Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For F150 Short Bed

Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For F150 Short Bed: 10 Options Compared

A strong fifth wheel hitch for an F150 short bed needs a suitable truck-bed mounting system and a way to provide turning clearance; it suits owners towing a fifth-wheel trailer who need to match both. The PullRite 2714 is the most directly specified fit here: it is designed for Ford short beds with factory pucks and slides automatically. Other options include Ford-prep hitches from B&W and Demco, plus CURT and PullRite sliders with stated capacities from 16,000 to 20,000 pounds.

These products are not interchangeable by name alone: some require Ford pucks, a particular under-bed system, a separate head, or a capture plate. Compare your F150’s bed length and mounting setup with the hitch’s stated compatibility before choosing, and confirm the trailer’s loaded requirements separately.

The PullRite 2714 OE Puck Series SuperGlide leads because its listed application directly matches Ford short-bed trucks with factory puck systems. It automatically slides and provides 14 inches of travel, making it the clearest fit among these options for an F150 with the specified setup. Its stated capacity is 16,000 pounds, and it requires a capture plate, so confirm your truck’s puck configuration and trailer requirements before buying.

Our Top Picks

PullRite 2714 SuperGlideBest Overall

PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

Designed for Ford short beds with factory pucks, it automatically slides and provides 14 inches of travel; it requires a capture plate.

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B&W Companion OEM SliderFord Puck Fit

B&W Companion OEM Slider

Fits the Ford OEM hitch platform and provides 12 inches of slide; its two-piece design and cam-actuated latch aid installation and removal.

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Demco 21K AutoslideHighest Capacity

Demco 21K Autoslide

The 21,000-pound Autoslide is made for the Ford Prep Package and uses under-bed mounting, rack-and-pinion sliding, and three height adjustments.

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Compare fit, travel, capacity, and required components

#ProductWeightMaterialCompatible with Vehicle TypeBuy
1216 lbAlloy SteelTruckView on Amazon
2267 lbPolyurethaneTruckView on Amazon
3
Demco 21K Autoslide3. Demco 21K AutoslideHighest Capacity
—Alloy Steel, Stainless SteelTrailer, TrucksView on Amazon
4
CURT A20 Slider4. CURT A20 SliderQuiet Towing
212 lbAlloy SteelTruckView on Amazon
5
CURT S20 Slider5. CURT S20 SliderAuto-latching 20K slider
109.4 lbCarbon SteelTruckView on Amazon
6175 lbAlloy SteelTrailer, TruckView on Amazon
7
CURT E16 Slider7. CURT E16 SliderSimple manual-slider operation
171 lbAlloy SteelTruckView on Amazon
8
CURT A16 Slider8. CURT A16 Slider16K slider with quiet coupling
—Alloy SteelTruckView on Amazon
9
Andersen Ultimate Toolbox9. Andersen Ultimate ToolboxLightweight gooseneck-base connection
45 lbAluminumTruckView on Amazon
10
B&W Companion RVK350010. B&W Companion RVK3500Turnoverball-system Companion
16 ozAlloy SteelTruckView on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For F150 Short Bed

PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

#1 · Best Overall

1. PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

  • Weight: 216 lb
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Automatic slide for Ford pucks.

Why it ranks #1: Designed for Ford short beds with factory pucks, it automatically slides and provides 14 inches of travel; it requires a capture plate.

Automatic sliding with 14 inches of travel gives the PullRite 2714 a clear role for select Ford short-bed trucks with factory puck systems. The OE Puck Series hitch attaches at those mounting points and moves during turns, helping provide clearance without manually repositioning a slider.

The hitch is specifically listed for Ford 6.5-foot beds with puck systems, and its direct attachment to the factory mounting points avoids adapter rails. Its automatic SuperGlide action can make turning workflow simpler than a manually adjusted slider. A capture plate is required, however, so that component is part of the setup rather than an optional detail. At 216 pounds, installation also calls for planning around a heavy hitch.

Pros
  • Automatic sliding operation
  • 14 inches of travel
  • Direct attachment to Ford OE puck mounting points
  • Specified for select Ford 6.5-foot short beds
Cons
  • A capture plate is required for operation.

Skip it if you do not have the specified Ford puck setup or capture plate; the CURT 16531 offers another short-bed slider configuration.

This PullRite suits an F-150 owner with a compatible Ford factory puck system who wants automatic travel through turns. Its stated application is select Ford 6.5-foot beds, and a capture plate is required before the hitch is ready to operate.

Full product details
BrandPullRite
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsMain component only
Item Weight216 pounds
ManufacturerPullRite
Part Number2714
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionPlease contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt.
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number2714

Listed on Amazon as: PullRite 2714 OE Puck Series 16K SuperGlide Automatically Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Select Ford 6.5 ft. Truck Beds

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B&W Companion OEM Slider

#2 · Ford Puck Fit

2. B&W Companion OEM Slider

  • Weight: 267 lb
  • Material: Polyurethane
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Ford OEM platform with 12-inch slide.

Why it ranks #2: Fits the Ford OEM hitch platform and provides 12 inches of slide; its two-piece design and cam-actuated latch aid installation and removal.

A 12-inch slide paired with Ford OEM puck compatibility makes the B&W Companion RVK3370 a targeted option for short-bed F-150 owners with the factory hitch platform. Its two-piece design and cam-actuated latch support installation and removal without an adapter rail setup.

The Companion fits the Ford OEM hitch platform, and the two-piece design with cam-actuated latching is described as making installation and removal effortless. During turns, the 12 inches of slide provide additional clearance for a short bed. One-inch-thick cast-locking jaws create a strong connection, while the listing associates them with a smooth ride. At 267 pounds, the hitch is heavy to move, so the removable two-piece arrangement does not eliminate the need to plan handling.

Pros
  • Compatible with Ford OEM hitch platform
  • 12 inches of slide for turning clearance
  • Two-piece design with cam-actuated latching
  • One-inch-thick cast-locking jaws
Cons
  • At 267 pounds, the hitch is heavy to move.

Skip it if you need a lighter connection; the Andersen Ultimate Toolbox Model is listed at 45 pounds and uses a gooseneck base.

The RVK3370 fits buyers using Ford’s OEM puck platform who want a removable two-piece hitch and 12 inches of slide. Its 267-pound weight is a real handling consideration, even with the cam-actuated latch and two-piece construction.

Full product details
BrandB&W
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Item Weight267 pounds
ManufacturerB&W Trailer Hitches
Part NumberRVK3370
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty
MaterialPolyurethane
Model NumberRVK3370

Listed on Amazon as: B&W Trailer Hitches Companion OEM Slider Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with Ford OEM Puck System – RVK3370

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Demco 21K Autoslide

#3 · Highest Capacity

3. Demco 21K Autoslide

  • Material: Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer, Trucks

Best for: Ford Prep Package autoslider.

Why it ranks #3: The 21,000-pound Autoslide is made for the Ford Prep Package and uses under-bed mounting, rack-and-pinion sliding, and three height adjustments.

The Demco 8550038 combines a 21,000-pound rating with an Autoslide mechanism for trucks equipped with the Ford Prep Package. Its rack-and-pinion slide and under-bed mounting system aim to provide turning movement while leaving the bed clear when the hitch is removed.

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The Autoslide’s rack-and-pinion gear technology moves the hitch without requiring the driver to get out and pull a pin or manually slide it, according to the product description. Its wraparound jaw with locking bar supports a secure connection, and standard pin boxes do not require a locking plate to activate the slide. Three vertical height adjustments help level truck and trailer. The Ford Prep Package application is specific, and the under-bed mount leaves the truck bed free and clear after removal.

Pros
  • 21,000-pound capacity
  • Rack-and-pinion Autoslide operation
  • No locking plate required for standard pin boxes
  • Three vertical height adjustments
Cons
  • Its stated mounting application is the Ford Prep Package.

Skip it if your truck does not have the Ford Prep Package; the CURT 16531 is listed more generally as a short-bed slider hitch.

The Demco suits Ford Prep Package owners seeking automatic sliding, height adjustment, and a removable under-bed mount. Its stated Ford-specific mounting application is the key fit boundary, while the clear-bed benefit applies when the hitch is removed.

Full product details
BrandDemco
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTrailer, Trucks
Included ComponentsDemco 8550038 21K Autoslide Ultra-Series Under Bed Mount 5th Wheel Hitch with Ford Prep Package
ManufacturerDemco
Part Number8550038
MaterialAlloy Steel, Stainless Steel
Model Number8550038

Listed on Amazon as: Demco 8550038 21K Autoslide Ultra-Series Under Bed Mount 5th Wheel Hitch with Ford Prep Package

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CURT A20 Slider

#4 · Quiet Towing

4. CURT A20 Slider

  • Weight: 212 lb
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Quiet towing with shock control.

Why it ranks #4: This short-bed slider is rated for 20,000 pounds and pairs interlocking jaws with a cast yoke and poly-torsion inserts to reduce noise.

A cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts helps suppress shock loads and reduce noise, giving short-bed F-150 owners a quieter towing setup to consider. The CURT A20 pairs that cushioning with a fully articulating torsion head and a 20,000-pound rating for controlled coupling and stable towing.

The interlocking jaws fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise, while the extra-wide head opening makes coupling easier. After uncoupling, the lockable handle resets to the ready-to-couple position, simplifying the next hookup. Its 20,000-pound capacity and short-bed slider format address both towing strength and turning clearance needs. At 212 pounds, it is a substantial hitch to handle during installation or removal, so plan for that weight in your setup workflow.

Pros
  • 20,000-pound towing capacity
  • Poly-torsion inserts help suppress shock loads and noise
  • Fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling
  • Self-resetting handle and wide opening ease hookup
Cons
  • At 212 pounds, it is heavy to handle during installation or removal.

Skip it if you need an automatically sliding hitch; the PullRite 2714 provides automatic sliding for select Ford puck systems.

Choose this CURT for a short-bed F-150 setup where 20,000-pound capacity, noise control, and a self-resetting handle matter. Its 212-pound weight is a practical handling consideration, and the truck’s mounting arrangement still needs to suit the hitch.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsA20 5th Wheel Hitch
Item Weight212 pounds
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number16531
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number16531
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs

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CURT S20 Slider

#5

5. CURT S20 Slider

  • Weight: 109.4 lb
  • Material: Carbon Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Auto-latching 20K slider.

Why it ranks #5: The 20,000-pound short-bed slider provides 12 inches of displacement and auto-latches, but the listing says a head is required.

Twelve inches of slider displacement give the CURT S20 additional turning clearance for short-bed trucks, while its auto-latch engages when the truck moves forward after the lever is set. The 20,000-pound capacity makes it an option for buyers seeking substantial capacity with automatic slider locking.

The S20’s automatic locking sequence can simplify hookup by avoiding repeated exits from the truck to lock the slider. Its 12 inches of displacement move the coupling point to add turning clearance, addressing short-bed trailer-obstruction concerns. The hitch ships factory assembled, which can reduce assembly work before installation, and the listing notes industry-standard mounting points. The title specifies that a head is required, so the slider alone is not a complete hitch setup.

Pros
  • 20,000-pound capacity
  • 12 inches of displacement for turning clearance
  • Auto-latches when driven forward after setting the lever
  • Ships factory assembled
Cons
  • A head is required; the slider alone is not a complete hitch.

Skip it if you need a complete hitch including the head; the CURT 16531 is listed as an A20 slider hitch.

Choose the S20 for a short-bed truck when 20,000-pound capacity, 12 inches of travel, and auto-latching suit your needs. It is a slider component rather than a complete hitch, so account for the required head in the setup.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsS20 5th Wheel Slider
Item Weight109.4 pounds
ManufacturerCURT
Part Number16564
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Year Parts)
MaterialCarbon Steel
Model Number16564
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16564 S20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs (Head Required)

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PullRite 4100 SuperGlide

#6 · Automatic Sliding

6. PullRite 4100 SuperGlide

  • Weight: 175 lb
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer, Truck

Best for: Automatic travel for turning.

Why it ranks #6: Its 16,000-pound SuperGlide moves up to 14 inches automatically while turning, serving short-bed truck owners seeking hands-free slider movement.

The PullRite 4100 automatically moves up to 14 inches while turning, giving short-bed truck owners added clearance without manually adjusting a slider. Its 16,000-pound capacity and automatic operation target buyers who want turning travel integrated into the hitch’s workflow.

The listing says the SuperGlide travels 14 inches during a turn, described as 50 percent farther than manually adjusted slider designs. That movement can reduce the need to stop and reposition the hitch to gain turning clearance. Its 16,000-pound rating sets the stated towing capacity, while the automatic operation distinguishes its use from a manual slider. The supplied information does not identify a specific factory puck system, so the hitch’s mounting configuration needs attention during selection.

Pros
  • 16,000-pound capacity
  • Automatic operation while turning
  • Up to 14 inches of travel
  • Listed travel is 50 percent farther than manually adjusted slider designs
Cons
  • The supplied listing does not specify a factory-puck mounting configuration.

Skip it if you need a hitch explicitly listed for Ford factory pucks; the PullRite 2714 names that mounting system and Ford application.

Choose the 4100 if automatic 14-inch turning travel and a 16,000-pound rating suit your short-bed towing plans. Its supplied details do not name a factory-puck configuration, so verify that its mounting arrangement matches the truck before choosing it.

Full product details
BrandPullRite
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTrailer, Truck
Included ComponentsPulliam Enterprises, Inc. 4100 Pullrite Superglide 16K 5Th Hitch For Short Bed Trucks
Item Weight175 pounds
ManufacturerPullrite
Part Number4100
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionPlease contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt.
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number4100
Additional InformationImportant Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
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Listed on Amazon as: PullRite 4100 16K SuperGlide 5th Wheel Hitch

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CURT E16 Slider

#7

7. CURT E16 Slider

  • Weight: 171 lb
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Simple manual-slider operation.

Why it ranks #7: The 16,000-pound short-bed slider pivots on dual axes for 10 degrees of lateral movement and automatically locks for coupling.

A single-handle operation with few moving parts makes the CURT E16 a straightforward choice for short-bed truck owners who want a 16,000-pound slider hitch. Its dual-axis pivoting allows 10 degrees of lateral movement, while automatic locking supports easy, secure coupling.

The E16’s anti-rattle skid plate helps reduce noise during towing, addressing a common nuisance through a listed feature rather than extra setup steps. Dual-axis pivoting gives the head 10 degrees of lateral movement, which supports articulation as the truck and trailer move. The single handle and few moving parts keep coupling controls uncomplicated. For additional truck-bed travel, the listing identifies the S20 slider as providing 12 inches, but that is a separate model reference.

Pros
  • 16,000-pound capacity
  • Dual-axis pivoting with 10 degrees of lateral movement
  • Automatic locking supports secure coupling
  • Anti-rattle skid plate helps reduce noise
Cons
  • The listed E16 features do not specify an automatic sliding mechanism.

Skip it if you want automatic turning clearance without manually adjusting the slider; the PullRite 2714 is listed as automatically sliding.

Consider the E16 for a short-bed truck when 16,000-pound capacity, uncomplicated single-handle operation, and head articulation fit your priorities. The supplied details do not specify automatic slider movement, so account for that distinction in your turning-clearance workflow.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsE16 5th Wheel Hitch
Item Weight171 pounds
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number16511
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number16511
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16511 E16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 16,000 lbs

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CURT A16 Slider

#8

8. CURT A16 Slider

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: 16K slider with quiet coupling.

Why it ranks #8: This 16,000-pound short-bed slider includes base rails and features a torsion head and interlocking jaws; verify the mounting setup for your F150.

The CURT A16 combines a 16,000-pound rating with a cast yoke and poly-torsion inserts that help suppress shock loads and reduce noise. Its short-bed slider format adds turning-clearance capability, while an extra-wide head opening helps make coupling easier.

High-strength interlocking jaws fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise, and the fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling and stable towing. After uncoupling, the lockable handle resets to the ready-to-couple position, helping prepare the hitch for the next connection. The product description also lists a three-position coupling indicator visible from the cab. The included base rails are identified in the title, and the 16,000-pound capacity is below the 20,000-pound A20 listing.

Pros
  • 16,000-pound towing capacity
  • Poly-torsion inserts help suppress shock loads and noise
  • Interlocking jaws wrap the kingpin
  • Three-position coupling indicator visible from the cab
Cons
  • Its 16,000-pound capacity is below the listed 20,000-pound CURT A20.

Skip it if you need the listed 20,000-pound capacity; the CURT 16531 A20 provides that rating with similar shock-control features.

The A16 fits short-bed truck owners seeking a 16,000-pound slider with noise-control features, an easy-coupling opening, and a visible indicator. Its capacity is the key boundary, so match it to the trailer’s requirements before selecting it.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsA16 5th Wheel Hitch
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number16053
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye
MaterialAlloy Steel
Maximum Towing Capacity7257.47 kg
Model Number16053
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16053 A16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch with Base Rails for Short Bed Trucks, 16,000 lbs

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Andersen Ultimate Toolbox

#9

9. Andersen Ultimate Toolbox

  • Weight: 45 lb
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Lightweight gooseneck-base connection.

Why it ranks #9: The 24,000-pound connection is described for short-bed trucks and works with standard gooseneck hitches, but the listing does not specify Ford puck fit.

At 45 pounds, the aluminum Andersen Ultimate Toolbox Model is much lighter than the listed conventional hitch options, while providing a 24,000-pound GTWR. Its remote latch cable enables uncoupling without climbing into the truck bed, and two height settings help tailor the connection.

The base works with standard brands of gooseneck hitches, making the existing gooseneck setup central to compatibility. Two positions place the top of the ball mount 16 1/2 or 18 5/16 inches above the truck bed, offering adjustment when matching truck and trailer height. The remote latch/unlatch cable also changes the uncoupling routine by letting the operator release the connection from outside the bed. The 4,500-pound tongue-weight figure is a separate listed limit to consider.

Pros
  • 24,000-pound GTWR
  • Aluminum construction and 45-pound listed weight
  • Remote latch cable allows release without entering the bed
  • Two ball-mount height positions
Cons
  • Requires a standard gooseneck hitch as its base connection.

Skip it if you lack a gooseneck hitch; the CURT 16531 is listed as a short-bed slider hitch rather than a gooseneck-base connection.

This Andersen suits buyers who already use a standard gooseneck hitch and value a lighter, remotely released fifth-wheel connection. Check the two available height positions against the truck and trailer arrangement, and keep the 4,500-pound tongue-weight limit in view.

Full product details
BrandAndersen Hitches
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included Components1 item
Item Weight45 pounds
ManufacturerAndersen Manufacturing
Part Number3220-TBX
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLifetime Manufacturer Warranty
MaterialAluminum
Model Number3220

Listed on Amazon as: ANDERSEN HITCHES | Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection (Toolbox Model) | 13" Tall Base, 24,000 lbs GTWR, 4,500 LBS Tongue Weight | 3220-TBX

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B&W Companion RVK3500

#10

10. B&W Companion RVK3500

  • Weight: 16 oz
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck

Best for: Turnoverball-system Companion.

Why it ranks #10: Its 20,000-pound rating and articulating head are useful, but it attaches to a Turnoverball system and the listing does not specify short-bed sliding.

Compatibility with B&W’s Turnoverball under-bed mounting system lets the Companion RVK3500 use one truck-bed system for either a fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch. Its fully articulating head pivots front to back and side to side, helping the connection move with the truck and trailer.

The RVK3500’s cam-action latching handle is intended to ease release, including when parked on an unlevel site. Polyurethane bushings help provide quiet, rattle-free towing, while the articulating head pivots in two directions. Its listed 20,000-pound gross trailer weight and 5,000-pound vertical tongue weight establish the stated capacities. The key fit consideration is the Turnoverball system: this Companion attaches to that under-bed mounting system rather than being described as a Ford OEM puck hitch.

Pros
  • 20,000-pound gross trailer weight capacity
  • 5,000-pound vertical tongue weight capacity
  • Head pivots front to back and side to side
  • Polyurethane bushings help reduce rattling
Cons
  • Requires B&W’s Turnoverball under-bed mounting system.

Skip it if you have Ford OEM pucks rather than a Turnoverball system; the B&W RVK3370 is listed for the Ford OEM platform.

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This Companion suits truck owners with a B&W Turnoverball system who want a dual-pivoting head and listed 20,000-pound capacity. Its defining boundary is mounting compatibility: the supplied information specifies Turnoverball attachment, not a Ford OEM puck fit.

Full product details
BrandB&W
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Item Weight16 ounces
ManufacturerB&W Trailer Hitches
Part NumberRVK3500
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model NumberRVK3500

Listed on Amazon as: B&W Trailer Hitches Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500

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Avoiding short-bed clearance and mounting mismatches

The most consequential compatibility trap is treating “short bed” as enough to establish that a hitch will fit your F150. The PullRite 2714 specifies Ford short beds with puck systems, while the B&W Companion OEM Slider specifies the Ford OEM platform and the Demco Autoslide specifies the Ford Prep Package. By contrast, the CURT sliders are identified for short-bed trucks but their supplied details do not confirm a particular Ford mounting interface.

Check the truck’s factory mount and the hitch’s exact fitment before ordering. A second trap is overlooking components: the PullRite 2714 requires a capture plate, the CURT S20 says a head is required, and the CURT A16 listing says it comes with base rails.

Verify what is included and what your trailer or installation needs; do not assume one hitch’s required parts apply to another.

Automatic sliding versus manual clearance management

Automatic sliding can reduce the need to stop and reposition a hitch, but the products here differ in how they achieve clearance. The PullRite 2714 provides 14 inches of automatic travel and the PullRite 4100 also moves up to 14 inches automatically while turning. The Demco 21K Autoslide is described as requiring no manual pin-pulling, and it uses rack-and-pinion technology.

The B&W Companion OEM Slider instead specifies 12 inches of slide, without the supplied details describing automatic operation. CURT’s E16 listing describes a slider and notes that the S20 model provides 12 inches of travel, while the S20 listing itself calls its operation automatic.

Choose by the hitch’s exact model and stated operation, then confirm the clearance required by your trailer; travel figures alone do not prove a particular truck-and-trailer combination will clear.

How to Choose an F150 Short-Bed Fifth Wheel Hitch

Ford mounting system compatibility

Start by matching the hitch to the mounting system actually installed in your F150. The PullRite 2714 specifies Ford short beds with puck systems; the B&W Companion OEM Slider fits the Ford OEM hitch platform, and the Demco 21K Autoslide is for the Ford Prep Package. These are more explicit applications than the general short-bed descriptions on the CURT slider models.

A truck with the matching factory pucks or prep package may favour one of the Ford-specific options; a truck using another setup needs a hitch and any required mounting hardware confirmed for that configuration. Do not infer compatibility just because both a truck and hitch are described as Ford or short-bed products.

Slider travel and operation

Look at both the amount of travel and whether the hitch slides automatically. Listed travel ranges from 12 inches on the B&W Companion OEM Slider and CURT S20 to 14 inches on the PullRite 2714 and PullRite 4100; the E16 listing mentions 12 inches for the S20 slider, not for the E16 itself. The PullRite models describe automatic movement, and the Demco is an Autoslide; the B&W listing specifies slide travel without stating automatic operation.

Buyers who want an explicitly automatic option can favour the PullRite or Demco listings. Those considering the B&W should evaluate its stated 12-inch slide and confirm the operating procedure and clearance needs for their setup.

Capacity and included setup components

Choose a hitch whose stated capacity and required components suit the actual truck-and-trailer combination. Listed capacities range from 16,000 pounds for the PullRite 2714 and CURT E16 to 21,000 pounds for the Demco Autoslide and 24,000 pounds GTWR for the Andersen Ultimate Toolbox. The CURT A20 and S20 are rated at 20,000 pounds.

Higher numbers do not by themselves establish that a hitch is right for a particular F150 or trailer, so verify loaded weights and all vehicle limits. Also account for setup details: the PullRite 2714 requires a capture plate, the CURT S20 requires a head, and the CURT A16 listing includes base rails.

Buyers should favour a capacity and component combination that matches their verified configuration.

Which Fifth Wheel Hitch Fits My F150 Short Bed?

For an F150 with Ford factory pucks and a 6.5-foot bed, start with the PullRite 2714 SuperGlide: it explicitly targets Ford short beds with pucks and offers automatic 14-inch travel, but requires a capture plate. If your truck has the Ford OEM platform and you want a stated 12 inches of slide, consider the B&W Companion OEM Slider. For a Ford Prep Package and a higher stated capacity, the Demco 21K Autoslide is the most directly specified 21,000-pound option.

For a general short-bed slider rated at 20,000 pounds, compare the CURT A20 Slider and CURT S20 Slider, noting that the S20 requires a head. Confirm mounting compatibility, components, capacity, and actual turning clearance before selecting any model.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I confirm which Ford puck system is installed in my F150?

Check the truck’s owner documents or build information for the factory fifth-wheel prep package, then inspect the bed for the matching puck layout. If the configuration is unclear, confirm it with a Ford dealer or hitch installer before choosing a puck-mounted hitch; compatibility depends on the truck’s actual mounting system.

How much turning clearance does my fifth-wheel trailer need in an F150 short bed?

There is no single clearance figure that fits every truck and trailer. Check the trailer’s front profile, hitch location, bed length, and the hitch’s available slide travel, then verify turning clearance using the actual combination. Follow the hitch and trailer manufacturers’ guidance and avoid assuming that a slider alone guarantees cab clearance.

What should I check to match hitch capacity to my loaded trailer and truck?

Compare the hitch’s stated capacity with the trailer’s loaded weight, and check the truck’s payload and axle limits against the loaded pin weight. Use the ratings for the exact truck, hitch, and trailer configuration, including any required components. Do not rely on an unloaded trailer figure or hitch capacity alone.

When is a capture plate needed with a SuperGlide hitch?

The PullRite 2714 listed here requires a capture plate. Confirm which plate matches your trailer and hitch configuration before buying, and check the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Do not assume the plate is included or that another SuperGlide model has the same requirements.

What should I verify when a slider hitch requires a separate head?

Check that you have the compatible head required for the hitch, along with the correct mounting system for your truck. The CURT S20 listing specifies that a head is required. Confirm included components and fitment for your exact configuration before selecting it.

Final Words

For an F150 with factory pucks and a 6.5-foot bed, the PullRite 2714 is the clearest listed match: it specifies Ford short-bed puck fitment, automatic 14-inch travel, and a required capture plate. Consider the B&W Companion OEM Slider for its stated 12 inches of slide, or the Demco for a Ford Prep Package and stated 21,000-pound capacity. Before deciding, confirm mounting fit, required components, ratings, and turning clearance for your loaded combination.

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