5th Wheel Hitch Recommendation for GMC Short Box Truck Pulling Trailer with Extended Pinbox

Question:

I have GMC short box truck. Need to know how to pick 5th wheel hitch. the trailer I have has the coupling extended ahead of it. Do I need the square tube slider or the regular stationary hitch. Is there a way to measure so when jackknifing trailer I dont hit the cab?? Thank you

asked by: Gp

Expert Reply:

Short box trucks are a challenge for 5th wheel towing and require either a sliding 5th wheel hitch or a specialized replacement pin box called a Sidewinder (along with a fixed hitch) in order to safely pull a 5th wheel. A Sidewinder moves the trailer's pivot point back by 22-inches while a sliding hitch allows you to release the slide mechanism for making low-speed turns. Both of these methods provide for better turning clearance between the trailer and cab of the truck. I have linked for you several articles that cover 5th wheel towing in short bed trucks, including clearance measurements.

The hitch you referenced, # RP30047 from Reese, is a fixed-type (non-sliding) hitch rated for 16K lbs.

In order to recommend a 5th wheel hitch and install kit I will need to know more about your GMC truck: model year, cab style, bed length and bed type (step-side, flare-side, or regular). I also need to know your trailer's gross weight rating (GVWR). With this information I can make specific suggestions for a hitch and installation kit.

If you want to consider a Sidewinder pin box instead of a sliding hitch I will need to know the brand and part number from your current pin box. This information is usually noted on a safety sticker on the pin box.

expert reply by: Adam R