Is Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Actually Necessary for 2022 Chevy Silverado 2500 Short Bed Truck

Question:

My 2022 Chevy Silverado 2500 short bed has the pucks in the bed, and I'd like to install a 5th wheel hitch. Do I really need a sliding hitch? I'd rather not fool with the slider if I don't have to.

asked by: Bud

Expert Reply:

With a few exceptions, you will indeed need a sliding hitch for your short bed Silverado.

Here are the exceptions:

• You won't need a slider if your 5th wheel is equipped with a rotating pin box like the Reese
Sidewinder/Revolution or the Lippert Turning Point.

• If the front of your 5th wheel has concave, dished in front corners and the manufacturer specifically states that a
sliding hitch isn't needed, then you can use a stationary hitch like the B&W # BWRVK3710 Companion you'd
looked at.

If you don't meet either of those parameters, you really do need a sliding hitch.

It sounds like the primary reason you don't want a sliding hitch is the fact that you'd need to exit the vehicle to actuate the slider, do your low speed maneuvering then exit the vehicle again to return the hitch to its forward position. If you were to go with the Demco Hijacker Auto Slide 5th wheel hitch, part # DM8550034 for the 18K capacity model or # DM8550035 for the 21K model. You'll also need the # DM6333 install rails to join the hitch to the pucks.

During turns, the hitch head will automatically slide rearward as the turn begins and when the turn is finished it will return to its frontward position. The video I've linked for you shows how the hitch works.