Here's a question for you owners of shortbed Fords towing 5th wheels: Would you rate a sliding 5th wheel hitch a convenience or a necessity, keeping in mind that the trailer would have an extended pin box? I drive a '97 F-150 extended cab 4x4, 4.6, 3.55's, factory towing package. The wife and I are looking at buying our first (late 90's, used, 18'-20') 5th wheel. The majority of the short ones we're looking at come with extended pin boxes, and about 1/3 are offering the hitches as well. Would I be better off taking the "free" hitch (although I know I'll probably have to get rails and brackets), or setting myself up with a new sliding, or even fixed, hitch.

Thanks-
Todd

 

I don't have the sliding hitch but my 1987 21' Prowler does have the extended hitch. So far I've never been in a position where I've needed one but I am careful when backing and always watch to make sure the trailer doesn't take out the back window. I also watch the distance between the bedrails and 5'ver as I only have about 5" of clearance. I could set the hitch higher but then the trailer would be way off level. I have a Hijacker hitch that is non-sliding but can buy the rails to make it slide if I wanted. Maybe the hitches they are offering you can also be converted to sliding. Enjoy the hunt for your trailer

 

Thanks George.
Where's the center of your hitch in relation to your axle: centered over the axle or slightly forward?

 

Where I park my 5er, the house is curbside and I have to back in from the right uphill. I use my slider at home and had to use it once in a year to back up a hill to a spot that is perched up un a little mound. I believe the slider to be necessary in my case. The 5er responds more quickly because it puts the pivot point further from the axle. I also believe there is less chance of impacting the bedrails.

I have read many at RV.NET forums that don’t have one and are just careful. Also some have stated tht they popped the rear window and damaged the cab. I can happen.

One thing, I think the further forward you put the hitch the better tow. Certainly above or forward of the rear axle. Using this idea, I would think being careful and using the slide could result in a better tow. Hope this helps.

 

Thanks to both of you (and Nash in the other thread) for your insight.
Iamgeeky: RV.NET is a great site I hadn't seen yet, thanks for the head-up on that one. I'll be spending a good amount of time there in the next few days.

 

Sorry hadn't been to this site for awhile so I missed answering your post. My Hijacker hitch is 3/4" ahead of the axle as per their installation instructions. Reese puts their hitch 1.5" ahead of the axle, for detalis go to Hijacker and Reese. Hope its not too late