2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Rear Shackle Brackets

[surfbeetle]

I am installing a fifth wheel hitch on my truck. I have to install it further back than normal. The rear of the plate will interfere with the bracket that holds the leaf spring shackle to the frame. I was thinking of sandwiching the plate for the hitch in between the bracket and the frame. The bolts that hold the bracket to the frame are the issue that this point. I don't know what diameter they are without first removing them. I don't want to remove them without bolts to replace them in hand. Anyone know what size they are on a 95?

 

[Grizzly]

It's not advisable to install your 5th wheel hitch any further back than normal. If that bracket and or hitch doesn't work, get one that will work. Remember you can weld and drill on your 95 frame where you're not suppose to on a 3rd gen although many do.

 

[surfbeetle]

Yeah, I know it's not advisable in a perfect world... I have a sleeper cab so the hitch goes backwards. If I can sandwich the plate where I want, then I won't need to unnecessarily drill or weld the frame, only the hitch plate.

 

[Beast2B]

hope the trailer's pin weight isn't too heavy. that much load too far behind the rear axle will wreak havoc with your steering! not dissing anyone, just a friendly note to be careful.

 

[surfbeetle]

Yeah, I have given up on that idea. So if anyone wants to buy a 24k Superglide, I will have one for sale.

 

[MarkMiller]

There is a company that makes tag along gooseneck/5th wheel plate setups. I don't know the name but I am sure someone in the RV section here does. There is a guy in my neighborhood that has one behind a suburban and it is fixed so it won't swing, I don't think that is such a hot idea. I would use one that pivots. Hard to back up, but it can be done.

 

[surfbeetle]

Yeah, what sucks is that when I first had the sleeper installed in my truck, my fiver at the time had an extended pinbox and the pin was out in front of the leading edge of the trailer. Now the trailer I have has an extended pinbox and the pin sits even with the leading edge. I had been using the rv5 extension, but I have become concerned of any long term effects that may have on the trailer.