Is a Sidewinder Required to Tow a 5th Wheel Trailer with a 2007 GMC Sierra with 5-1/2 Foot Bed

Question:

I recently went to have a fifth wheel hitch installed in my truck. The gentleman told me that do to my bed size the only way I can tow was to purchase a sidewinder hitch? When I went to do the walk around on my fifth wheel I noticed it has a long neck hitch that looks similar in length to the sidewinder hitch..that is apparently made for short bed trucks. Any thoughts recommendations? Thanks

asked by: Arthur B

Expert Reply:

You likely have an extended pin box on the trailer but it may not be enough to make 90 degree turns without hitting the trailer and the cab of your 2007 GMC Sierra together. But there is an easy way to figure it out.

Step 1: Measure from the center of the trailer king pin back to the front of the trailer overhang. Write that down because it will be needed later.

Step 2: Once a hitch is installed, the centerline of the hitch will be approximately 1-1/2 inches forward of the center of the rear axle. So find that spot in your truck bed. Measure from there to the back of the truck cab. Then you will add that first measurement in. Write down the result.

Step 3: Measure the width of the front of the trailer (overhang). Divide by 2 to get half.

The measurement you wrote down at the end of step 2 needs to be at least 4 inches greater than half the width of the trailer overhang (step 3) to safely make 90 degree turns.

If it is not greater than 4 inches then you will need a Sidewinder. A Sidewinder moves the pivot point of a trailer back 22 inches. To determine if there is a Sidewinder that fits your trailer you will need the manufacturer and model number off the plate or sticker on the pin box. Then you can use the help article I have linked to determine if there is a Sidewinder that will fit.

Please note that with a Sidewinder you will need to use a fixed 5th wheel hitch, not a slider.

expert reply by: Michael H