Truck Bed Clearance Needed for a 5th Wheel Trailer and a 2012 Ford F-150 with a 5-1/2 ft Bed

Question:

I had the rail version of the Ultimate 5th wheel connection installed in my 2012 Ford F150 Truck. The bed is the 5 ft. 6inch long.. I purchased a new 5th wheel and mounted the greaseless coupler to the kingpin. I can only turn my 5th wheel about 45 degrees each way without the pinbox hitting the side rails of my truck. What can be done to get more clearance so I have a better turn radius. Pin Box is Lippert Pin box model Lipp1621

asked by: Darrell S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since your 2012 Ford F-150 has a 5-1/2 ft bed, the first recommendation I have is to replace your Andersen Ultimate Fifth Wheel Connection, # AM3200, with a fifth wheel hitch like the Reese 16K Fifth Wheel Hitch, # RP30047, that you referenced. The Andersen Ultimate Fifth Wheel Connection is not recommended for trucks with beds shorter than 6 ft.

My next recommendation is to replace your Lippert 1621 pin box with a Sidewinder pin box like the Reese Sidewinder Pin Box, # RP34FR. This Sidewinder was designed as a direct replacement for your Lippert 1621 pin box, so there will be no fit issues with your trailer. The pin box itself will remain stationary and the only rotating that will take place will be at the turret of the pin box, not at the fifth wheel hitch (see photo).

You will not have to worry about the pin box hitting the truck bed walls with a Sidewinder. Truck bed wall clearance is a fairly new concern because truck manufacturers are making their truck bed walls taller and taller. Other than a Sidewinder, we do not offer a pin box with a greater pitch or angle to clear your truck bed side walls.

Another advantage to a Sidewinder pin box is that it also offers the maximum turning clearance between the trailer and the cab of the truck because the pivot point of the trailer moves back 22 inches. I have attached a few FAQ articles on Sidewinder pin boxes for you to check out. Please note, it is not recommended to use a sliding fifth wheel hitch with a sidewinder pin box.

expert reply by: John H