Ever dreamed of towing a big fifth-wheel camper with your trusty pickup truck? It’s a fantastic way to explore! But if you have a short bed truck, you might be wondering if it’s even possible. Many people think a short bed truck can’t handle a fifth-wheel hitch, and that’s a common worry.
The truth is, towing a fifth-wheel with a short bed truck can be tricky. You might run into problems with the trailer’s nose hitting your truck’s cab when you turn. This can cause damage and make towing feel unsafe. Choosing the right hitch is super important to avoid these headaches. There are so many different kinds, and it’s hard to know which one is best for your specific truck and trailer.
Don’t worry, though! This blog post is here to help. We’re going to break down the best fifth-wheel hitches made just for short bed trucks. You’ll learn what makes them special and how they solve those tricky cab-clearance issues. By the end of this post, you’ll have the knowledge you need to pick the perfect hitch, making your towing adventures safe and enjoyable.
So, let’s dive in and discover the top 5 fifth-wheel hitches that will make towing with your short bed truck a breeze!
Our Top 5 5Th Wheel Hitch For Short Bed Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 5Th Wheel Hitch For Short Bed Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of worrying about your trailer hitting your truck when you turn? The CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch is here to help! This hitch is designed specifically for trucks with short beds, giving you more room to maneuver. It slides out of the way, so you can make tighter turns without any problems. Plus, it makes hooking up your trailer a breeze.
What We Like:
- More Turning Room: It slides 12 inches, which gives short-bed trucks the clearance they need to avoid hitting the trailer when turning.
- Easy Hookup: The auto-latch feature means it locks itself when you start driving forward. You don’t have to get out and check it multiple times.
- Ready to Go: It comes already put together from the factory, so installation is quick and simple.
- Tough and Strong: It’s built to handle up to 20,000 pounds and is tested for safety.
- Weatherproof: It has a special coating to protect it from rust and the elements, so it will last a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Hitch Head Not Included: You’ll need to buy the hitch head separately, which is an extra cost.
Overall, the CURT S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch is a smart choice for anyone with a short-bed truck who wants safer and easier towing. It makes a big difference in how you can handle your trailer.
2. CURT 16574 S25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Rating: 8.9/10
If you have a short-bed truck and tow a fifth-wheel trailer, the CURT 16574 S25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch is a game-changer. This hitch gives you more room to maneuver when turning, preventing your trailer from bumping into your truck. It’s designed to make hooking up and towing easier and safer.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Safety: It slides 12 inches, giving you extra turning space and stopping trailer bumps.
- Auto-Latch Feature: Once you set the lever and drive forward, it automatically locks. This means you don’t have to get out of your truck multiple times to secure it.
- Factory Assembled: It comes ready to go right out of the box. Installation is quick and easy.
- Solid Strength: It’s built tough and can handle up to 25,000 lbs of trailer weight. It’s tested to strict standards.
- Dual-Coat Finish: The hitch has a special coating to protect it from rust and weather. This keeps it looking good and working well for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Head Not Included: You need to buy the fifth-wheel hitch head separately, which is an extra cost and step.
- Requires Rails: This hitch needs industry-standard fifth-wheel rails already installed in your truck bed.
The CURT S25 sliding hitch makes towing with a short-bed truck much more convenient and secure. Its smart design and durable build are a great investment for any serious tower.
3. CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of struggling to hitch your 5th wheel trailer with a short bed truck? The CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch is here to make your life easier. This hitch is designed for trucks with shorter beds, giving you more room to maneuver and turn without hitting your cab. It can handle heavy loads, up to 20,000 pounds, so you can tow your camper with confidence. Plus, it’s built to last and makes hooking up your trailer a breeze.
What We Like:
- The self-resetting handle makes coupling super simple. You just uncouple, and it’s ready to go again.
- The extra-wide head and patented head technology with poly-torsion inserts help reduce bumps and noise while you’re towing.
- A handy 3-position indicator tells you exactly if the hitch is coupled, uncoupled, or ready to tow.
- It’s tested and rated for a hefty 20,000 lbs. gross trailer weight, so it’s built for tough jobs.
- The slider feature gives you 12 inches of extra turning space, which is a lifesaver for short bed trucks.
- It fits any standard 5th wheel hitch rails, giving you lots of options.
What Could Be Improved:
- You’ll need to buy the rails and brackets separately, which is an extra step and cost.
Overall, the CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch is a fantastic upgrade for any short bed truck owner who pulls a 5th wheel trailer. It simplifies the hitching process and provides a smoother, safer towing experience.
4. CURT 16560 R16 5th Wheel Roller for Short Bed Trucks
Rating: 9.4/10
The CURT 16560 R16 5th Wheel Roller is a game-changer for anyone towing with a short-bed truck. It’s designed to give you more room to maneuver your fifth-wheel trailer. This roller system lets your hitch slide forward and backward, making tight turns much easier and preventing those dreaded trailer-to-cab bumps. It’s built tough and ready to handle serious towing jobs.
What We Like:
- Improved Turning Clearance: Provides 12 inches of travel, which is a huge help for short-bed trucks. No more worrying about hitting your cab when making turns.
- Easy Installation: It fits right into standard fifth-wheel base rails. You can install it yourself without much fuss.
- Versatile Compatibility: Works with most CURT fifth-wheel hitch heads and all CURT industry-standard base rails.
- Solid Strength: It’s rated for 16,000 lbs. This means it can handle a wide range of trailers.
- Durable Finish: A dual-coat finish protects against rust and wear, keeping it looking good and working well in any weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- Hitch Head Sold Separately: You need to buy the hitch head on its own, which is an extra cost to consider.
- Rail Compatibility Specifics: While it works with CURT rails, double-checking compatibility with other brands might be necessary.
If you have a short-bed truck and a fifth-wheel trailer, this CURT roller is a smart upgrade. It makes towing safer and less stressful.
5. CURT 16550 R20 5th Wheel Roller for Short Bed Trucks
Rating: 9.3/10
The CURT 16550 R20 5th Wheel Roller is a game-changer for anyone with a short-bed truck who loves to tow. This roller helps your fifth wheel trailer move forward and backward. This gives you more room to turn without hitting your truck’s cab. It’s a smart way to get more use out of your truck.
What We Like:
- TURNING CLEARANCE: It gives you 12 inches of extra room to turn. This is super helpful with short-bed trucks.
- EASY TO INSTALL: You can put it on most standard fifth wheel base rails quickly. It’s designed to fit right in.
- VERSATILE: It works with most CURT fifth wheel hitches and base rails. This makes it adaptable to your setup.
- SOLID STRENGTH: It can handle trailers up to 20,000 lbs. This means it’s ready for many different towing jobs.
- DUAL-COAT: A special coating protects it from rust and wear. This helps it last a long time in any weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- Hitch Head Sold Separately: You’ll need to buy the fifth wheel hitch head on its own. This is an extra step and cost.
- Compatibility Limitations: While versatile, it’s best to double-check compatibility with non-CURT components to ensure a perfect fit.
Overall, the CURT 16550 R20 5th Wheel Roller makes towing easier and safer for short-bed trucks. It’s a strong and well-built accessory that improves your truck’s towing ability.
Choosing the Best 5th Wheel Hitch for Your Short Bed Truck
Towing a fifth-wheel trailer with a short bed truck can be tricky. You need the right hitch to avoid hitting the cab. This guide will help you find the perfect 5th wheel hitch for your short bed truck. We’ll look at what makes a good hitch and what to watch out for.
Key Features to Look For
1. Turning Radius and Clearance
This is the most important feature for short bed trucks. You need a hitch that lets your trailer turn sharply without hitting your truck’s cab. Look for hitches with a good turning radius. Some hitches have special designs or sliding features to give you more room.
2. Weight Capacity
Make sure the hitch can handle the weight of your fifth-wheel trailer. Check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer. The hitch’s weight capacity must be higher than your trailer’s GVWR. Don’t forget the tongue weight, which is the downward force on the hitch. The hitch should also have a higher tongue weight capacity.
3. Ease of Installation and Removal
Some hitches are easier to install and remove than others. If you plan to take the hitch out when you’re not towing, look for one that’s not too heavy or complicated. Quick-release levers or modular designs can make this easier.
4. Adjustability
The best hitches offer some adjustability. You might need to adjust the height of the hitch to match your trailer’s level. Some hitches let you adjust the fore-and-aft position, which can also help with clearance.
5. Durability and Build Quality
A good hitch is built to last. It should be made from strong materials and have a solid construction. Look for welds that are clean and strong. The moving parts should operate smoothly.
Important Materials
Most 5th wheel hitches are made from high-strength steel. This material is chosen for its durability and ability to withstand heavy loads. The steel is usually powder-coated to prevent rust and corrosion, which keeps the hitch looking good and working well for a long time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- Robust Construction: Thick steel and strong welds make a hitch more reliable.
- Smooth Operation: Hinges and locking mechanisms that work without sticking improve the user experience.
- Good Finish: A quality powder coat protects against weather damage and wear.
- Reputable Brand: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer support.
Reducing Quality
- Thin Materials: Cheaper hitches might use thinner steel, which can bend or break under stress.
- Poor Welds: Sloppy or weak welds are a major safety concern.
- Rough Finish: A poor coating can lead to rust and make moving parts stiff.
- Complex Mechanisms: Overly complicated designs can be prone to failure.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a 5th wheel hitch with a short bed truck is all about making towing safe and easy. A good hitch means you can confidently maneuver your trailer. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your truck and trailer won’t collide.
Many people use these hitches for camping, hauling, or even for their business. Whether you’re going on a weekend getaway or a long road trip, the right hitch makes the journey much smoother. A hitch designed for short beds allows you to enjoy the benefits of towing a fifth wheel without the worry of damaging your truck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the biggest challenge when using a 5th wheel hitch with a short bed truck?
A: The biggest challenge is preventing the trailer from hitting the truck’s cab during turns. This is why specific hitches are needed.
Q: What does “turning radius” mean for a hitch?
A: Turning radius refers to how sharply your trailer can turn without touching your truck’s cab. A better turning radius means more maneuverability.
Q: How do I know what weight capacity I need?
A: You need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your fifth-wheel trailer. The hitch’s capacity must be higher than your trailer’s GVWR.
Q: Are all 5th wheel hitches compatible with short bed trucks?
A: No, not all hitches are designed for short bed trucks. You need to look for hitches specifically made to offer extra clearance.
Q: What is a “slider” hitch?
A: A slider hitch has a mechanism that allows the trailer to slide forward or backward. This gives you more turning clearance when you need it.
Q: How much does a good 5th wheel hitch for a short bed truck typically cost?
A: Prices can vary, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500 or more for a quality hitch. The price often depends on features and brand.
Q: Can I install a 5th wheel hitch myself?
A: Some hitches are designed for DIY installation, while others might be easier with professional help. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Q: What is “tongue weight”?
A: Tongue weight is the amount of weight your trailer puts down on the hitch when it’s connected. It’s an important factor for safety and stability.
Q: How important is the hitch’s material?
A: The material is very important. High-strength steel is used to ensure the hitch is strong enough to handle heavy loads safely.
Q: Where can I find reviews for specific 5th wheel hitches?
A: You can find reviews on manufacturer websites, online RV forums, and retail websites that sell hitches. Reading reviews from other short bed truck owners is very helpful.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!