longer than most short beds at 6-3/4 feet. Most are 6 to 6-1/2 feet so I could see not needing a slider hitch if the trailer has a tapered nose or at least one that's narrower than most. For the non-slider Companion hitwe have have the part # BWRVK3300 which fits the OEM rail kit of your truck and would work well assuming you don't need the clearance. If you do need the clearance instead you'd want the # BWRVK3370.

There is a formula though that will allow you to determine what type of clearance you'd have.

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the fifth wheel jaw center to the truck cab. You can use axle center to cab plus 2 inches for this.
B = Offset used (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset)
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.

expert reply by: Jameson C