Fifth Wheel Hitch Options for a 2007 Chevy Silverado with a 7 ft Bed

Question:

I am looking to tow a 28 ft. 5 th whell travel trailer. I have a 2007 new body style 1500 silverado with the standard 7 ft bed and a tool box. The bed may be a 6 1/2 insyead of 7 but is not the shortest bed length. What are my options? Is this even a good idea? I have towed a 25 ft tag along with no issues. thank you

asked by: Randy H

Expert Reply:

If it is a 6-1/2 foot bed then you could use a hitch with a slider like the Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Square Tube Slider # RP30051 that you referenced. You would slide the hitch into the rear most position when making tight turns, and then you would slide the hitch forward into tow mode once you got out of the parking lot.

If you have a truck bed that is 6 foot or shorter you would have to get a Sidewinder pin box to allow you to make tight turns. You would still benefit from one of these if you have a 6-1/2 foot bed as you would never have to slide the hitch slider and you would get better turning characteristics, but it should not be required on the 6-1/2 foot bed.

Sidewinders are pin box specific so you will need to know which pin box model you have installed on your trailer before you pick one out. Usually the pin box number is listed on a plate somewhere on the pin box itself. I attached an FAQ page that has a chart with all of the different pin boxes listed and the correct Sidewinders for them.

You will also want to consider the height of your tool box above the bed rails, as this may interfere with the loft of your trailer.

expert reply by: Jameson C