Is a Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Necessary for a 2001 Ford F-350 With a 6ft 9in Bed

Question:

Have a 2001 F350 ford....mid range box.... 6ft 9in..... do I need a slider hitch, or can I get away with a conventional hitch?

asked by: Ken W

Expert Reply:

I would definitely recommend using a sliding fifth wheel hitch on your 2001 Ford F-350 with a 6 ft 9 in bed. Sliding hitches are always recommend on trucks with beds shorter than 8 feet. You could use a fixed hitch with your truck, but you will most likely not be able to make a 90 degree turn safely without the use of a sidewinder pin box on your trailer.

If you do not already have a hitch and rails for your truck, then I would recommend taking a look at the Reese 20K Sliding Fifth Wheel Hitch, # RP30083, and the Custom Installation Kit, # RP50082-58. I have attached the installation instructions and an installation video on a similar truck for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H