Short bed manuvering

Another option and my solution is the Reese Sidewinder/Revolution:

Sidewinder install & demo

IMO, that's what "D" is for on the transmission. Had a slider originally w/ old truck and sold it a few years ago for a 4 way swivel head hitch. Still have newer hitch, but when I had the slider (w/ short box F250, cc), think it used a total of 2 times.

I have a pull rite auto and an older 8.6 wide rig with a flat front. I just drive and never worry about it. It's far cheaper to go with a stationary hitch but you then have to pay attention.

A lot of this question is how good you are and your ability to back the trailer. As others have said, sometimes it might be needed with the way the site is laid out and your angle of approach. Changing that approach may remove the need for a slider hitch.

I have a 6 1/2' bed and have been in some tight situation's, but have never needed a slider. IMO: you will find yourself wanting a slider occasionally.

Sliders are heavy and use up a 200 pounds of the available payload. If you go the slider route you need to be diligent in picking a fiver with as small a pin weight as you can.

Buy one...you might not need it, but if you DO need it, you have it. :)

Going forward you should have no problem. It is backing into a tight site that may be. A good friend with a short bed Chevy knocked out his back window backing his 5er into a tight spot. I would get a slider.

If you would tell us which GM truck... there might be some other options.

HFMJ wrote:
My wife and I are considering a fifth wheel. The dealer told me since I have a GMC 5 3/4' bed Id have to have a slider hitch. He said that once in a while in a tight spot in a campground I will need to slide it backwards for more room between the cab and trailer. Any experiences out there that might help me decide? Thanks

I don't think GM has recommended a GN or 5th wheel trailer with any of the 1500 5' 10" short bed trucks.
GMs online ordering guide doesn't show a 1500 crew cab under the GN/5th wheel trailer page.

I know the wifes 1500 crew cab chevy with the 5' 10" short bed isn't recommended to tow a GN or 5th wheel trailer. I did put a GN plate in the bed so I could use my GN trailers but never tried a 5th wheel hitch.

Check with GM before you buy a 5th wheel trailer. And be sure and tell who ever supplies your hitch that you have the 5' 10" short bed. No one may have one for that size bed.

Now if your GM truck is the 6' 6" std short bed then no problems.