If you are a first-time trucker, choosing the correct 5th wheel hitch can seem like a challenging task. And the task can get a bit more complicated if you own a short bed truck. However, there are plenty of options for choosing a 5th wheel hitch variety suitable for such vehicles.
Below is a list of the top design varieties for the 5 best 5th wheel hitches for short bed truck. So, before you can make an informed decision about which one to buy, it would be helpful to know a little about each type.
Major 5th wheel hitch designs
Automatic slider
For the smoothest possible towing operation, an automatic sliding 5th wheel hitch is the top choice. Such hitches require no input from humans and can effortlessly move by themselves to accommodate during sharp turns. It can also rerun and return to its original position once the turn is complete.
However, remember that these types of hitches can be pretty expensive owing to these incredible features. But if you have enough money to spare, they are a good investment option.
Manual slider
With manual slider 5th wheel hitches, truckers have the choice to make physical adjustments before trying challenging maneuvers. It can help easily navigate the short bed truck through rough terrains, enabling drivers to adjust it before every tricky turn. It would be good to remember that making the correct adjustment is critical to avoid untoward incidents on the road.
Fixed slider
Arguably more robust than other 5th wheel hitches, fixed sliders stay in place throughout the ride, just like their name suggests. The only thing you will need to consider when installing it on a short bed truck is that you may need an extension. It will boost clearance, reducing the chances of the RV and the truck cab colliding during dangerous, unpredictable turns.
How to choose the correct 5th wheel hitch
With the RV market expected to grow at around 5.8% by the end of 2024, it can be safely assumed that a lot more folks will soon invest in this innovative vehicle.
Renting a 5th wheel makes more sense for people who do not wish to buy a whole new RV. Below are things you must consider when browsing the 5 best 5th wheel hitches for a short bed truck.
- Capacity – One of the top things you should think of when buying a hitch is how much weight it can handle. Ideally, the hitch must weigh at least as much as the camper in question. To be even safer, you can get a high-capacity hitch that can handle extra loads.
- Company – Experienced campers know to check the product even if it isn’t branded. But if you are new to this and unsure which 5th wheel hitch to buy, the safest bet is to pick one from a top, reliable brand.
- Installation – While you may have the option to get the hitch professionally installed, it may be a costly affair. So, consider one that allows you to install it yourself without any hassles.
Besides the above points, consider the price as well. While it is not essential to buy highly expensive 5th wheel hitches, it isn’t wise to invest in cheap ones either. The best way is to find one with excellent quality at a reasonable rate.
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