fifth wheel hitch height

[Darin Tessier]

I've got a 2002 2500 4X4 and a fifth wheel hitch that I want to build my own mount for. The factory mount is a little light looking, and I wanted to make one that went over the fenders anyway. I see that all the new hitches are adjustable, but, I was wondering if there was kind of a standard height from the floor of the box that would work. The ones I've seen adjust from 13" to 18". I am going to be pulling a variety of trailers, RV, flatdeck, stock, all at somewhat various heights. I know I should just go buy a new one, but, being bored, broke and having all kinds of steel, and time... ..... well, you know the rest!

Darin

 

[GaryCarter]

The hitch needs to bolt to the frame rails. I don't see how you can mount over the fenders and do that?

I've seen some older rigs bolted to the truck body, but I would never use one that way myself.



Mike

 

[Larry Willard]

There is no perfect height, therefore the adjustable hitch. The pin height of the trailer determines how high the hitch has to be. You want the trailer to sit level when loaded and ready to travel, and the only other way to adjust that would be to change the axle locations with adjustable shackles.

Larry