If you drive a short-bed truck, finding the right 5th wheel hitch can feel tricky. Standard hitches often cause the trailer to hit your cab during sharp turns. Luckily, special hitches exist to fix this problem. The best options use sliding technology or offset designs for safe clearance. This article reviews the top five hitches that offer easy turning, simple use, and strong towing for short-bed owners.
1. Pulliam 2700 15K Superglide Short Bed Hitch
- Weight: 177 lbs (80.28 kg)
- Capacity: 15,000 lbs GTW
- Mounting: Industry standard base rails
- Design: Fully automatic sliding action
The Pulliam 2700 Superglide is a premium solution specifically engineered for short bed truck owners who want to avoid the hassle of manual sliders. Its fully automatic sliding mechanism moves the trailer away from the cab during turns without any driver intervention. This eliminates the risk of human error and ensures you have the necessary clearance for 90-degree maneuvers in tight campgrounds or gas stations.
Built for durability, this hitch fits standard base rails, making it a versatile addition to most truck setups. While it is quite heavy, its robust construction provides a stable and secure connection for trailers up to 15,000 lbs. It is a set-it-and-forget-it system that prioritizes safety and convenience, allowing you to focus on the road rather than worrying about your cab clearance.
- Pros:
- Fully automatic sliding mechanism
- Eliminates cab strike risks
- Fits industry standard rails
- Cons:
- Very heavy unit to install
- Lower 15K weight capacity
2. CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch
- Slide Travel: 12 inches of displacement
- Capacity: 20,000 lbs GTW
- Locking: Automatic auto-latch lever
- Finish: Carbide black powder coat
The CURT S20 slider offers exceptional safety for short bed trucks by providing 12 inches of rearward travel. This extra displacement is vital for creating turning clearance, ensuring the trailer nose doesn’t obstruct the truck cab during sharp pivots. The unit features an auto-latch mechanism that automatically locks the slider into place as you drive forward, significantly reducing the number of times you need to exit the vehicle.
For longevity, CURT uses a dual-coat finish consisting of a rust-resistant A-coat topped with a carbide black powder coat. It arrives fully assembled from the factory, which streamlines the setup process significantly. Rated at 20,000 lbs, it provides solid strength and reliable performance, though it does require a compatible CURT hitch head to be purchased separately to complete the system.
- Pros:
- Generous 12-inch slide travel
- Factory assembled for easy setup
- High weather and rust resistance
- Cons:
- Hitch head must be bought separately
- Requires industry standard rails
3. CURT 16574 S25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch
- Capacity: 25,000 lbs GTW rating
- Travel: 12-inch rearward displacement
- Testing: SAE J2638 specification standards
- Mounting: Industry standard 5th wheel rails
Engineered for the heaviest loads, the CURT S25 slider is a powerhouse for short bed towing. It offers 12 inches of crucial clearance, allowing for full-range turning without the fear of trailer-to-cab contact. Like its siblings, it features the auto-latch system, which locks the hitch securely once the lever is set and the truck moves forward. This makes it a highly efficient choice for frequent travelers moving heavy campers.
The unit is rigorously tested to meet SAE J2638 safety specifications, ensuring it can handle a massive 25,000 lbs gross trailer weight. It features the same high-quality dual-coat finish for maximum protection against the elements. Because it ships fully assembled, you can drop it into your existing standard rails and attach your chosen hitch head to begin towing almost immediately with confidence and ease.
- Pros:
- Massive 25,000 lbs load capacity
- Smooth 12-inch sliding action
- Very durable powder coat finish
- Cons:
- Heavier base unit than S20
- Head assembly not included
4. CURT 16651 A25 5th Wheel Slider Hitch
- GTW Capacity: 25,000 lbs
- Articulation: Patented head with cast yoke
- Safety: 3-position coupling indicator
- Clearance: 12-inch roller slide travel
The CURT 16651 A25 is a complete, high-end system that combines the powerful A-series head with a smooth-action roller for short bed trucks. The head features poly-torsion inserts that effectively dampen noise and shock loads, providing a much smoother ride than standard metal-on-metal hitches. Its extra-wide head and self-resetting handle make the coupling process incredibly simple, even when working on slightly unlevel ground at a campsite.
This kit includes industry-standard base rails, offering a comprehensive setup for your truck bed. The integrated 3-position indicator provides clear visual confirmation of your coupling status, showing if the system is uncoupled, coupled, or ready to tow. With 12 inches of rearward travel and a 25,000 lbs capacity, it is the ultimate choice for short bed owners seeking luxury towing performance and maximum safety.
- Pros:
- Excellent shock and noise damping
- Includes high-quality base rails
- Easy-to-read coupling indicator
- Cons:
- Premium price for full system
- Brackets sold separately
5. CURT 16611 E16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch
- Capacity: 16,000 lbs GTW
- Pivot: Dual-pivoting 10-degree head
- Travel: 12 inches of rearward travel
- Vibration: Anti-rattle skid plate included
The CURT 16611 E16 is an excellent mid-range option that balances affordability with essential sliding functionality. Designed for trailers up to 16,000 lbs, it features a dual-pivoting head that allows for 10 degrees of lateral movement, ensuring a stable tow even on uneven roads. The automatic locking coupler makes hitching up more secure, while the anti-rattle skid plate helps keep the ride quiet by reducing vibration at the coupling point.
This system comes complete with both the roller and base rails, providing 12 inches of travel for short bed clearance. It is a great value for RVers who don’t need the massive 25K capacity but still require a reliable slider for their 6-foot truck bed. The E16 is easy to operate and provides a much smoother experience than entry-level fixed hitches, making it a favorite for weekend warriors.
- Pros:
- Affordable full system with rails
- Smooth dual-pivoting head action
- Effective anti-rattle features
- Cons:
- Limited to 16,000 lbs capacity
- Basic design compared to A-series
6. CURT 16570 R24 5th Wheel Roller
- Capacity: 24,000 lbs GTW rating
- Travel: 12 inches of sliding travel
- Compatibility: Industry standard rails and heads
- Finish: Durable carbide black powder coat
The CURT R24 roller is a standalone sliding base designed to upgrade your existing fixed hitch into a short bed-friendly setup. It provides 12 inches of rearward movement, giving you the turning radius needed to prevent trailer-to-cab collisions. This roller is remarkably strong, supporting up to 24,000 lbs, and is compatible with most CURT hitch heads and any industry-standard base rails, offering a versatile path for system upgrades.
Installation is straightforward, as it drops directly into standard 5th wheel rails. The dual-coat finish ensures it stays protected from rust and wear even when left in the truck bed. This is an ideal component for those who already own a high-quality CURT hitch head but have switched to a short bed truck and need a reliable sliding solution without replacing the entire assembly.
- Pros:
- High 24K weight capacity
- Versatile head and rail compatibility
- Saves money by using existing heads
- Cons:
- Roller base only (no head/rails)
- Adds significant height to the hitch
How to Choose 5th Wheel Hitches For Short Bed
Towing a 5th wheel trailer with a short bed truck presents a unique physical challenge: the lack of distance between the truck cab and the trailer nose. In a standard 8-foot long bed truck, there is plenty of room for the trailer to pivot. However, in short bed trucks (typically 5.5 to 6.5 feet), a sharp turn can cause the trailer to strike and shatter the truck’s rear window or dent the cab. Choosing the right hitch is the only way to mitigate this risk.
Understanding the Slider Mechanism
The core feature of any short bed 5th wheel hitch is the sliding mechanism. This allows the coupling point—where the trailer kingpin attaches—to move rearward toward the tailgate during low-speed maneuvers. This movement creates a wider gap between the trailer and the cab, allowing for 90-degree turns that would otherwise be impossible.
Automatic vs. Manual Sliders
When selecting a hitch, you must decide between automatic and manual operation. This choice impacts both your budget and your convenience on the road.
Automatic Sliders
Automatic sliders, like the Pulliam Superglide, utilize a cam or gear system that automatically slides the hitch back as the truck turns. You never have to leave the cab or remember to flip a lever. These are the safest option because they eliminate human error, though they are generally more expensive and much heavier than manual units.
Manual Sliders
Manual sliders require the driver to exit the truck, unlock a lever, and lock the truck’s brakes while pulling forward to “slide” the hitch into the maneuvering position. Once the turn is complete, you must repeat the process to lock it back into the towing position for highway speeds. These are more affordable but can be a hassle in the rain or heavy traffic.
Weight Capacity and GTW Ratings
Your hitch must be rated to handle the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) of your loaded camper. Common ratings include 16K, 20K, and 25K lbs. It is a best practice to choose a hitch that exceeds your trailer’s fully loaded weight by at least 10-20%. Overloading a hitch can lead to structural failure or poor braking performance. Always check your truck’s specific towing capacity in conjunction with the hitch rating.
Mounting Systems and Base Rails
How the hitch attaches to your truck is just as important as the hitch itself. There are two primary ways to mount these systems:
Industry Standard Rails (ISR)
Most sliding hitches are designed to drop into industry-standard base rails. These rails are bolted through the truck bed into the frame. The advantage of ISR is that they are universal; if you sell your truck, you can often keep the hitch and simply install new rails in the next vehicle.
Puck Systems
Many modern heavy-duty trucks (Ford, GM, Ram) come with a factory-installed “towing prep package” called a puck system. This consists of four or five holes in the bed. If your truck has this, you should look for a slider hitch specifically designed for your truck’s puck system to avoid needing adapter rails, which can add height and weight.
Articulation and Ride Quality
A good hitch should do more than just hold the trailer; it should improve the ride. Look for heads with multi-directional articulation (side-to-side and front-to-back). This makes it much easier to hitch up on uneven ground. Premium models like the CURT A-series use poly-torsion inserts or rubber bumpers to dampen “chucking”—the annoying jerking motion felt when the trailer pushes and pulls against the truck on the highway.
Clearance and Height Adjustment
Short bed trucks often sit higher than older models, especially 4WD versions. The best 5th wheel hitches for short beds offer adjustable height settings. This allows you to level your trailer while maintaining at least 6 inches of clearance between the trailer overhang and your truck’s bed rails. A level trailer is essential for even tire wear and stable handling.
Material and Durability
Since these hitches are exposed to the elements, the finish matters. Look for dual-coat finishes that combine liquid A-coats with powder coatings. This prevents rust from forming in the sliding tracks, which could cause the hitch to seize up over time. Check the rollers or slider tubes; they should be made of heavy-duty steel and be easily greaseable to maintain smooth movement.
The Importance of Installation
Unless you are a highly skilled mechanic, professional installation is recommended for 5th wheel hitches. The brackets must be perfectly aligned with the truck’s frame to ensure the weight is distributed correctly. If the rails are even slightly crooked, a sliding hitch may bind or fail to lock properly, creating a major safety hazard.
Safety Indicators
Modern hitches often include visual indicators to confirm a secure connection. A 3-position color-coded indicator (Green/Yellow/Red) can be a lifesaver, allowing you to confirm the kingpin is locked without crawling under the trailer. Ensure the handle is ergonomic and provides a positive lock that can be secured with a padlock for theft prevention and extra safety on the road.
