Should B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitch be Cut to Install with Tool Box in 2019 GMC Sierra 2500

Question:

My full size flush style truck tool box is too wide 18 inches max. to use in my new 2019 GMC 6 1/2 ft. Bed because the Companion 5th wheel hitch won’t allow the tool box to sit fully on the floor. Perhaps the hitch was mounted too far forward by a couple of inches? I can’t seem to find an 18 inch tool box on line. I’ve considered 1. Moving the hitch back 2 inches so the ball is directly over the axle. Expensive? 2. Cutting down and rewelding the box so it’s not too wide. Also expensive? 3. Cutting and rewelding notches into the tool box which would allow the hitch to be lifted up until the hitch could be moved backward and clear the tool box. 4. Cutting the forward arms of the hitch back by 2 inches they only rest on the floor and are not bolted down. Do you have any suggestions? I could have a custom box made but that’s way too expensive.

asked by: Harris

Helpful Expert Reply:

To be blunt you should definitely not alter the installation in any way of the Turnoverball Install Rails # BWGNRK1016-5W or the B&W Companion # BWRVK3400-5W, or the Companion # BWRVK3770 if you have the OEM pucks in your 2019 GMC Sierra 2500 with a 6-1/2 foot bed.

There may be one option for you since you mentioned 18 inches wide and that is the UWS Truck Bed Toolbox - 5th Wheel Series Chest # UWS01042 (Bright Aluminum) or # UWS01066 (Gloss Black). This box measures 58" long x 18" wide x 10" high and has 6 feet of usable cargo space.

Apart from this your best option would be a custom-made box but as you said, that can get pretty expensive.

I have added a link to a video review of this toolbox for you to check out.