Do I Have To Use a B&W Companion Slider 5TH Wheel Hitch on a 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD With Short Bed?

Question:

I just got a 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD and the dealer said that I must have a sliding 5th wheel hitch. The one they suggested was the B and W Companion. Do I have to use a sliding hitch? I have the factory hitch mounting points in my bed.

asked by: Gus

Expert Reply:

A Sliding B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch # BWRVK3775 is recommended as it will allow for you to be able to complete full jackknife turns with your 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD. The sliding hitch moves your hitch back 12" inside your truck bed giving you the additional clearance needed with a short bed truck when you need to make those sharp turns. This must be done manually and only be positioned in the maneuvering position to complete the turn. The hitch should immediately be placed back in the towing position to continue towing.

Since the center point of a Fixed B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch # BWRVK3710 is going to be approximately 42" from the cab, if you were to make a full jackknife turn with a 8' wide trailer you would have 6" of your trailer competing for space with your truck cab.

You can upgrade your 5th wheel pin box to a Reese Sidewinder # RP34FR style pin box that will allow for you to use the Fixed hitch as it relocates the hitch pivot point 22" to the rear of the hitch. This also means that you can stay inside your truck as you will not have to get out to manually unlock the hitch to slide it into the maneuvering position. To confirm the correct replacement pin box you will have to verify what pin box is on your 5th wheel and ensure the bolt mounting patterns and weight capacities are compatible.

expert reply by: Bud M