Choosing the best fifth wheel hitch for short bed is a bit cumbersome due to the lack of enough space in the rear.
However, it doesn’t mean you can’t install a fifth wheel hitch on your shorter bed truck for towing heavier loads.
Following we’ve reviewed the 10 best fifth wheel trailer hitches that are perfectly compatible with various size and shorter bed and their towing capacity.
Read on to pick the most convenient, user-friendly, and solid fifth wheel hitch to tow your various heavier loads safely using your short bed truck.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product Name | Key Feature |
|---|---|
| 1. B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3500 Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Perfect for easy release even during parking on unlevel sites. ✓ Has fully articulating head.Offer rattle-free towing experience. ✓ Has improved towing power. |
| 2. CURT 16130 5th Wheel Hitch | ✓ Promote the quietest towing experience. ✓ Its 3-position indicator shows the coupling status. ✓ Ensure ergonomic operation. ✓ Ensure maximum security on the road. |
| 3. ANDERSEN HITCHES Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Extremely lighter for towing and mounting. ✓ Perfect for extremely smooth and quiet travel. ✓ Has nearly 3″ of adjustable height. ✓ Strong and robust construction. |
| 4. Reese 30047 Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Perfect for hook-ups on uneven ground. ✓ Allow adjusting height. ✓ Offer improved stability. ✓ Has a two-jaw locking system. |
| 5. Pulliam Enterprises Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Perfect for towing with a super short bed. ✓ Enjoy safer towing. ✓ Fully removable for easier bed cleaning. ✓ Sturdy and solid construction. |
| 6. B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3300 Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Has fully articulating head. ✓ Includes cam action latching handle. ✓ Perfect for effortless installation and removal. ✓ Provide a strong connection. |
| 7. CURT 16516 5th Wheel Slider Hitch | ✓ Promote smooth, stable towing. ✓ Its automatic locking makes the coupling task easier. ✓ Lower rattling and vibration at the coupling point. ✓ Offer 12 inches of additional turning clearance. |
| 8. Pulliam Enterprises 2900 Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Locking jaw closes around king pin. ✓ Has 90 degree turning capability. ✓ 14 inches of the slide during turns. ✓ Easy to install within 20 minutes. |
| 9. PullRite Single Point Hitch Fifth Wheel | ✓ Construct with high-quality American steel. ✓ Reduce bumping and chucking. ✓ Easy and light to remove. ✓ Lightweight and sturdier. |
| 10. Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch | ✓ Reduces slop more effectively than a pin-mount system. ✓ Comes in pre-assembled. ✓ Very easy to engage and release. ✓ Offer smooth and quire ride. |
Best Fifth Wheel Hitch for Short Bed
1. B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3500 Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | B&W Trailer Hitches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 70 Pounds |
| GTW | 20,000 lb |
| VTW | 5,000 lb |
Likewise the title tag, this B&W Fifth Wheel Hitch is a true companion for the truck owner for having smooth and optimum towing performance.
Proudly made in America, this fifth wheel hitch remains precisely stable, eliminating the worry of breaking down or releasing the trailer.
Though this fifth wheel hitch is highly recommended for ford, it also works with many reliable brands to ensure a reliable and quieter towing experience.
An exciting thing is that the truck attachment comes partly ready, making it easier to install and remove without sacrificing the sturdiness.
Sturdy Construction
Made of thicker plastic and Polyurethane bushings, this fifth wheel hitch is extremely sturdy to tow almost any kind of fifth wheel RV smoothly.
Even the attachment is perfect for traveling uphill while a 20,000-pound Gross Towing Weight and 5,000-pound VTW.
Smooth and Quieter Towing
The B&W Fifth Wheel Hitch comes with thicker cast locking jaws to ensure a strong connection while delivering a smooth and reliable towing experience.
Its Polyurethane bushings also offer quiet and rattle-free towing and a fully articulating head ensures perfect sliding.
Easier Installation
Though the 5th wheel hitch comes in huge packaging, it’s extremely easier to assemble.
Hence you won’t have to spend much effort and time during operation.
In addition, the wheel hitch has a Cam action latching handle for easier release even after parking on unlevel sites.
Pros
- Eliminate sloppiness during towing heavy loads.
- Easier installation and smooth operation.
- Remain stable and offer long-lasting performance.
- Offer Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Cons
- Offer poor clearance.
FAQs
Is this fifth wheel hitched a slider or fixed mount?
Fixed mount.
Does it include all the necessary Hardware to install?
Yes.
2. CURT 16130 5th Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | CURT |
|---|---|
| Weight | 140 Pounds |
| GTW | 20,000 lbs |
| VTW | 5,000 lbs |
If you desire for most convenient operation along with smooth and quiet towing, go for this CURT 16130 Q20 5th Wheel Hitch.
Perfectly fit with campers, recreational vehicles, and many other 5th wheel trailers’ short beds, this trailer attachment features a coupling indicator.
It means the 5th wheel hitch will aware of the setting for perfect operation. Apart from that, the wheel hitch is sturdy and functional enough to meet your heavy-duty towing need.
Quiet and Easy Operation
This 5th wheel hitch for a 5.5-foot bed is designed with a patented, spherical axial bearing.
Hence you’ll be able to tilt the head in any direction required to get a smooth, quiet ride.
The wheel hitch is also operating with the short-throw handle to improve the operation of your RV or other 5th wheel trailer.
Coupling Indicator
This 5th wheel hitch features a 3-position indicator to display the coupling status of the trailer and hitch.
It means you’ll be aware of whether the hitch is coupled, uncoupled, or prepared for towing. It also has a lockable handle to ensure optimum security during towing.
Versatility
This 5th wheel hitch is perfectly compatible with any industry-standard 5th wheel base rails.
It can also handle 20,000 lbs GTW and 5000 lbs VTW, making it capable of towing a wide range of 5th wheels.
Pros
- Resist chucking noises.
- Provide wide opening for easy coupling.
- Ensure dependable connection.
- Quieter and smoother operation.
Cons
- Heavier for one person’s operation.
FAQs
Is its height adjustable?
Yes.
Are there any grease zerks?
2 grease fittings.
3. ANDERSEN HITCHES Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | Andersen Hitches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55 Pounds |
| GTW | 24,000 lbs |
| VTW | 4,500 lbs |
Unlike the previous model, if you want a lighter 5th wheel hitch for your short bed truck without sacrificing durability and performance, try this model.
This ANDERSEN HITCHES is made of 35 lbs of sturdy aluminum that eliminate the struggle of handling the 5th wheel hitch.
Hence you can enjoy effortless towing and mounting.
Even the manufacturer claims that this lighter 5th wheel hitch takes only about 5 minutes to install and remove.
Despite this, the truck attachment is amazingly functional and adjustable for versatile applications.
Improved Adjustability
This 5th wheel hitch feature three different height adjustment to deliver your required truck bed space based on towing thing.
Apart from that the 5th wheel hitch work with industry-standard rails and a gooseneck hitch ball for versatile use.
Higher GTW Rating
This lighter 5th wheel hitch can handle up to 24,000-pound GTW and 4,500-pound VTR.
It means this 5th wheel hitch will meet your most demanding towing needs while letting you haul various items at a time.
Robust rail Mount Design
Construct with a strong yet simple rail mount, this gooseneck design 5th wheel hitch offers an extremely quiet and smooth ride.
It also has a remote cable connected to the coupler that eliminates the need of climbing into the truck bed for disconnecting.
Pros
- Ensure stable connection
- Perfect for towing and mounting
- Ensure incredibly smooth and quiet travel
- Quicker and simple to install and operate
Cons
- None.
FAQs
Does this include the coupler?
Yes.
Is there a warranty?
No.
4. Reese 30047 Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | Reese |
|---|---|
| Weight | 107.7 Pounds |
| GTW | 16,000 lbs |
| VTW | 4,000 lbs |
Looking for the cheapest fifth wheel hitch for a short bed or for light-duty use?
Buying this Reese 30047 Fifth Wheel Hitch won’t disappoint you during towing while saving sufficient bucks.
This height-adjustable Fifth Wheel Hitch is made of solid material along with a powder coat to withstand up to 16000 lbs and weather elements.
More importantly, its dual jaw locking system assures perfect towing while being easier to assemble and install in any fifth-wheel truck and RV.
Adjustability
This fifth wheel hitch is adjustable from 15 to 18 inches for precise level towing.
In addition, the truck attachment also includes Wide stance one-piece legs to deliver optimum stability.
Convenient Operation
This fixed-design fifth-wheel hitch is fairly straightforward to install which is another attractive feature besides the lower price.
In addition, this low-cost 5th wheel hitch is universally compatible with the truck and includes mounting rails.
Side-to-side Pivot
Design with a five-degree side-to-side pivot, this low-cost 5th wheel hitch ensures improved hook-up even on tough or uneven ground and for easier towing.
Pros
- Patented dual jaw-locking system.
- Assure proper and secure towing.
- Offer whole truck bed space for maximum hauling.
- Perfect for level towing.
Cons
- Check the package if there is any missing parts.
FAQs
Does this hitch include brackets and hardware?
No.
Does it come with legs?
Yes.
5. Pulliam Enterprises Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | Pulliam Enterprises |
| Weight | 265 Pounds |
| GTW | 24,000 lb |
| VTW | 6,000 lb |
If you want a heavy-duty fifth wheel hitch for a shorter bed for towing heavier loads, invest in this model confidently. This Pulliam Enterprises, Inc. 2300 fifth wheel hitch has maximum 24000 lbs GTW rating and a max 6000 lb pin weight to meet your demanding towing need if the vehicle allows it.
Though this fifth-wheel hitch cost a considerably higher price, its automatically sliding design and hassle-free operation make the attachment make it still worthwhile.
Automatic Sliding Design
This high-end fifth wheel hitch slides automatically to ensure hassle-free towing.
Whether you have a shorter bed that is 6 feet or want to install under bed gooseneck hitch, this 5th wheel hitch will fit your needs.
Convenient Operation
With an automatically closing locking jaw and latch handle, This fifth-wheel hitch is a perfect solution for effortless and tool-free operation.
Even you don’t need to dirty the truck bed by reaching over its high side as it doesn’t need any secondary locking device for engaging.
Secure Connection
Its accurate and laser-cut jaw parts crib the kingpin 140 degrees to ensure a tight and secure fit.
Hence the rider will have the best towing possible. In addition, its adjustable tension bolts avoid chucking or bumping.
Pros
- Comes fully assembled.
- 18″ of fully automatic slide.
- Ensure a smoother and more secure ride.
- Effortless and tool-free operation.
Cons
- A bit pricy option.
FAQs
Is this an auto slide?
Yes.
Does it come fully assembled?
Almost.
6. B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3300 Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | B&W Trailer Hitches |
| Weight | 16 Ounces |
| GTW | 20,000 lb |
| VTW | 5,000 lb |
This is another best fifth wheel hitches for short beds in your list from Trailer Hitches.
Compared to the previous one, this model is a bit pricier and lighter while having the same GTW and VTW ratings.
This Companion hitch is also famous for its graceful installation and removal.
It also ensures reliable connection and smooth towing along with three coupler positions for perfect hoot-up.
Effortless Operation
This fifth wheel hitch for ford’s short bed has a cam-actuated latching system and comes in a two-piece design.
Hence you won’t need much effort and skill to install or remove this fifth wheel hitch.
Tough Connection
Construct with one-inch thick cast locking jaws, this B&W fifth wheel hitch ensures strong connection and super smooth towing.
Adjustable Coupler
The fifth wheel hitch for the short bed allows adjusting in three different coupler positions for convenient towing.
In addition, the truck attachment also includes easy assembly instructions that help complete the assembling and hooking job within an hour.
Pros
- Easy to hook up the trailer.
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Quicker and effortless operation.
- Offer Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Cons
- A bit difficult to determine the required height above the ground.
FAQs
Does this come in a slider?
Yes.
Does this have the side to side pivot?
Yes.
7. CURT 16516 5th Wheel Slider Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | CURT |
| Weight | 102.8 pounds |
| GTW | 16,000 lbs |
| VTW | 4,000 lbs |
This CURT 16516 5th Wheel Hitch is another best-value 5th-wheel sliding hitch for Short Bed Trucks.
This ergonomic hitch can make the towing job smoother and quieter while withstanding weather elements.
So if you need a towing attachment for light to medium towing jobs throughout the year with efficient and convenient operation, this model won’t disappoint you.
More importantly, this fifth wheel hitch offers a variety of motions and lots of space to get an RV or other compatible vehicle around any turn.
Stable Towing
This budget-friendly fifth wheel hitch has a dual pivoting head to offer 10 degrees of lateral motion. As a result, you’ll have stable and smooth towing even on a long trip.
Auto Lock
The towing attachment features an automatic locking coupler, making the coupling job more efficient and secure.
Its anti-rattle design also helps lower the vibration and rattling at the coupling point.
Versatile Fit
This fifth wheel hitch for a short bed includes a roller to allow you to get 12 inches of extra clearance after mounting on a short bed truck.
It can also be mounted onto any industry-standard 5th-wheel hitch rails using brackets and rails that need to buy separately.
Pros
- Ensure simple and secure coupling.
- Have four height adjustment positions.
- Comes in a versatile design.
- Ensure smooth and stable towing.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a locks pin.
FAQs
How much height of this 5th wheel?
13′ 2″.
Is this a hitch auto slider?
Yes.
8. Pulliam Enterprises 2900 Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | Pulliam Enterprises |
| Weight | 183 pounds |
| GTW | 20,000 pounds |
| VTW | 4,000lbs |
This Pulliam Enterprises 2900 sliding fifth wheel hitch will save your valuable time to remove it from your truck while doing mode switching manually.
Even this 14 inch automatic sliding hitch will eliminate the need of doing dirty work after towing, making it the perfect fifth wheel hitch for a short bed.
The hitch also stands 18.5 inches to the hitch plate top so you can get enough clearance between the trailer’s leading edge and the truck’s cab.
Hence you’ll have the most convenient towing operation.
Smoother Ride
The dual articulating head of this fifth wheel hitch smoothly moves front to back and side to side.
Hence you’ll have quieter and most smooth riding during towing.
Convenient Maintenance
This fifth wheel hitch doesn’t have any secondary locking devices to connect.
It means you won’t have to reach over the high-sided truck bed and can keep the bed clean.
It also has an extended handle for efficient maintenance without riding over the bed.
Secure Hook Up
This attachment comes with tight-fitting components and adjustable tension bolt.
Combine these; you’ll get the best towing experience without chucking or bumping.
Pros
- Stands 18.5″ to the top of the hitch plate.
- Comes fully assembled.
- Have precise and laser-cut jaw components.
- Fully automatic slide.
Cons
- It’s a bit difficult to torque the large bolts.
FAQs
Does this come with a cover?
No.
What is the height of the hitch?
18.5 inches.
9. PullRite Single Point Hitch Fifth Wheel
Specifications
| Brand Name | PullRite |
| Weight | 153 Pounds |
| GTW | 24,000 pounds |
| VTW |
Seeking an extremely durable and reliable fifth wheel hitch for towing your heavier items? You can buy this PullRite Single Point Hitch Fifth Wheel.
Unlike the typical model, this fifth wheel hitch is made of solid American steel to offer unbeatable toughness and reliability while towing 24000 lbs.
Even this model also effectively reduces the bumping and chucking amount that most RV’ers experience during towing.
This truck attachment also comes at a resealable price and is proudly made in the USA.
Efficient Operation
This fifth wheel hitch has a dual articulating, automatically-locking hitch plate that is extremely easy to remove using only two pins and clips.
It also has a self-latching handle that helps clean your short bed keeping you away from it.
Durable Construction
Made of high-grade American steel, this fifth wheel hitch is fairly lightweight while much stronger than a typical aluminum-made one.
It also allows mounting straight to the vehicle’s OE puck mounting system.
Bed Saver Rails
These durable bed-saver rails protect the truck bed from getting damaged due to the movement of the hitch base.
The reason is that this part isn’t attached. Instead, it performs freely to protect your truck’s short bed from hitch movement.
Pros
- Easy and light to remove.
- Very stronger than aluminum-made hitch.
- Feature multiple height adjustments.
- Comes at a decent price.
Cons
- Check the packaging after receives if any parts are missing.
FAQs
Where this hitch is made of?
United States.
What is the dimension of the package?
32.5 L x19.5 H x24 W.
10. Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch
Specifications
| Brand Name | Reese |
| Weight | 137 Pounds |
| GTW | 18,000 lbs |
| VTW | 4,500 lbs |
Lastly, we have Reese Elite 30142 Fifth Wheel Hitch which is perfect for a short-bed truck with medium towing capacity.
The truck attachment comes pre-assembled and ensures a secure fit with a quick-lock mounting mechanism.
It also features a strong single jaw to maximize the connection with the kingpin to remain in place most securely while towing heavy loads.
The attachment is also convenient to install within an hour while its handy instruction guideline help makes the process accurate.
Reduce Slop
Compared to the pin-mount system, this fifth wheel hitch effectively reduces slop to avoid causing difficulty while towing for a long time.
Thanks to its quick-lock mount system and lockable extended-length handle.
Increased Stability
This fifth wheel hitch comes with a wider footprint to ensure improved stability.
However, you have to use a sidewinder to fit this attachment on 6 feet or shorter bed.
Quicker Installation
Comes pre-assembled, and this Fifth Wheel Hitch will help you complete the installation within 60 minutes.
In addition, the package includes a wrench and folding tab washer for secure and precise installation.
Pros
- Its low weight maximizes payload.
- Easy to install within an hour.
- Increased kingpin and jaw contact.
- Ensure increased stability.
Cons
- Need some medication to fit in a shorter bed.
FAQs
Where are these made?
China.
How much wide kingpin funnel area it has?
9 inch.
FAQs about Best Fifth Wheel Hitch
Is The Sliding Hitch Fifth Wheel Hitch Compulsory For A Short Bed?
Sliding fifth wheel hitch isn’t must have for a 6.5-foot bed however mostly preferable for shorter bed trucks.
In general, there is also a specific requirement for a 5th wheel hitch for a typical truck bed size.
Instead, it largely depends on the width of the trailer.
Can You Connect A 5th Wheel With An F150 Short Bed?
A ford f150 can technically tow a 5th wheel recreational vehicle, however, it isn’t recommended.
The fifth wheel hitch is quite larger and its tow capacity is almost close to the unsafe level of the ford.
So doing so will be a risky decision and might not offer better control over the trailer.
Does A Fifth Wheel Hitch Need Lots Of Maintenance?
The maintenance need for a fifth-wheel hitch varies based on its design and style.
the vital part of fifth wheel hitch maintenance is lubrication.
Luckily we’ve reviewed some high-end 5th-wheel hitches that don’t require much maintenance.
Final Words
Choosing the best fifth wheel hitch for a short bed is obviously a great decision to increase its versatility over towing applications.
It also helps maximize the performance of the least space.
However not all fifth wheel hitches are compatible with a shot bed and its towing capacity and this is where you’ll find those models handy.
These fit with most short beds and the owner’s budget while varying its convenience and longevity.
Hope those models are enough for you to decide on the best fifth wheel hitch for your shorter-bed truck.