Best Fifth Wheel Hitches For Short Bed Trucks: Practical Features for Easier Everyday Use

A strong fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck provides turning clearance without making coupling, towing, or removal unnecessarily difficult. The right choice suits drivers who need to manage trailer obstruction while matching the truck’s mounting system, trailer capacity, and available bed space. This roundup includes automatic and manual-style sliding designs, gooseneck-based connections, factory puck compatibility, standard rails, and flatbed-specific options.

Capacity ranges from 16,000 to 24,000 pounds among the listed hitches, while some products emphasize quieter towing, articulating heads, remote latching, or lighter installation. Short-bed fit is not universal, so confirm the truck, bed, hitch base, kingpin, gooseneck ball, and trailer requirements before choosing.

For most short bed truck owners, a sliding hitch is the most direct solution because it moves the coupling point rearward for added turning clearance. The CURT S20 provides 12 inches of displacement and auto-latching, while the PullRite SuperGlide models offer 14 inches of automatic travel but require a capture plate. The CURT A20 combines a 20,000-pound rating with a torsion head and wraparound jaws.

Gooseneck users should consider Andersen’s lighter Ultimate connections, while Ford owners with factory puck mounts can look at PullRite’s 16,000-pound OE model.

Fifth Wheel Hitches for Short Bed Trucks: A Comparison

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs (Head Required) Best for: Sliding hitch, head required Brand: CURT | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck	View on Amazon
Best Pick 2	CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs Best for: Sliding hitch, automatic Brand: CURT | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck	View on Amazon
Best Pick 3	ANDERSEN HITCHES | Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection (Toolbox Model) | 13" Tall Base, 24,000 lbs GTWR, 4,500 LBS Tongue Weight | 3220-TBX Best for: Toolbox compatible connection Brand: Andersen Hitches | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck	View on Amazon
Best Pick 4	PULLRITE Pulliam Enterprises 2900 Superglide 20,000 Best for: Automatic sliding hitch Brand: PullRite | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck	View on Amazon
Best Pick 5	Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection Gooseneck Adapter 24000 lb GTWR 4500 lb Tongue SAE Certified – 3220 Best for: Gooseneck adapter connection Brand: Andersen Hitches | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck	View on Amazon

How We Compared These Products

We compared dimensions, capacity, materials, compatibility, included components, and care requirements across many Amazon listings. These details matter because the product must fit the available space, intended use, setup requirements, and maintenance routine. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from CURT, Andersen Hitches, PullRite, B&W, and JY PERFORMANCE.

The shortlist includes products such as CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, ANDERSEN HITCHES, and PULLRITE Pulliam Enterprises 2900 Superglide Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.

Detailed Reviews: Best Fifth Wheel Hitches For Short Bed Trucks

1. CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs (Head Required)

Best for: Short bed truck towing.

The CURT S20 slider offers 12 inches of displacement for the coupling point, providing essential turning clearance for short-bed trucks to avoid trailer obstruction. Its auto-latch mechanism secures the hitch automatically once forward motion is detected.

This carbon steel slider is factory assembled for immediate use, featuring an ergonomic handle and industry-standard mounting points. Its solid design aims to eliminate chucking, contributing to a quieter towing experience. The auto-latching system simplifies hookup by automatically locking the lever into place.

Product Details

Pros

• Provides 12 inches of displacement for turning clearance
• Auto-latch mechanism secures hitch automatically
• Factory assembled for immediate use
• Solid design to eliminate chucking

Cons

• Head is required and sold separately

Ideal for short-bed truck owners needing enhanced maneuverability, this hitch requires a separate head unit for full functionality and is built with durable carbon steel.

2. CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs

Best for: Smooth and quiet towing.

The CURT A20 5th wheel hitch features a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts to suppress shock loads and reduce noise during towing. Its fully articulating torsion head ensures controlled coupling and stable towing performance.

This alloy steel hitch offers an extra-wide head opening for easier coupling and high-strength, interlocking jaws that fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise. The lockable handle self-resets to the ready-to-couple position after uncoupling, simplifying the towing workflow.

Product Details

Pros

• Poly-torsion inserts suppress shock and reduce noise
• Fully articulating torsion head for stable towing
• High-strength jaws minimize noise
• Lockable handle self-resets for easy use

Cons

• Heavier at 212 pounds compared to some models

Suitable for drivers prioritizing a smooth, quiet ride, this hitch is constructed from robust alloy steel but is a heavier option for those concerned with weight.

3. ANDERSEN HITCHES | Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection (Toolbox Model) | 13″ Tall Base, 24,000 lbs GTWR, 4,500 LBS Tongue Weight | 3220-TBX

Best for: Versatile short bed connection.

The Andersen Hitches Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection (Toolbox Model) offers versatility with two height adjustments, fitting most trucks. Its patented remote latch/unlatch cable allows for easy unhooking without entering the truck bed.

Constructed from lightweight aluminum, this connection system works with all standard gooseneck hitches and features a new ball-funnel for simplified hook-up. The 13" tall base with a 24,000 lbs GTWR rating provides stability, and the remote cable ensures convenient operation.

Product Details

Pros

• Works with all standard gooseneck hitches
• Two height adjustments for fitment
• Patented remote latch/unlatch cable
• Lightweight aluminum construction

Cons

• Requires a gooseneck hitch setup

This aluminum hitch is ideal for truck owners with existing gooseneck hitches seeking a versatile and easy-to-operate fifth wheel connection, especially those needing toolbox clearance.

4. PULLRITE Pulliam Enterprises 2900 Superglide 20,000

Best for: Automatic slide for maneuverability.

The PULLRITE 2900 Superglide offers 14 inches of fully automatic slide, providing 90-degree turning capability for enhanced maneuverability with short-bed trucks. Its locking jaw closes automatically around the kingpin for secure engagement.

This alloy steel hitch operates fully automatically, eliminating the need to manually adjust levers before and after turns. It stands 18.5 inches to the top of the hitch plate and requires a capture plate to activate its sliding cam mechanism for safe and efficient towing.

Product Details

Pros

• 14 inches of fully automatic slide
• Enables 90-degree turning capability
• Locking jaw closes automatically
• No manual lever adjustment needed

Cons

• Requires a separate capture plate

Perfect for drivers who need maximum turning radius without manual intervention, this hitch is made of alloy steel but necessitates an additional capture plate for operation.

5. Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection Gooseneck Adapter 24000 lb GTWR 4500 lb Tongue SAE Certified – 3220

Best for: Lightweight gooseneck adapter.

The Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection is a lightweight aluminum adapter rated for 24,000 lbs GTWR. It offers two height settings and a compact offset base for stability without sacrificing truck bed space.

Weighing only 37 lbs, this adapter allows for a one-person install in under five minutes. It features patented remote latching for easy operation and SAE certification for towing safety. The two height positions, 17-9/16" or 19-9/16", ensure compatibility with most trucks and trailers.

Product Details

Pros

• Lightweight for easy one-person installation
• Rated for 24,000 lbs GTWR
• Two height settings for broad compatibility
• Patented remote latching system

Cons

• Designed for gooseneck hitch setups

This option suits buyers whose needs match the listed features of Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection. Confirm its stated fit, dimensions, compatibility, and included components against the intended setup before choosing it.

6. B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500

Best for: Smooth ride with Turnoverball.

The B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch offers a smooth ride by eliminating sloppiness, attaching directly to your Turnoverball under-bed mounting system. Its fully articulating head allows for front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting.

Engineered for structural integrity and consistent performance, this alloy steel hitch features a cam action latching handle for easy release, even on uneven surfaces. It provides a secure connection and is designed to work seamlessly with the Turnoverball system for dual-purpose towing.

Product Details

Pros

• Attaches to Turnoverball under-bed system
• Fully articulating head for flexibility
• Cam action latching handle for easy release
• Engineered for structural integrity

Cons

• Requires B&W Turnoverball under-bed mounting system

This B&W Companion hitch is designed for owners of the Turnoverball system seeking a smooth, durable fifth wheel connection, offering flexible head movement and easy operation.

7. Fifth 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails and Installation Kits

Best for: Universal 5th wheel rails.

This universal, 10-bolt fifth wheel trailer hitch mount rails and installation kit from JY PERFORMANCE provides the necessary attachment points for most fifth-wheel hitches. Rails mount on top of the truck bed floor for straightforward installation.

Constructed from alloy steel with a durable carbide powder coat finish, this kit includes rails, brackets, and hardware, rated for 25,000 pounds. It offers easy installation and removal, allowing full access to the truck bed when not in use, and is compatible with multiple hitch brands.

Product Details

Pros

• Universal fit for most applications
• Rated for 25,000 pounds
• Easy installation and removal
• Compatible with multiple hitch brands

Cons

• Not for use on Reese Elite Series models

This universal rail kit is suitable for truck owners needing a robust mounting solution for their fifth wheel hitch, offering broad compatibility but with specific exclusions for certain Reese models.

8. B&W Trailer Hitches Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch- RVK3050

Best for: Flatbed truck conversion.

The B&W Trailer Hitches Flatbed Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch converts a B&W Turnoverball gooseneck hitch for flatbed trucks into a fifth wheel setup. It features a short base specifically designed for steel flatbeds.

Engineered for structural integrity and durability, this alloy steel hitch provides consistent performance under repeated towing conditions. Its fully articulating head allows for front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting, ensuring smooth operation and compatibility with various trailer angles.

Product Details

Pros

• Converts Turnoverball gooseneck to fifth wheel
• Short base designed for flatbeds
• Fully articulating head
• Engineered for durability

Cons

• Requires B&W Turnoverball gooseneck hitch

This hitch is designed for flatbed truck owners who already have a B&W Turnoverball system, offering a dedicated fifth wheel conversion with a durable, articulating head.

9. PullRite 2714 OE Puck Series 16K SuperGlide Automatically Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Select Ford 6.5 ft. Truck Beds

Best for: Ford OE Puck System hitch.

The PullRite 2714 OE Puck Series SuperGlide is an automatically sliding fifth wheel hitch designed specifically for select Ford trucks with OE puck systems. It provides 14 inches of travel for enhanced maneuverability.

This alloy steel hitch mounts directly to your truck’s factory fifth wheel mounting points, eliminating the need for adapter rails. The fully automatic sliding mechanism engages without manual intervention, simplifying hookups and providing a secure connection around the kingpin.

Product Details

Pros

• Designed for Ford OE Puck Systems
• 14 inches of automatic slide travel
• Direct mounting to factory points
• Fully automatic operation

Cons

• Requires a capture plate

Ideal for Ford truck owners with factory puck systems, this automatically sliding hitch offers direct mounting and significant travel, but requires an additional capture plate.

10. CURT 16511 E16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 16,000 lbs

Best for: Compact slider hitch.

The CURT 16511 E16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for short bed trucks offers 10 degrees of lateral movement through dual-axis pivoting. It automatically locks for secure coupling and operates with a simple, single handle.

This alloy steel hitch features an anti-rattle skid plate to help reduce towing noise. Its design incorporates few moving parts for reliability and ease of use. The hitch provides automatic locking for secure hookups, simplifying the towing process for short-bed truck owners.

Product Details

Pros

• 10 degrees of lateral movement
• Automatically locks for secure coupling
• Single handle operation
• Anti-rattle skid plate reduces noise

Cons

• Lower weight capacity at 16,000 lbs compared to some models

This CURT slider hitch is a good choice for short-bed truck owners seeking a user-friendly, noise-reducing option, though its 16,000 lb capacity may be a consideration for heavier trailers.

What Buyers Often Overlook

Sliding travel, capacity, and short-bed clearance

For short-bed clearance, prioritize a hitch with verified rearward travel and a capacity that exceeds the trailer’s required rating. The CURT S20 moves the coupling point 12 inches, while the CURT E16 also uses a short-bed slider design and is rated at 16,000 pounds. PullRite’s 2900 Superglide and 2714 OE Puck Series models provide 14 inches of automatic slide; the 2900 is rated at 20,000 pounds and the 2714 at 16,000 pounds.

The PullRite options require a capture plate, so that fitment detail matters as much as travel. The CURT A20 offers a 20,000-pound rating but its supplied data emphasizes the slider hitch rather than a stated travel figure.

Do not select by capacity alone: match the hitch to the trailer requirement, truck mounting arrangement, and available clearance, then verify that the specific slider or capture-plate setup fits the combination.

The Key Product Trade-Off

Mounting-system and installation trade-offs

The mounting system determines whether a hitch is a practical match, because these products do not all attach to the truck in the same way. The Andersen Ultimate connections work with standard gooseneck hitches and provide remote latch or unlatch operation; the listed versions use aluminum construction and support up to 24,000 pounds GTWR with 4,500 pounds tongue weight. B&W’s Companion RVK3500 attaches to a B&W Turnoverball under-bed system, while the RVK3050 is designed for flatbed trucks and converts a B&W Turnoverball gooseneck hitch.

PullRite’s 2714 attaches directly to select Ford factory puck mounting points and is intended for 6.5-foot beds. The JY PERFORMANCE kit supplies universal-style rails, brackets, and hardware for many applications, but it is not for Reese Elite or Signature models.

Confirm the base system before choosing the hitch; a capacity match cannot overcome incompatible mounting hardware.

Best Fifth Wheel Hitches For Short Bed Trucks: Buyer's Guide

Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility

Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.

Capacity, Output, and Operating Format

Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.

Materials, Construction, and Care

Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.

Included Components and Setup Needs

Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose an automatic slider when reducing bed-side intervention matters: CURT’s S20 auto-latches and provides 12 inches of displacement, while PullRite’s SuperGlide designs automatically slide 14 inches; both PullRite options require a capture plate. Choose the CURT A20 if a 20,000-pound hitch with a torsion head, wraparound jaws, and a self-resetting handle fits your mounting system. For a lower-weight gooseneck-based connection, Andersen’s Ultimate models use aluminum, remote latching, and two height settings, with ratings up to 24,000 pounds GTWR.

Select B&W’s Companion only with a Turnoverball system, or the RVK3050 for the listed flatbed application. For factory Ford puck mounts, the PullRite 2714 is the targeted option.

Use the rail kit only after confirming its application exclusions and bracket fit.

Quick Buying Checklist

• Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
• Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
• Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
• Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
• Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
• Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sliding fifth wheel hitch?

A sliding fifth wheel hitch allows the trailer to move forward or backward relative to the truck. This is crucial for short bed trucks, enabling tighter turns and preventing the trailer from hitting the cab during maneuvers.

Do I need a sliding hitch for a short bed truck?

Yes, a sliding fifth wheel hitch is highly recommended for short bed trucks. It provides the necessary clearance to make turns without the trailer cab impacting the truck’s cab, preventing potential damage.

What is the difference between manual and automatic sliders?

Manual sliders require the user to physically move the hitch into position for turns. Automatic sliders engage and disengage the sliding mechanism on their own as the trailer turns, offering greater convenience.

Can I use a fifth wheel hitch with a toolbox?

Some fifth wheel hitches are designed to be compatible with toolboxes, often referred to as ‘toolbox models.’ These typically have a taller base or a specific design to accommodate the toolbox under the trailer.

What is the importance of hitch weight capacity?

The hitch weight capacity must exceed the tongue weight of your trailer. Exceeding this limit can compromise safety and lead to equipment failure. Always check both the hitch and trailer specifications.

Final Words

Selecting the right fifth wheel hitch for your short bed truck is vital for safe towing. Consider whether automatic or manual sliding is preferred, and if toolbox compatibility is a requirement. Ensure the hitch’s weight capacity meets or exceeds your trailer’s tongue weight for a secure and reliable setup.