Is a Sidewinder Required to Tow a 5th Wheel Trailer with a 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 with 6-1/2 Foot Bed
Question:
Given the 22inch of travel, is it recommended to remove the tailgate when using the Sidewinder, or at least a V-gate, or is there enough clearancelengthwisefor tailgate to be up? Is bed-wall height an issue at all? Truck mfg. should not matter.....all 6.5foot beds are within millimeters of identical length, as well as the distance from rear axle to end of bed, and bed-wall heights do not vary by more than .5. Thanks!
asked by: Marc T
Expert Reply:
On a 6-1/2 foot bed, you may not need to remove the tailgate or use a 5th wheel tailgate when using a Sidewinder. However, I would still recommend either removing the tailgate or adding a 5th wheel tailgate anyway, better safe than sorry, especially on a new truck. I have included a link to the 5th wheel tailgates we offer fora 2012 Dodge Ram.
On a 6-1/2 foot bed, a slider hitch is normally enough extension, when slid back in the maneuvering position, to safely make tight turns. The only time a Sidewinder would be required would be if the 5th wheel trailer was very wide. In this case you would not use the Sidewinder with the slider hitch, you would use a stationary hitch.
Bed wall height can be an issue. On newer trucks, the bed height is going to be taller than on older models. Fifth wheel trailer hitches are height adjustable but you want to make sure you have 6 inches or more of clearance between the top of the bed rails and the bottom of the 5th wheel overhang.
Since we are talking about precise measurements required to avoid damage and injury, knowing the specific vehicle year, make, and model is important. But like you said, they are not drastically different. I have included a link to our FAQ article on Sidewinders for you.
