Do You Need A Long Bed Truck To Tow A Fifth-Wheel
You don’t strictly need a long bed truck to tow a fifth-wheel trailer, but it’s highly recommended for most setups. A long bed typically 8 feet provides better clearance between the truck cab and the fifth-wheel’s overhang, reducing the risk of the trailer hitting the cab during tight turns.
With a short bed (6.5 feet or less), you’ll often need a sliding fifth-wheel hitch or an extended pin box to gain that clearance, which adds cost and complexity.
Some smaller fifth-wheels, under 30 feet, can work with a short bed and a fixed hitch, but for larger trailers especially over 35 feet a long bed makes towing safer and simpler.
It ultimately depends on the trailer’s size, hitch setup, and your turning needs, so check your truck’s towing specs and the fifth-wheel’s dimensions.
Let’s discuss the best ways to tow them, whether you own a short bed or long bed pickup truck as their is always the question do you need a long bed truck to tow a fifth-wheel.
Understanding Fifth Wheel Towing
- Fifth-wheel trailers attach to a special hitch mounted in the center of a truck’s bed. This is located directly over the rear axle for optimal weight distribution and towing stability.
- The trailer’s overhang extends over the front portion of the truck bed.
Short Bed Trucks
- Short bed trucks (generally under 6 feet) can tow fifth wheels, but require extra considerations.
- Clearance: Ensure enough space between the trailer and truck cab during turns.
- Solutions:
- Slider hitches: Manually slide back for turning clearance, then reposition for straight driving.
- Sidewinder hitches: Reposition the trailer’s pivot point for more turning room.
- Trailer design: Look for fifth wheels with front caps designed for short bed trucks.
Long Bed Trucks
- Long bed trucks generally offer hassle-free fifth-wheel towing.
- Benefits: Ample clearance without extra hitches, making for easier maneuvering.
| Feature | Short Bed Truck | Long Bed Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Requirements | May need slider hitch or sidewinder hitch | Usually no special hitch required |
| Turning Clearance | Limited clearance, increased risk of contact | Ample clearance, easier turning |
| Maneuverability | Requires more careful maneuvering | Generally easier to maneuver |
| Trailer Compatibility | Requires trailers designed for short beds | More versatile for different trailer lengths |
| Overall Experience | Can be more complex, may need extra equipment | Simpler setup and towing experience |
Other Considerations
- Truck’s towing capacity: The single most important factor. Find this in your manual or online. Never exceed it, regardless of bed length.
- Dually trucks: While not always essential, they offer superior stability when towing very large fifth wheels.
Matching Your Truck and Camper
- Truck towing capacity: Find this in your owner’s manual or by searching online.
- Trailer weight: Look for the fifth wheel’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
- Compatibility: Ensure the trailer’s GVWR is less than or equal to your truck’s towing capacity.
Sources
- Trailer Life: https://www.trailerlife.com/ (Search for “fifth wheel towing bed length”)
- Truck Trend: https://www.trucktrend.com/ (Search for “fifth wheel towing bed length”)
- Go RVing: https://gorving.com/ (They have resources specifically for fifth-wheel owners)
- RVIA (RV Industry Association): https://www.rvia.org/ (Look for technical guides or educational articles)
- Ford: https://www.ford.com/
- Chevrolet: https://www.chevrolet.com/
- Ram: https://www.ramtrucks.com/
In Summary
While both short bed and long bed trucks can tow fifth wheels, understanding the key differences will help you make the best decision.
Long beds generally provide a simpler setup and greater maneuverability, but short beds are perfectly viable with the right equipment and trailer choice.
Always prioritize your truck’s towing capacity for safe and enjoyable travel.
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