16K B&W Patriot Hitch and Custom Rail Kit Recommendation for 2013 GMC Sierra Crew Cab Short Box

Question:

I have a 2013 GMC Sierra Crew Cab short box 58 and will be purchasing an ultralight fifth wheel. This fifth wheel is fiberglass in construction and is 88inch wide, 21foot long and 5500lb gross weight. It is specifically designed for short bed vehicles with a slightly longer pin pox. I really like the Patriot 16K as I can move the hitch head horizontally up to 4inch if needed. I am looking for a rail kit with custom brackets to mount to my frame. B and W sells a universal kit, but I am looking for something more specific, like the super rail kit #3117 made by PullRite. Will this Super rail kit work on the Patriot Hitch? Any other suggestions?

asked by: R M

Expert Reply:

I recommend going with the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Outboard Installation Kit, # RP56007-53, for your 2013 GMC Sierra Crew Cab Short Box. These custom outboard designed brackets reduce the amount of drilling during installation, ensures simple access to the mounting points, and would allow you to use the B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, # BWRVK3200, that you are interested in.

Although trailer manufacturers have changed some of their designs to accommodate the short bed trucks, without having access to the truck and trailer, I would not be able to guarantee that you will have enough clearance when executing a 90-degree turn while using the Patriot hitch and the longer pin box. When someone plans to tow with a short bed truck, I always recommend looking into replacing your current pinbox with a Sidewinder. Using a Sidewinder shifts the pivot point of the king pin to allow for additional clearance. I have attached an article which is loaded with information on the Sidewinder.

Since we do not carry the PullRite product that you mentioned, I do not have any information on whether it would be compatible with the Patriot hitch.

expert reply by: Leah S