Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for a 2015 Ford F350 Short Bed with Hitch Prep
Question:
I am looking for the recommended fifth wheel hitch to be used with the factory 5th wheel prep install puckinch under rail already installed. The Heartland 5th wheel trailer I have has a GVWR of 16,000 with a hitch weight of about 2,300 lbs. Dry weight is about 12,500 lbs. The manufacturer claims an 88 degree turning radius due pin desgin and front cap shape. What hitch do you recommended for this set up?
asked by: Phil D
Expert Reply:
The Reese Elite Series Pre-Assembled 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider # RP30144 that you referenced would be the perfect hitch for you to use on your 2015 Ford F350 crew cab short bed.
Since you have a short bed you would need a slider to make tight turns, this hitch has a slider.
This hitch also has 18,000 lbs of capacity which would be more than enough for your trailer.
Although your trailer claims to have a nose that will allow for tight turns without a slider I would still recommend a slider in case you tow a different trailer at some point or you find out that claim doesn't hold any water.
If you find out you don't need the slider with your trailer you could just simply leave it in the forward, "tow" position all the time and you would be set. But it's better to be safe than sorry.
