Clearance Concerns For Fifth Wheel Trailer With 2015 Ford F-350 With Tow Package

Question:

I need a good hitch at a decent price for my ford f350 with the prep package. Is this a good hitch and will I be able to tell if the jaws are locked in. My fifth wheel is 12000lbs. I was going to buy the adapter and use my existing hitch but from the ground to the top of the tailgate when opened is 41.5 inches and when my fifthwheel is level from ground to the kingpin is 54.5 inches I dont think it will work

asked by: Robert T

Expert Reply:

The height of the sides of the bed on your 2015 Ford F-350 is a critical measurement you will want to know. since you said the height of the bed when the tail gate is down is 41.5 inches, and the height of your fifth wheel trailer king pin is 54.5 inches, that will only give you 13 inches from the bed to the king pin.

The weight of the fifth wheel trailer when it is hooked up will cause the back of the truck to drop a bit and the amount will depend on the weight.

I spoke with my contact at Curt and they told me that the part # C16515-16017, you referenced has a height adjustment from 13 to 17 inches, They said they have not have any complaints about the Ford bed sides being too tall or interfering with installation of a fifth wheel setup.

You need a minimum of 6 inches clearance from the top of the bed sides to the bottom of the trailer. Many fifth wheel pin boxes are adjustable as well, so you may be able to gain additional clearance there.

I have attached a helpful article that you can check out.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L