5th Wheel Pin Box For Short Bed Truck
If you own a short bed truck and are considering buying a 5th wheel RV, you may be wondering how you can safely tow it without damaging your truck or trailer. Fortunately, there is a solution – a 5th wheel pin box designed specifically for short bed trucks. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what a 5th wheel pin box is, how it works, and why it's a must-have for anyone towing a 5th wheel RV with a short bed truck.
What is a 5th Wheel Pin Box?
A 5th wheel pin box is a device that connects the 5th wheel trailer to the truck's bed. It's essentially a hitch that sits on top of the truck's bed, allowing the trailer to pivot and turn as the truck turns. The pin box is attached to the trailer's kingpin and slides into the hitch on the truck's bed.
How Does a 5th Wheel Pin Box Work?
A 5th wheel pin box works by allowing the trailer to pivot and turn as the truck turns. When the truck turns, the trailer pivots around the hitch point, allowing it to make tighter turns without hitting the truck's cab. The pin box slides into the hitch on the truck's bed, and the two are locked together with a locking mechanism.
Why Do You Need a 5th Wheel Pin Box for a Short Bed Truck?
If you have a short bed truck, you may not have enough clearance between the cab and the trailer when making tight turns. This can result in damage to your truck's cab or the trailer's front end. A 5th wheel pin box designed for short bed trucks provides additional clearance by moving the kingpin back further from the truck's cab.
Types of 5th Wheel Pin Boxes for Short Bed Trucks
There are several types of 5th wheel pin boxes designed for short bed trucks, including:
- Fixed pin box – This is a basic pin box that doesn't move. It provides enough clearance for most short bed trucks, but may not be suitable for all situations.
- Sliding pin box – This type of pin box slides back and forth to provide additional clearance when making tight turns.
- Rotating pin box – A rotating pin box pivots from side to side, allowing for greater maneuverability when backing up or making tight turns.
Choosing the Right 5th Wheel Pin Box for Your Short Bed Truck
When choosing a 5th wheel pin box for your short bed truck, you'll need to consider several factors, including:
- The weight of your trailer – Make sure the pin box you choose can support the weight of your trailer.
- The length of your truck bed – The length of your truck bed will determine the type of pin box you need.
- Your budget – 5th wheel pin boxes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
Installation of a 5th Wheel Pin Box
Installation of a 5th wheel pin box can be done by a professional or by the owner. If you choose to install it yourself, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. It's important to make sure the pin box is securely attached to the trailer and the hitch on the truck's bed.
Conclusion
If you own a short bed truck and are considering towing a 5th wheel RV, a 5th wheel pin box is a must-have. It provides additional clearance between the cab and the trailer, allowing you to make tighter turns without damaging your truck or trailer. When choosing a pin box, make sure you consider the weight of your trailer, the length of your truck bed, and your budget. And always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing the pin box.