Can Truck with Tool Box that Sits Higher than Bed Rails Tow 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

So I have a long bed dually 4wd. I put a diesel tank/ truck box combo. It sits 301/2” from the front of bed butting up to inner part of truckbed and 21/2” above the top rail. I did adjust to 6” of clearance before I put the truck box on. the truck does sit higher in the rear because it is a 4x4 Dodge Ram than most other truck s. You think there could be a issue with roll and pitch?

asked by: Denny

Expert Reply:

To safely tow a fifth wheel trailer you want to have at least 6 inches of clearance between the truck bed rails and the overhang of the fifth wheel trailer to give you the needed clearance for elevation changes like you mentioned. Since you have a tool box that sticks up above the bed rails 2-1/2 inches you'd need to add that additional height to the clearance you'd need from truck overhang to bed rails. So you'd need at least 8-1/2 inches while still allowing the trailer to sit as level as possible.

Looks like your Ram truck has the factory Ram rail kit so for a hitch to fit it the B and W Companion part # BWRVK3600 would be a great choice if you were looking for a hitch.

expert reply by: Jameson C