Best 5th Wheel Hitch Recommendation for 2022 Ford F-250 Short Bed w/ Factory Puck System

Question:

Hello - We just bought a 2021 Jayco Pinnacle 32RLTS that well be pulling with a 2022 Ford F-250 with the 6.75inch Standard Bed which also has the factory 5th wheel prep and puck system installed. Which hitch would you recommend for this set up? Im hoping to avoid a slider if possible. But willing to do what is necessary. The Pinnacle has a Moryde Pin Box, and I also have a BakFlip hard folding bed cover that i want to keep on the truck. Can you help?

asked by: Joe H

Helpful Expert Reply:

Because it's a short bed truck, and considering that your BAKFlip tonneau cover takes up several inches of bed space when it's folded up, you're really going to need to use a sliding hitch. Because your tonneau cover will extend 7 to 9 inches into the truck bed from the back of the cab when it's folded all the way forward, you might find you'll need to remove the cover when you're 5th wheel towing.

I can understand your reluctance to go with a slider, it can definitely be a pain to jump out of the truck and actuate the slider when making low speed turns, but the Demco Hijacker Auto Slide which is available in a 18K capacity as part # DM8550024 or a 21K capacity as part # DM8550038 will automatically slide rearward during turns, which increases the clearance between the back of the cab and the front of the 5th wheel. When the turn is completed, the hitch head will move back forward to it's towing position. The system work really well and it's super convenient. You'll also need a # DM6025 locking plate.

I've linked to a product video featuring the Demco Hijacker Auto Slide for you to look over.

expert reply by: Mike L