Best fifth wheel hitches for short bed pickups offer reliable reliability, smooth operation, and easy hookup for compact truck beds. This guide highlights top options from CURT and other trusted brands, focusing on sliding designs that maximize turning clearance and reduce hitch chucking. Whether you tow occasionally or frequently, these picks are suited for light-to-heavy trailer loads and varying bed configurations. Read on to see which hitch fits your truck and towing style best, plus practical buying tips and a quick comparison table.
| Product | Bed Type | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch | Short Bed | 20,000 lbs | Best for frequent turn clearance and automatic latching |
| CURT 16574 S25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch | Short Bed | 25,000 lbs | Best for heavier trailers and solid, quiet operation |
| CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch | Short Bed | 20,000 lbs | Best for shock-load reduction and quiet performance |
| CURT 16053 A16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch | Short Bed | 16,000 lbs | Best for lighter loads with secure, smooth coupling |
| CURT 16631 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch | Short Bed | 20,000 lbs | Best for robust torsion head and quiet operation |
CURT 16574 S25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Best for heavy loads and long-term stability. This 25,000-pound-capacity hitch offers quiet operation to minimize chucking in towing position. The smooth sliding mechanism reduces binding when changing the hitch position, and it automatically latches in both directions, so you only need to exit the truck once during hookup. Choose this if you frequently tow heavy trailers and want dependable, low-effort operation. Caution: higher capacity models can be overkill for light trailers; ensure your rail system and frame can support the load.
CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Best for balanced towing and practical installation. The S20 provides 12 inches of displacement for coupling clearance in short beds, helping avoid trailer obstruction. It features AUTO-LATCH for automatic locking as you drive forward, and factory-assembled design for quick setup in beds with standard rails. This is a solid pick for owners who want reliable, automatic operation without extensive on-truck adjustment. Limitation: automatic features depend on correct alignment and may require careful initial setup.
CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Best for reduced noise and smooth coupling. The A20 model uses a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts to suppress shock loads, plus a fully articulating torsion head for controlled coupling and stable towing. The lockable handle self-resets to the ready-to-couple position after uncoupling, supporting quick rehook in busy schedules. Best for drivers who want quieter operation and reliable recoupling. Caution: torsion components may require periodic maintenance in dusty or sandy environments.
CURT 16053 A16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks
Best for value and secure coupling on lighter trailers. The A16 features a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts to reduce shock and noise, along with a fully articulating torsion head for stable towing. The lockable handle self-resets to the ready-to-couple position after uncoupling, aiding ease of use. Suitable for owners who prioritize predictable performance in smaller-to-medium trailers. Limitation: lower weight rating may not suit the heaviest loads without verifying trailer compatibility.
CURT 16631 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch with Base Rails
Best for robust performance and quiet operation. This A20 model incorporates a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts to dampen shock loads and a fully articulating torsion head for smoother coupling and stable towing. The lockable handle self-resets for quick rehook-after-uncouple cycles. Choose this when towing mid-to-large trailers with a priority on quietness and stable handling. Caution: ensure bed rails and mounting system match the hitch head’s mounting pattern.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a fifth wheel hitch for a short bed truck:
- Payload and trailer weight: Match hitch capacity to your typical trailer weight. Heavier trailers need higher-capacity hitches like the 25,000-lb model.
- Sliding vs fixed: Sliding hitches offer greater clearance in tight turns, reducing chance of contact with the cab or tailgate. Automatic latching models save trips in and out of the truck during hookup.
- Head design and noise control: Poly-torsion inserts and fully articulating torsion heads reduce shock, vibration, and noise for a smoother ride.
- Installation: Factory-assembled or easy-install rails simplify mounting. Ensure rail systems are compatible with your truck bed and brand.
- Bed compatibility: Short-bed trucks require sufficient turning clearance; verify displacement and mounting options with your specific frame and rails.
- Maintenance: Some models require periodic maintenance of torsion components and latches; check maintenance needs for long-term reliability.
FAQ
- What is the main difference between S20 and S25 hitches?
Answer: S20 and S25 refer to different sliding capacities. S25 supports heavier trailers (up to 25,000 lbs) and offers greater clearance, while S20 is suitable for up to about 20,000 lbs and balanced towing. - Why choose a sliding hitch for a short bed?
Answer: Sliding hitches provide additional turning radius, reducing the risk of trailer contact with the cab or rear of the truck during maneuvers. - Are auto-latch features beneficial for hookups?
Answer: Yes. Auto-latch automates locking as you move forward, saving trips in and out of the cab. - Do I need base rails to install a CURT fifth wheel hitch?
Answer: Most CURT options require standard base rails; confirm rail compatibility with your truck bed and hitch head. - What maintenance is typical for torsion-head hitches?
Answer: Regular inspection of the torsion head, yoke, and fasteners can prevent play, noise, and uneven wear. - Can these hitches be used on all short-bed trucks?
Answer: They are designed for short-bed configurations but require matching rails and compatible mounting points for each specific truck model.