Need to know safe clearance!
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Senior User
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Need to know safe clearance!
I am hoping this is the correct forum to get some input on my dilemma, I just bought a used 5th wheeler and installed the receiver in the bed of my truck which is a 2003, 6.0L, Lariat with a crew cab and short bed. The clearance between the trailer and the cab is 30". My concern is: will the trailer hit the cab when making turns?
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Thanks kw5413. The receiver is centered over the rear axle. The recommendation was that the load should sit above the axle centerline, preferrably 2 inches in front, which was not an option with this truck.
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Be carefull as you most likely will make contact on a hard turn. If you trailer does not have one already you might be able to install a extented hitch pin on your trailer. I have seen many trailers with them to heip with the problem of a shortbed truck.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Huntington Indiana
first check with a local rv dealer then go to www.campingworld.com this is the link to the tenn. store http://www.campingworld.com/stores/stores.cfm?store=40 The reese hitch has a slider available to slide the hitch back 9".
Last edited by bigredtruckmi; Feb 26, 2006 at 07:29 PM.
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bigredtruckmi, the slider is available at campingworld and it will work when getting into tight spaces, but my issue is: can I drive the thing normally on the highway without striking the cab. The slider if slid back when used for normal towing will place the load too far back creating problems with the loading of the truck. If I can tow with the slider forward safely, this maybe a viable option. Thanks!
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Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Huntington Indiana
There are some hitches designed to automatically slide back when you turn. Found it and here is the link http://rvwholesalers.com/catalog/product.php?productid=326&cat=0&page=1
Kind of pricey but you would have no worries.
With the reese hitch you should be OK until you get to aboout a 45 degree angle. I would really watch it closely. Can you get a fifth wheel extension for the trailer? Some models you can but not all.
A friend of mine has a reese hitch with the slider option and he says just to be sure it is locked in place and it will stay there where locked. He put a rubber strap on the handle to be sure.
Kind of pricey but you would have no worries.
With the reese hitch you should be OK until you get to aboout a 45 degree angle. I would really watch it closely. Can you get a fifth wheel extension for the trailer? Some models you can but not all.
A friend of mine has a reese hitch with the slider option and he says just to be sure it is locked in place and it will stay there where locked. He put a rubber strap on the handle to be sure.
Last edited by bigredtruckmi; Feb 26, 2006 at 08:30 PM.
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From: SW Montana
Pulling, you won't have any trouble with hitting the cab. Backing up is when problems start. It is very easy to oversteer while backing and strike the cab. Due to the length of the truck and trailer, and where you may choose to park it, you may find manuevering the trailer increases the chances of interference. Like mentioned, get a slider, very good investment.
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when i had a short bed i looked at getting that hitch due to auto slide. I loved the way it works but you definitely pay for that one. I just wasnt in the position to get a 5er yet and ended up getting my 05 LB and am now hunting for trailers again.....