A fifth wheel hitched to the bed of a pickup truck is an increasingly popular way to tow a large trailer or recreational vehicle. The setup is relatively simple, but it’s important to understand the right amount of space that should be between the truck bed and fifth wheel when coupling them together.
The space between the truck bed and fifth wheel is referred to as “clearance” or “slack.”
Generally speaking, you want to have at least four inches of clearance between the two components when they are coupled together. This ensures that your hitch is properly secured and that your trailer isn’t too close to the truck. Any less than four inches, and you run the risk of damaging your vehicle or trailer due to contact between them.
Having too much slack can also be problematic, as it can cause your trailer to sway back and forth while you drive. Too much slack can also lead to instability in the hitch connection, leading to dangerous situations on the road. The ideal amount of slack for most setups is four inches, but for some particularly heavy trailers, you may need five or even six inches of clearance.
Safety Precautions
It’s important that you follow all safety precautions when setting up your fifth wheel hitch. Always check all connections before driving off with your trailer in tow, and make sure that there is enough slack between the truck bed and fifth wheel so that there isn’t any contact between them.
If you’re unsure how much clearance is needed for your particular setup, consult with a professional who knows how much space should be between the truck bed and fifth wheel for your vehicle. They will be able to give you an accurate estimate so that you can ensure a safe trip.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to understand how much space should be between your truck bed and fifth wheel when coupling them together. Generally speaking, you want at least four inches of clearance between them; any more than that could lead to problems with swaying or instability in the hitch connection. Be sure to always follow safety precautions when setting up your hitch connection, and if in doubt consult a professional for advice on how much space should be between your truck bed and fifth wheel.
