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BlackSS's avatar
BlackSS
Explorer
Jun 16, 2013

Auto slider Question

Hello, new guy here. Have a question regarding hitch for my new F250 crew cab short bed.
I am looking for an auto slider that is relatively light weight (for removal) and will not put me in a situation where I am the only one that can pull the trailer (like pull rite).

Truck will be used for much more than towing, I do not intend to leave the 5th wheel in the bed, and wife and 2 daughters will not be too helpful trying to lug 300 lbs of iron out of the bed.

18 Replies

  • You have a lot to learn. The PullRite can be removed by one person. I do it when needed. And I am 68 years old. Tip it up and 'walk it' to the back of the truck. Drop it onto a table that I made to the same height as the tailgate. Then roll it into the garage. Five minutes and no help needed.

    The quick connect capture plate can be removed with one bolt and your trailer can be towed by any fifth wheel hitch. The universal rails can be completely removed from the truck bed.

    The Hijacker is pretty much the same. But customer service may be somewhat different.

    The Sidewinder will work too. but chances are, you need a new replacement for the next trailer you buy.

    If you want an auto slider, these are you only options. Otherwise go for a manual sliding hitch and deal with the issues with that choice. Or don't buy a sliding hitch and believe what the trailer manufacturers claim. You can turn 88 degrees with no problem. Just remember when it blows out your window, it is no problem for them. But your mileage may vary.
  • Looks like there are some overhead manual chain hoists that could be hung from fueling joist(s) for about $50. I guess if I rigged something to spread the load over a couple of joists that coulda work and be pretty cheap.
  • Bird Freak wrote:
    I don't see the big deal with the Pullrite. Mine weighs less than 200# and I can remove 1 set screw and anyone can pull my 5er. I also use a engine hoist to remove hitch. Too dang old to lift heavy stuff now.

    Really? According to the manufacturer it weighs 345 lbs plus 50 to 80 lbs for the rails. Did you modify yours?
    Pullright Manual

    I think the op is looking for lighter weight options. I use the Demco Hijacker and like the Pullright it weighs over 300lbs. I like the way it works but I had to get an engine lift to put it in the truck. Look for used engine lifts for cheap on craigslist.
  • I though the pull rite was ~350 lbs, and had no idea was that easy to remove capture plate.

    What kind of hoist for $50?
  • Bird Freak wrote:
    I don't see the big deal with the Pullrite. Mine weighs less than 200# and I can remove 1 set screw and anyone can pull my 5er. I also use a engine hoist to remove hitch. Too dang old to lift heavy stuff now.
    x2-In and out in five minutes with 50 dollar hoist in garage by myself.Drop it on a dolly and done..Pullrite plate is 4 set screws on fiver.Simple.
  • I don't see the big deal with the Pullrite. Mine weighs less than 200# and I can remove 1 set screw and anyone can pull my 5er. I also use a engine hoist to remove hitch. Too dang old to lift heavy stuff now.
  • Take a look at the Hijacker auto slider , no capture plate to monkey with, never had to lube the rails,a very good easy to use set up, my 18k is 6 yrs old and trouble free.I use an engine hoist to take mine out .
  • You might want to look at the reese sidewinder setup. From what I understand, you can use a conventional fifth wheel hitch.