Can a 5th Wheel Trailer Be Towed by a 2007 Toyota Tundra Crew Max with 5-1/2 Foot Bed

Question:

I have a 2007 Tundra Crew Max with the 5.5foot bed and want to haul a 5th wheel camper. I am wondering if this hitch system will work in the 5.5foot bed.

asked by: Brett

Expert Reply:

First, the Convert-A-Ball adapter, # CAB-C5GX1216, is designed for towing a 5th wheel trailer if the truck has a gooseneck trailer hitch. If your truck has a gooseneck hitch using an adapter will make the trailer further back if there is an offset, however, since the pivot point of the trailer does not change, you will not get extra clearance to make tight turns, something that is a necessity for camp grounds and other places where space is limited.

The only way that you might be able to tow a 5th wheel trailer with a bed shorter than 6 feet is to use a fixed 5th wheel hitch and a Sidewinder. For a 5th wheel hitch I have linked the options for you. For an installation kit you would use # RP30035-309. Once installed the center of the king pin of the trailer will be 3-1/2 inches forward of the center of the rear axle. Find this point in the truck bed and measure to the back of the truck cab.

After you take this measurement, add 22 inches for the length of the Sidewinder. Then from that, subtract half the width of the trailer. The result needs to be at least positive 4 inches for you to be able to tow the trailer using the hitch and Sidewinder.

If it works out that you can tow the trailer with a Sidewinder, you will need to get the pin box manufacturer and model number which should be on the pin box. Then use the link to the Sidewinder FAQ article to determine if there is a Sidewinder that fits that specific pin box model.

expert reply by: Michael H