If you’ve got a short bed truck and you’re wondering Can You Tow a Fifth Wheel with a Short Bed the good news is, yes, you can. But before you start hitching up, there are a few key things you need to know that will save your truck (and your sanity).
Short bed trucks typically 5.5 to 6.5 feet in bed length don’t offer as much clearance between the cab and the front of a fifth wheel trailer compared to long bed trucks. That means tight turns can cause the trailer to hit the truck cab unless you’ve got the right setup.
Short Bed vs Long Bed: What’s the Difference When Towing a Fifth Wheel?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand the pros and cons of using a short bed truck for fifth wheel towing:
| Feature | Short Bed (5.5–6.5 ft) | Long Bed (8 ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Turning Clearance | Requires sliding hitch | More natural clearance |
| Hitch Cost | Higher (sliding hitch required) | Lower (fixed hitch possible) |
| Maneuverability | Easier daily driving | Harder in tight spots |
| Bed Space w/ Hitch | Limited with hitch installed | More usable space |
| Ideal For | Occasional & mid-size fifth wheels | Full-time RVers, larger trailers |
Yes, You Can Tow a Fifth Wheel with a Short Bed
The key is understanding that while towing a fifth wheel with a short bed truck is possible, it requires the right equipment.
Most importantly, you’ll need a sliding fifth wheel hitch. These hitches allow the connection point to move backward during tight turns, giving your trailer more room to clear your truck’s cab.
Sliding Hitch Options: What You Should Know
There are two types of sliding hitches:
- Manual slider hitches, which require you to stop and pull a lever before making a tight turn. These are more affordable but require extra effort.
- Automatic slider hitches, which move automatically when you turn saving time and frustration. These are perfect if you’re towing solo or frequently park in tight spaces.
Choosing the Right Fifth Wheel for a Short Bed Truck
Some fifth wheel trailers are now designed specifically with short bed compatibility in mind. These trailers may come with:
- Rounded front caps for better turning clearance
- Offset kingpins that push the hitch point further back
- Tapered front profiles that allow tighter turns
Real-World Advice for Short Bed Fifth Wheel Towing
Tons of people successfully tow a fifth wheel with a short bed truck every year so don’t feel like you need to trade in your truck.
But it’s smart to do your homework, invest in the right gear, and avoid trying to “make it work” without proper clearance or hitch equipment.
Towing Checklist for Short Bed Trucks
Here’s what you’ll want to make sure you have before hitting the road:
✅ Sliding fifth wheel hitch (manual or automatic)
✅ 7-pin trailer connector
✅ Trailer brake controller
✅ Bed mat or liner for hitch base
✅ Suspension upgrades (like airbags) if towing near max capacity
✅ A fifth wheel trailer with a rounded or short-bed-friendly front cap
Can I tow a fifth wheel with a half-ton short bed truck?
Yes, but only if the trailer is lightweight and falls within your truck’s payload and towing limits. Always verify the specs and use a sliding hitch.
What is the minimum bed length to tow a fifth wheel?
While 6.5 feet is often considered the safe minimum, some trailers can be towed with a 5.5-foot bed if the right hitch and trailer design are used.
Do I need a special hitch for a short bed truck?
Absolutely. A sliding fifth wheel hitch is essential for safe turning clearance.
Can I use a gooseneck adapter with a short bed truck?
Some do, but it’s not recommended without verifying turning clearance. Most setups still require a sliding mechanism or an offset ball to avoid cab damage.
Is it worth towing a fifth wheel with a short bed or should I upgrade to a long bed?
If you’re towing occasionally or hauling mid-size fifth wheels, a short bed with the right gear is fine. For full-time RV life or heavy loads, a long bed is often more practical.
Final Thoughts
Yes you can tow a fifth wheel with a short bed truck.
But the right hitch setup and compatible trailer design make all the difference. A sliding hitch (preferably automatic), a fifth wheel designed for short beds, and solid awareness of your truck’s towing limits are all essential.
If you’re shopping for a new truck or fifth wheel, or want to explore the best towing configurations, check out more in-depth breakdowns on TruckReportGeeks.com.
Sources
Fifth Wheel Magazine – “Can You Pull a Fifth Wheel With a Shortbed Truck?”
This article explains how to tow a fifth wheel with a short bed truck, including the use of a Sidewinder hitch and a formula for calculating turning clearance. www.fifthwheelmagazine.com
Camper Report – “Towing a Fifth Wheel with a Short Bed Truck: All you need to know”
Published on June 12, 2019, this source provides a comprehensive overview of towing a fifth wheel with a short bed truck, covering weight limits, hitch types, and maneuverability considerations. camperreport.com