Does Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel Have Turning Clearance for Short Bed 2011 Ford F-250

Question:

I have a 2011 Ford F 250 looking to haul a 2005 coachmen 5th wheel trailer. I was looking at installing 5th wheel rails and getting an Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch System with Adapter - 20,000 lbs. Can you tell me if that system will give me the additional space needed between trailer and cab with a 6 3/4 ft. bed as a traditional 8 ft. bed with a straight fifth wheel hitch or will I have to consider a slider. We also have a F 350 2005 dually with a flatbed on it with a recessed gooseneck hitch in it. Is it possible to install fifth wheel rails on that as well ? Thank you

asked by: Carl S

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch System # AM3200 features a 9 inch offset which means it can be used on a short bed 2011 Ford F-250. You will not be able to make full 90 degree turns with the hitch so keep that in mind but you won't have any problems using the system.

For base rails on your F-250 I recommend the Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit with Base Rails # RP50026-58.

These are the best option because they do not require any drilling into the frame of your F-250 to install. I have added a link to a video review of these rails as well as the Andersen Ultimate Connection 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch System # AM3200.

As for your flat bed, 5th wheel rails are not designed for these type of trucks but we do have a solution for you. What you would need is the Demco Recon Gooseneck-to-5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter for Recessed Ball # DM8550046.

This will work so long as you do not have a high-rise hitch bal, and the top of the gooseneck ball is 13/16" or closer to the top of the truck bed.