5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Installation Kit for a 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500 Short Bed

Question:

Im installing a 5th wheel hitch in a 2008 chevy 1500. 4x4. The hitch is a reese 14000 lb hitch. I need the measurements for the cross rails that bolt to the bed. The truck is a short bed. Any help would be appreciated

asked by: Kevin

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are 2 short beds for the 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500; a 5-1/2 foot bed and a 6-1/2 foot bed. For either one you can use the Reese universal installation kit # RP30035 that you have referenced. If you only have the rails though you will need the underbed brackets as well, # RP30439.

I have included a link to the installation instructions for the RP30035 kit that includes the measurements you need to begin the installation. For your truck the instructions start on page 6. Measure from the rear edge of the bed (not the tailgate) forward 25-1/8 inches. This is where the back edge of the rear rail will sit. After that it is easy, just use the hitch placed in the rear rail to find the location of the front rail.

If you do have a 5-1/2 foot bed then you will need to use a Sidewinder in order to make tight turns. Sidewinders are specific to certain pin boxes. Check the trailers pin box for a plate or sticker with the manufacturer and model information on it. Then use our Sidewinder FAQ article which I have linked for you to determine if there is a Sidewinder available. If the hitch you have is a slider AND you have the 5-1/2 foot bed, you cannot slide the hitch back while using a Sidewinder. It must remained locked in the towing position at all times.

expert reply by: Michael H