What to Consider When Determining Fifth Wheel Hitch Height in a 2013 Ford F150

Question:

I have the Reese 16Ton 5th wheel hitch. Bought a new F150 and the bed is 20 inch deep. hitch is only 18. is there an adapter that will raise the hitch an additional 4 inches in height?????? It is a non slider and I plan on using sidewinder.

asked by: Larry M

Helpful Expert Reply:

In order to determine what the proper height for a fifth wheel hitch is you need to consider what height will make the trailer sit as level as possible. Some fifth wheel hitches will sit lower than the bed rails of the truck, but if the trailer is clearing the bed rails around corners and is sitting level from front to back then the height of the fifth wheel hitch does not need to be changed.

You first need to get the correct Sidewinder on your trailer and see how level the trailer sits when hitched up before you go and try to change the height of the hitch.

I attached an FAQ article fifth wheel hitches and Sidewinders for you to check out also. You will need to know what pin box you have on the trailer to pick out the correct Sidewinder. There is a chart in the FAQ article I attached.

Typically hitches have a height adjustment range, but beyond that there are no adapters to give additional height to a hitch.

expert reply by: Jameson C