Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For Short Bed Truck (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient hitch for your short bed truck, you might be wondering which one is the best fifth wheel hitch for your needs. Before making any purchase, it's important to consider several factors that can affect your decision, such as the weight capacity, compatibility with your truck's make and model, ease of use, and budget.
When it comes to weight capacity, the hitch should be able to handle the weight of your fifth wheel trailer, which can vary depending on the size and type. Additionally, you should ensure that the hitch is suitable for your specific truck's make and model, as compatibility issues can cause significant damage. Ease of use is also crucial, as a hitch that requires a lot of effort may be inconvenient, especially if you plan on using it frequently. Lastly, budget is always a consideration, and you may want to balance affordability with quality when selecting your hitch.
Are you tired of spending hours researching and comparing different hitches, only to end up confused and overwhelmed? What if we told you that there is a perfect solution tailor-made for you? Keep reading to discover the one hitch that thousands of satisfied customers have chosen for their short bed trucks, and why it might be the best fit for you too. With its cutting-edge design, high weight capacity, and excellent compatibility, this hitch is the top pick for anyone looking for a hassle-free and worry-free towing experience. Don't miss out on your chance to upgrade your truck's towing capabilities and hit the road with confidence!
10 Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For Short Bed Truck
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This product is ideal for short bed trucks and can handle up to 16,000 lbs for towing a 5th wheel trailer.
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It is ideal for towing heavy loads with Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks equipped with an 8-foot bed puck system.
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This product is ideal for towing fifth wheel trailers on Ford vehicles equipped with an OEM puck system.
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The product is ideal for towing fifth-wheel trailers with 2020-2024 Chevrolet/GM trucks featuring an OEM puck system.
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The product is ideal for towing heavy loads with select RAM 2500 or 3500 trucks.
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This product is ideal for converting a pickup truck bed into a fifth wheel or gooseneck trailer hitch with a 25,000 lb weight capacity.
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The product is ideal for towing heavy loads with compatible Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty trucks.
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The product is ideal for towing heavy loads and provides a secure connection between the trailer and the hitch.
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The product is ideal for towing heavy loads with a fifth wheel hitch and allows for easy maneuverability.
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CURT 16120 A16 5th Wheel Hitch is ideal for hauling trailers with a weight capacity of up to 16,000 lbs.
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1. Curt 16611 E16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch With Base Rails For Short Bed Trucks, 16,000 Lbs
The CURT 5th wheel hitch is a reliable and versatile towing solution for your needs. It boasts a dual-pivoting head that provides up to 10 degrees of lateral movement. This feature ensures a smoother and more stable towing experience, especially on uneven terrain. Coupling and uncoupling is also made easier and more secure with the automatic locking feature of the coupler.
The anti-rattle skid plate of the 5th wheel hitch helps reduce noise and vibration at the coupling point, providing a more comfortable ride. It's also equipped with a tested safety feature, meeting SAE J2638 specifications for safety. This hitch can tow up to 16,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 4,000 lbs. vertical load, but is limited to the lowest-rated towing component.
The CURT 5th wheel hitch also offers a versatile fit, coming with a 5th wheel roller and 5th wheel base rails that can be mounted onto under-bed 5th wheel brackets (brackets sold separately). The roller allows for up to 12 inches of rearward travel for additional turning clearance, making it easier to maneuver around tight spaces.
Investing in the CURT 5th wheel hitch means investing in a durable, reliable, and versatile towing solution that can handle your needs. With its dual-pivoting head, automatic locking feature, anti-rattle skid plate, tested safety, and versatile fit, it's a hitch that you can trust to get the job done right.
2. Chevy/gmc Puck System 5th Wheel Hitch
The A-series 5th wheel hitch is designed to offer a hassle-free and ergonomic solution for coupling your 5th wheel trailer. With its extra-wide head and unique handle, the hitch allows for easy attachment and uncoupling. The handle is designed to self-reset to the ready-to-couple position, ensuring a smooth and efficient towing experience.
The patented head technology of this 5th wheel hitch provides full articulation and controlled towing of your 5th wheel camper. The head is built on a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts that reduce shock loads, chucking and noise at the coupling point. This ensures a smooth and stable ride, even on rough terrains.
One of the standout features of this 5th wheel hitch is the 3-position coupling indicator built into it. The indicator shows the coupling status, conveniently displaying if the hitch is coupled, uncoupled, or ready to tow. This allows for easy monitoring and ensures that you are always aware of the hitch's status.
The 5th wheel hitch has been tested and rated for 30,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 7,000 lbs. vertical load (limited to lowest-rated towing component). It is tested according to SAE J2638 specifications, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality and safety.
This 5th wheel kit fits select model years of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD with an 8-foot bed and puck system. It has quarter-turn anchors that enable you to quickly and easily drop it into the truck bed platform. This versatile fit allows for compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, making it a convenient and practical choice for all your towing needs.
3. Ford Compatible Fifth Wheel Hitch – Rvk3370
Looking for a reliable and durable hitch for your Ford vehicle? Look no further than this compatible Ford OEM hitch platform from a trusted brand. With 12 inches of slide, this hitch provides additional turning clearance, making it easier to maneuver your vehicle and trailer.
The fully articulating head allows for front to back and side to side pivoting, providing optimal control during towing. The cam action latching handle ensures easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites. Plus, polyurethane bushings provide a quiet, rattle-free towing experience, making your journey smoother and more comfortable.
This hitch has a maximum weight capacity of 20,000 lb GTW and 5,000 lb VTW, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty towing needs. Additionally, this hitch is proudly made in America and comes with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.
Invest in a high-quality, reliable hitch for your Ford vehicle with this compatible Ford OEM hitch platform. With its impressive specifications and features, you can rest assured that your towing needs will be met with ease and efficiency.
4. Chevy Compatibility 25k Fifth Wheel Hitch.
Looking for a reliable hitch platform for your 2020-2024 Chevrolet/GM? Look no further than this compatible hitch platform that offers a range of features to make your towing experience smooth and hassle-free.
Featuring a fully articulating head, this hitch platform allows for front to back and side to side pivoting, making it easy to maneuver your trailer in any direction. The cam action latching handle ensures that the platform is easy to release, even when parked on unlevel sites. This makes it a great choice for anyone who frequently travels over rough terrain or uneven surfaces.
With a 25,000 lb GTW/6,250 lb VTW capacity, this hitch platform is designed to handle heavy loads with ease. Whether you're hauling a trailer full of equipment or towing a large boat, you can trust this platform to get the job done.
What's more, this hitch platform is made in America with a limited lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in its quality and durability. With its range of features and reliable performance, this hitch platform is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to tow with ease and confidence.
5. Ram Talon Hitch: Strong And Simple Fifth Wheel.
The product being described is a heavy-duty fifth wheel hitch with a phenomenal weight capacity of 27,000 lbs. This hitch is engineered to handle even the heaviest loads with ease. It has a remarkable pin weight capacity of 6,750 lbs, making it an ideal choice for heavy-duty towing applications.
One of the standout features of this fifth wheel hitch is its exclusive Talon Jaw system. This innovative technology ensures that the jaw is always ready to receive the pin, eliminating lateral clunking, reducing sway, and minimizing unwanted noise. This ensures a smooth and quiet towing experience.
The hitch is also designed to offer struggle-free controls. Thanks to its ergonomic easy-reach handle and low-effort Talon Jaw System, the user can operate it with ease. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a hassle-free towing experience.
Another significant feature of this fifth wheel hitch is its impressive vertical adjustment range. It offers a vertical adjustment range of 14 inches to 18 inches, making it easy to level the trailer and ensure a safe and comfortable towing experience.
6. Enixwill Fifth Wheel Gooseneck Hitch Adapter Plate For Pickup Truck Bed，25,000 Lbs, 2-5/16-Inch Ball
The fifth wheel gooseneck hook is a specially designed product that offers maximum functionality. It is specifically designed to be installed in the fifth wheelbase guide rail of the industry standard, and can be used for gooseneck traction. This unique product is a must-have for anyone who needs to tow heavy loads.
The size of the fifth wheel gooseneck adapter ball is 2-5/16 inches in diameter. It has been tested and rated for a traction capacity of 25000 pounds, with a gross weight of the trailer being 6250 pounds. The hook is not completely centered, and it is offset from the center of the plate by 3 inches. This design allows for better weight distribution and improved towing stability.
The surface of this fifth wheel gooseneck hitch is coated with a highly durable powder that can resist the influence of corrosive elements such as rain, snow, dirt, etc. This coating provides a beautiful and durable appearance, making it perfect for anyone who wants a product that is both functional and attractive.
Installation of this product is easy and convenient. The included pin and clip can be used to fix the hook to the guide rail for quick installation and removal. This feature makes it easy for anyone to install and remove the product without any difficulties.
It is important to note that in some states, the safety chain must be connected to a separate connection point instead of a hook. Therefore, it is essential to check the regulations in your state before using this product.
7. Ford-Compatible Reese M5™ Hitch For Super Duty Trucks
This fifth wheel hitch boasts an impressive 20,000-pound capacity, making it perfect for those who need to haul heavy loads. It comes equipped with a 5,000-pound pin weight capacity, ensuring that your cargo stays secure during transport.
One of the standout features of this fifth wheel hitch is the exclusive Talon Jaw system. This innovative design ensures that the hitch is always ready to receive the pin, and it grips it tightly to eliminate lateral clunking. This helps reduce sway and noise during transport, providing a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.
The controls of this hitch are designed to be struggle-free, with an ergonomic handle that is easy to reach. The low effort Talon Jaw System ensures that you won't have to struggle to get the job done, making it much easier to hitch and unhitch your cargo.
Another great feature of this fifth wheel hitch is the 14-inch to 18-inch vertical adjustment. This allows you to easily adjust the height of the hitch to accommodate different types of cargo, ensuring that it is always securely attached.
8. Reese 30047 16k Fifth Wheel
The 16K Fifth Wheel Hitch is a heavy-duty and dependable hitch that will make towing your fifth wheel a breeze. With a 16,000 lbs. capacity and a 4,000 lbs. pin weight capacity, this hitch can handle even the heaviest of loads.
One of the standout features of this hitch is its 6" side-to-side pivot, which allows for easier hook-ups on uneven ground. This pivot also makes towing smoother and more stable, reducing the risk of accidents.
The adjustment heights of the hitch range from 14 1/2" to 18", and it has both fore-and-aft and side-to-side pivot capabilities, so you can find the perfect towing position for your vehicle. The two-jaw locking system with locking jaw handle also ensures that your fifth wheel is securely fastened to the hitch.
The one-piece legs of the hitch are designed with a wide stance, which provides improved stability while towing. The hitch is also thoroughly tested for durability, so you can trust that it will last for many years to come.
Another great feature of this hitch is its easy removal system, which allows for full bed access when the hitch is not in use. This makes it easy to switch between towing and hauling cargo in your truck bed.
The patent jaw locking mechanism of the hitch surrounds the fifth wheel king pin, ensuring proper towing and reducing the risk of accidents. The fifth wheel hitch is also designed for both front to back and side to side tilt pivot, making it incredibly versatile.
Lastly, the hitch comes with a five year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that you are investing in a quality product. Overall, the 16K Fifth Wheel Hitch is a reliable and sturdy choice for anyone in need of a dependable hitch for their fifth wheel.
9. Reese Towpower 30051 16k Fifth Wheel W/kwik-Slide
Introducing the durable and reliable fifth wheel hitch with a remarkable 16,000 lbs. capacity and 4,000 lbs. pin weight capacity, designed to provide a safe and secure towing experience.
Featuring a 6" side-to-side pivot, this hitch is built to accommodate hook-ups on uneven ground while ensuring easier towing. The adjustable height ranges from 15" to 18" with a square tube slider, fore-and-aft, and side-to-side pivot, providing flexibility and convenience.
The hitch is equipped with a two-jaw locking system with a locking jaw handle, ensuring a tight grip and security while towing. The one-piece legs of the hitch are designed with a wide stance to improve stability, ensuring a smooth and safe towing experience.
This hitch is thoroughly tested for durability and reliability, ensuring that it is capable of handling even the toughest of towing jobs. The hitch slides a full 10 inches, allowing for a greater turning radius and better maneuverability.
To further enhance the ease of use, the hitch comes with six rollers, making operation a breeze. A position indicator assures that the slide is locked into place and ready to use, while the fifth wheel hitch is designed for both front to back and side to side tilt pivot, providing greater flexibility and adaptability.
Please note that this item cannot be returned and has additional shipping restrictions. Invest in this exceptional fifth wheel hitch for a hassle-free and secure towing experience.
10. Curt 16120 A16 5th Wheel Hitch, 16,000 Lbs
The A-series 5th wheel hitch is the perfect solution for those who are in search of a reliable and easy-to-use hitch for their 5th wheel trailers. This hitch has been designed with the user in mind, featuring a unique ergonomic handle and an extra-wide head that make coupling your 5th wheel trailer a breeze. The handle is self-resetting, ensuring that it always returns to the ready-to-couple position after uncoupling.
The patented head technology of this 5th wheel hitch provides controlled towing of your 5th wheel camper. The head is built on a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts, which reduces shock loads, chucking and noise at the coupling point. This ensures a smooth and comfortable ride for you and your passengers.
One of the standout features of this 5th wheel hitch is the built-in 3-position indicator that shows the coupling status. This feature is incredibly convenient, allowing you to quickly and easily determine whether the hitch is coupled, uncoupled or ready to tow.
This 5th wheel hitch has been rigorously tested and rated for 16,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 4,000 lbs. vertical load, as per SAE J2638 specifications. This ensures that you can depend on the strength and durability of this hitch to safely tow your 5th wheel trailer.
The A-series 5th wheel hitch is versatile and will fit any industry-standard 5th wheel base rails, such as CURT base rails #16104 and #16204 (base rails and brackets sold separately). This means that you can easily and securely mount the hitch onto any compatible rail system, providing a reliable and sturdy connection between your vehicle and trailer.
Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For Short Bed Truck FAQs
Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of when using a fifth wheel hitch with a short bed truck?
Yes, there are some safety concerns that you should be aware of when using a fifth wheel hitch with a short bed truck. One of the main concerns is the possibility of the trailer hitting the cab of the truck during sharp turns. This can cause damage to both the truck and the trailer, and can also be a safety hazard if it causes the trailer to become unstable.
To prevent this, it is important to use a sliding fifth wheel hitch, which allows the hitch to move back and forth as needed during turns. Additionally, you should be careful not to make sharp turns when towing a fifth wheel with a short bed truck.
Another safety concern is the weight distribution of the trailer. It is important to ensure that the weight of the trailer is properly distributed over the axles, and that the hitch is rated for the weight of the trailer. Overloading the hitch can cause it to fail, which can be extremely dangerous.
Overall, if you are using a fifth wheel hitch with a short bed truck, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions to ensure that you and your passengers stay safe on the road.
Can I install a fifth wheel hitch on a short bed truck myself, or do I need a professional?
While it is possible to install a fifth wheel hitch on a short bed truck yourself, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a professional. Fifth wheel hitch installation can be a complex process that requires a certain level of expertise in order to ensure that the hitch is installed correctly and safely.
A professional installer will have the necessary tools and experience to properly install the hitch, ensuring that it is mounted securely to the truck's frame and that all necessary electrical connections are made. They will also be able to provide guidance on the proper placement of the hitch to ensure that weight distribution is balanced and that the truck is able to handle the added weight of the fifth wheel trailer.
Attempting to install a fifth wheel hitch yourself could result in damage to your truck or trailer, or even pose a safety risk if the hitch is not installed correctly. It is always best to seek the assistance of a professional for this type of installation.
Can I use a fifth wheel hitch designed for a long bed truck on a short bed truck?
It is possible to use a fifth wheel hitch designed for a long bed truck on a short bed truck, but it requires additional equipment and caution. Short bed trucks have less clearance between the cab and the hitch, which can result in the trailer hitting the back of the cab during turns. To prevent this, a sliding fifth wheel hitch or a hitch extender can be used to increase the distance between the cab and the trailer during turns.
It is important to note that using a hitch extender can reduce the weight capacity of the hitch, and it may also affect the handling and stability of the trailer. It is recommended to consult with a professional installer and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for safe and proper installation.
Overall, while it is possible to use a fifth wheel hitch designed for a long bed truck on a short bed truck, it is important to take the necessary precautions and equipment to ensure safe and secure towing.
How do I know if a fifth wheel hitch is compatible with my short bed truck?
Answer: Compatibility is a crucial factor to consider when installing a fifth wheel hitch on a short bed truck. The key element to check for compatibility is the turning radius. Short bed trucks typically have a shorter distance between the rear axle and the cab, which can result in clearance issues when making tight turns with a fifth wheel hitch.
To ensure compatibility, you need to consider the hitch's design and the truck's bed length. There are specially designed fifth wheel hitches for short bed trucks that offer a sliding mechanism that allows the hitch to move back and forth. This sliding mechanism provides the additional clearance needed when making tight turns, which reduces the risk of damage to the truck or the trailer.
Moreover, you can check the hitch manufacturer's specifications to determine the recommended bed length needed for compatibility. It's important to note that the hitch's weight capacity should also be considered to ensure that it can handle the weight of your trailer.
In summary, to determine if a fifth wheel hitch is compatible with your short bed truck, check for a sliding mechanism, the recommended bed length, and the weight capacity of the hitch.
How much does a fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck typically cost?
The cost of a fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck can vary depending on various factors such as the brand, model, and features. Generally, a basic fifth wheel hitch can cost around $300 to $500, while the more advanced models can range from $1,000 to $2,500. The installation costs can also add to the overall expense, and it is advisable to have it installed by a professional for safety reasons.
It is essential to choose a fifth wheel hitch that is compatible with your short bed truck to ensure optimal performance and safety. Some of the factors to consider when selecting a fifth wheel hitch include weight capacity, ease of use, and durability. It is also crucial to check with the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific truck model to ensure that you choose a hitch that meets your truck's towing requirements.
Overall, investing in a good quality fifth wheel hitch is crucial for a safe and enjoyable towing experience.
How much weight can a short bed truck safely tow with a fifth wheel hitch?
The amount of weight a short bed truck can safely tow with a fifth wheel hitch depends on several factors such as the truck's towing capacity, the weight of the fifth wheel trailer, and the weight distribution of the load. Generally, short bed trucks have a shorter wheelbase than long bed trucks, which can affect their towing capabilities. However, modern short bed trucks are designed to handle heavier loads due to advancements in suspension and towing technology.
Typically, a short bed truck with a fifth wheel hitch can safely tow up to 15,000-18,000 pounds, but this can vary depending on the specific make and model of the truck. It's important to consult the truck's owner's manual for specific towing capacity information and to ensure that the weight of the trailer and its contents do not exceed the truck's maximum towing capacity. It's also important to ensure that the weight is distributed properly and that the fifth wheel hitch is properly installed to ensure safe towing.
What are some of the best brands of fifth wheel hitches for short bed trucks?
When it comes to choosing a fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck, there are a few brands that stand out. One of the top brands is B&W Trailer Hitches. Their Patriot 16K and Companion 5th Wheel Hitch are both great options for short bed trucks. The Patriot 16K is lightweight and easy to install, making it a popular choice among truck owners. The Companion 5th Wheel Hitch is also easy to install and has a weight capacity of up to 20,000 pounds.
Another great brand for short bed truck hitches is Curt Manufacturing. Their Q-series 5th Wheel Hitch and A20 5th Wheel Hitch are both designed specifically for short bed trucks. The Q-series hitch is easy to install and has a weight capacity of up to 24,000 pounds. The A20 hitch is also easy to install and has a weight capacity of up to 20,000 pounds.
Finally, Reese is also a brand that is well-known for their fifth wheel hitches. Their Elite Series 5th Wheel Hitch and Titan 16K 5th Wheel Hitch are both great options for short bed trucks. The Elite Series hitch is easy to install and has a weight capacity of up to 18,000 pounds. The Titan 16K hitch is also easy to install and has a weight capacity of up to 16,000 pounds.
What are the benefits of using a sliding fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck?
A sliding fifth wheel hitch is a popular option for those who have a short bed truck and tow a fifth wheel trailer. The main benefit of using a sliding fifth wheel hitch is that it allows for greater maneuverability when towing. With a short bed truck, the turning radius is limited, and a standard fifth wheel hitch may cause the trailer to hit the cab of the truck when making sharp turns. A sliding fifth wheel hitch solves this problem by allowing the trailer to slide back and forth as needed, providing additional clearance between the cab of the truck and the trailer.
Another benefit of using a sliding fifth wheel hitch is that it can improve stability when towing. The sliding mechanism can help distribute the weight of the trailer more evenly across the axles of the truck, which can reduce sway and improve handling.
Overall, a sliding fifth wheel hitch is a smart investment for those who have a short bed truck and want to tow a fifth wheel trailer with confidence and safety. It offers improved maneuverability and stability, making it an essential tool for anyone who enjoys RVing or hauling heavy loads.
What factors should I consider when choosing a fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck?
When choosing a fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck, there are several factors that you need to consider to ensure a safe and smooth towing experience. Firstly, you need to consider the weight and size of your fifth wheel trailer, as this will determine the type of hitch you need. You also need to take into account the weight capacity of your truck, as you don't want to overload it.
Secondly, you need to choose between a sliding or fixed hitch. A sliding hitch is recommended for short bed trucks as it allows you to slide the hitch back and forth, giving you more clearance when making sharp turns. A fixed hitch, on the other hand, is better for long bed trucks.
Thirdly, you need to consider the hitch's compatibility with your truck's bed and rails. Ensure that the hitch you choose is compatible with your truck's bed and rails to avoid any complications or damage.
Lastly, you need to consider the price, brand, and warranty of the hitch you choose. Choose a reputable brand with a good warranty, and ensure that the price is within your budget. With these factors in mind, you can choose the right fifth wheel hitch for your short bed truck.
What is the difference between a fixed and sliding fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck?
A fifth wheel hitch is an essential component for towing a fifth wheel trailer. When it comes to choosing the right hitch for your short bed truck, you have two options: a fixed or sliding fifth wheel hitch.
A fixed fifth wheel hitch is mounted directly on the bed of your truck and does not move. It is ideal for trucks with long beds, as it provides a stable connection between the truck and trailer. However, for short bed trucks, a fixed hitch may not be the best option, as it can cause clearance issues when making sharp turns.
A sliding fifth wheel hitch, on the other hand, allows the hitch to move back and forth on the bed of the truck. This provides additional clearance between the truck and trailer when making sharp turns, which is essential for short bed trucks. Sliding hitches come in manual and automatic options, with the automatic hitches being more convenient and easier to use.
In summary, the main difference between a fixed and sliding fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck is that the sliding hitch provides more clearance when making sharp turns, while the fixed hitch is more stable for trucks with long beds.
