Fifth Wheel Clearance

[NewLeaseOnLife]

Just picked up my new 346qbud...but I have some clearance issues. I have approx 5 1/2" clearance from the top of my bed rails but my tonneau cover frame takes up 2" so I realistically have 3 1/2". While backing into my driveway I sheared of the bulkhead door latch :S

What is my best option? Raise the hitch to the top position which is approx an additional 2" or drop the kingpin to its lowest position which will add around 1"?

I am already slightly nose high so I'm trying to get the most clearance without my new 5'er pointing to the moon.

Any input would be greatly appreciated

[GregK]

Replace the cover with a low profile model is the best (easiest and cheapest) way to fix it. My Access rollup cover has 7/8" rails.

[carpetguy2]

I have lifted truck "7 and hauling a sandpiper 345ret 39ft.
And I have 8" clearance.
Have the Reese Pro 15k hitch.

[mrwacky]

Agree, you need at least 6 inches clearance, remember, you will not always be on the flat and level while traveling.

[laknox]

NewLeaseOnLife wrote:
Just picked up my new 346qbud...but I have some clearance issues. I have approx 5 1/2" clearance from the top of my bed rails but my tonneau cover frame takes up 2" so I realistically have 3 1/2". While backing into my driveway I sheared of the bulkhead door latch :S

What is my best option? Raise the hitch to the top position which is approx an additional 2" or drop the kingpin to its lowest position which will add around 1"?

I am already slightly nose high so I'm trying to get the most clearance without my new 5'er pointing to the moon.

Any input would be greatly appreciated

Take a look at your spring shackles and see if you have any room to raise the trailer, then adjust the hitch and pin box. If not, with clearance that tight, you can realistically only raise the entire trailer. Best way to do so is to have a sub-frame built over the axles and have the hangers welded to that. Rule-of-thumb is a minimum of 6" clearance between truck bed and FW.

Lyle

[treaves]

Um... remove the tonneau cover?

Reminds me of the old joke: "A man says:Doctor, it hurts when I do 'this'. Doctor responds: don't do that."