Best Auto Sliding 5Th Wheel Hitch for Short-Bed Trucks

Best Auto Sliding 5Th Wheel Hitch

A strong auto sliding fifth-wheel hitch adds turning clearance without requiring you to stop and reposition the slider by hand, making it useful for short-bed truck owners towing a fifth-wheel trailer. The Demco 8550048 leads this group with automatic sliding, 22.5 inches of travel, and a stated 13,000-pound capacity. Other options prioritize higher capacity, factory puck compatibility, or a specific truck brand, so fit is as important as the headline rating.

This roundup includes automatic sliders and manual sliding hitches; those categories are not interchangeable if hands-free sliding is your priority. Check your truck’s bed, mounting system, trailer weight, and pin-box requirements before choosing.

Some models need a compatible capture plate, while others are designed for OEM puck systems or industry-standard rails.

The Demco 8550048 13K Autoslide is the leading choice for buyers seeking an auto sliding fifth-wheel hitch. It offers 22.5 inches of travel, industry-standard bed-rail mounting, and automatic movement without a locking plate for standard pin boxes. Its stated 13,000-pound capacity is lower than the 16,000- to 24,000-pound PullRite options, so confirm that it suits your loaded trailer.

Buyers who need a higher rating or a specific OEM puck fit should compare the compatible PullRite models instead.

Our Top Picks

Demco 13K AutoslideBest Overall

Demco 13K Autoslide

Automatic sliding provides 22.5 inches of travel, industry-standard bed-rail mounting, and no locking plate requirement for standard pin boxes.

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PullRite 2315 SuperGlideBest for Ram Pucks

PullRite 2315 SuperGlide

This automatic Ram OEM puck model pairs an 18-inch slide with a 24,000-pound gross trailer rating and 6,000-pound pin capacity.

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PullRite 2714 SuperGlideBest for Ford Pucks

PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

Designed for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with factory pucks, this automatic slider provides 14 inches of travel and a 16,000-pound rating.

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Compare Hitch Types, Fits, and Key Requirements

#ProductMaterialCompatible with Vehicle TypeMaterial TypeBuy
1Alloy SteelTrailer, TruckAlloy SteelView on Amazon
2
PullRite 2315 SuperGlide2. PullRite 2315 SuperGlideBest for Ram Pucks
Alloy SteelTrailer, TruckAlloy SteelView on Amazon
3
PullRite 2714 SuperGlide3. PullRite 2714 SuperGlideBest for Ford Pucks
Alloy SteelTruckAlloy SteelView on Amazon
4Alloy SteelTrailer, TruckAlloy SteelView on Amazon
5
CURT S20 Slider5. CURT S20 SliderShort-Bed Auto-Latch Buyers
Carbon SteelTruckCarbon SteelView on Amazon
6
CURT S25 Slider6. CURT S25 SliderHigh-Capacity Short-Bed Slider Buyers
Carbon SteelTruckCarbon SteelView on Amazon
7
Demco 21K Recon Slider7. Demco 21K Recon SliderRail-Mount Removable Hitch Buyers
Stainless SteelTruckStainless SteelView on Amazon
8
CURT A25 Slider8. CURT A25 SliderOEM Puck System Owners
Alloy SteelTruckAlloy SteelView on Amazon
9
B&W Companion OEM Slider9. B&W Companion OEM SliderRam OEM Platform Owners
polyurethaneTruckpolyurethaneView on Amazon
10
CURT A20 Slider10. CURT A20 SliderQuiet Towing And Easier Coupling
Alloy SteelTruckAlloy SteelView on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Auto Sliding 5Th Wheel Hitch

Demco 13K Autoslide

#1 · Best Overall

1. Demco 13K Autoslide

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

Best for: Tight-Space Auto-Slide Users.

Why it ranks #1: Automatic sliding provides 22.5 inches of travel, industry-standard bed-rail mounting, and no locking plate requirement for standard pin boxes.

The Demco 13K Autoslide offers 221⁄2 inches of travel, giving short-bed pickup owners substantial movement for tight turns without manually pulling a pin to slide the hitch. Its wrap-around jaw, three height adjustments, and stated 13,000-pound capacity help buyers assess connection security, leveling options, and trailer suitability.

The 221⁄2-inch travel range helps create clearance when maneuvering in tight spaces, while the automatic slide mechanism removes the need to get out and pull a pin to reposition the hitch. Its wrap-around jaw uses a locking bar for a more secure connection, and three vertical height adjustments provide options for leveling the truck and trailer. Standard pin boxes do not require a locking plate to activate the slide. It mounts to industry-standard bed rails, which are not included, and carries a 13,000-pound towing capacity.

Pros
  • 221⁄2 inches of travel
  • Automatic sliding without manually pulling a pin
  • Three vertical height adjustments
  • No locking plate required for standard pin boxes
Cons
  • Mounting rails are not included.

Skip it if you need a hitch with rails included; this above-bed model is listed with rails not included.

This suits short-bed owners prioritizing automatic movement and generous travel for tight spaces. Its 13,000-pound capacity, industry-standard rail mounting, and three height positions are relevant boundaries when matching the hitch to truck and trailer.

Full product details
BrandDemco
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTrailer, Truck
Included ComponentsDemco 8550048 13K Above-Bed Mount Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch – Rails Not Included
ManufacturerDemco
Part Number8550048
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number8550048
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

Listed on Amazon as: Demco 8550048 13K Above-Bed Mount Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch – Rails Not Included

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PullRite 2315 SuperGlide

#2 · Best for Ram Pucks

2. PullRite 2315 SuperGlide

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

Best for: Ram Puck Heavy-Trailer Owners.

Why it ranks #2: This automatic Ram OEM puck model pairs an 18-inch slide with a 24,000-pound gross trailer rating and 6,000-pound pin capacity.

The PullRite 2315 combines 18 inches of fully automatic slide with a 24,000-pound gross trailer rating, targeting Ram puck-system owners with heavier rigs. The OE puck-series hitch is designed for Ram, and removable mounting post assemblies make taking the hitch out or reinstalling it more manageable.

The 18-inch automatic slide shifts the hitch to help provide turning clearance without requiring a manual repositioning step. Its Ram OE puck-series design makes the factory mounting system central to fit, while removable post assemblies support easier hitch removal and installation. The 24,000-pound maximum gross trailer weight and 6,000-pound pin-weight capacity provide specific limits for matching a rig. A capture plate is required to activate the sliding cam arm and is sold separately, so the automatic-slide setup depends on that additional component.

Pros
  • 18 inches of fully automatic slide
  • 24,000-pound maximum gross trailer weight
  • 6,000-pound maximum pin weight
  • Removable mounting post assemblies
Cons
  • A separately sold capture plate is required to activate sliding.

Skip it if you need a hitch for a non-Ram mounting system; this SuperGlide is specified for Ram OE pucks.

This is suited to Ram OE-puck owners hauling within its 24,000-pound gross and 6,000-pound pin limits who want 18 inches of automatic travel. Factor in the required capture plate when planning the complete setup.

Full product details
BrandPullRite
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTrailer, Truck
Included ComponentsPullRite 2315 OE Puck Series SuperGlide Hitch 24K for Ram
Item Weight298 pounds
ManufacturerPullrite
Part Number2315
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionPlease contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt.
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number2315
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

Listed on Amazon as: PullRite 2315 OE Puck Series SuperGlide Hitch 24K for Ram, Black

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PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

#3 · Best for Ford Pucks

3. PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

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

Best for: Ford Short-Bed Puck Owners.

Why it ranks #3: Designed for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with factory pucks, this automatic slider provides 14 inches of travel and a 16,000-pound rating.

Automatic sliding is the key advantage of the PullRite 2714: its SuperGlide shifts through 14 inches of travel as the truck turns, helping a Ford short-bed pickup gain maneuvering clearance without manually sliding the hitch. It attaches directly to Ford OE puck mounting points and is rated for 16,000 pounds.

The OE puck-series mounting connects directly to the factory mounting points on the specified Ford short-bed truck, avoiding adapter rails and keeping installation tied to that vehicle platform. During turns, the automatic SuperGlide mechanism provides 14 inches of travel, so the driver does not need to manually reposition the hitch for clearance. Its 16,000-pound rating gives buyers a stated capacity to consider alongside trailer requirements. A capture plate is required, so include that component in the hitch setup.

Pros
  • Automatic SuperGlide movement
  • 14 inches of travel
  • Direct attachment to Ford OE puck points
  • 16,000-pound stated capacity
Cons
  • A capture plate is required for operation.

Skip it if you need a hitch for a GM or Ram puck system; this model is specified for Ford short beds with factory pucks.

Choose this for a Ford short-bed pickup with OE pucks when automatic travel and direct factory-point mounting are priorities. Its 16,000-pound rating and required capture plate are important boundaries for trailer and setup planning.

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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PullRite 2715 SuperGlide

#4 · Best for GM Pucks

4. PullRite 2715 SuperGlide

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

Best for: GM Short-Bed Puck Owners.

Why it ranks #4: The automatic GM puck-system slider is rated to 16,000 pounds and offers 14 inches of travel; its required capture plate is sold separately.

Fourteen inches of fully automatic slide gives the PullRite 2715 a clear role for GM short-bed trucks: it shifts the hitch during turns to help create maneuvering clearance. The OE puck-series design mounts directly to factory points without adapter rails, and the hitch is rated for 16,000 pounds.

This SuperGlide is specified for GM short-bed trucks with factory puck mounts, and its direct attachment avoids adapter rails in the mounting arrangement. Its 14-inch automatic slide shifts the hitch as needed during turns, helping address the clearance challenge of a short bed without a manual sliding step. The 16,000-pound maximum gross trailer weight and 4,000-pound pin-weight capacity give buyers two concrete limits for evaluating a trailer. A separately sold capture plate is required to activate the sliding cam arm.

Pros
  • 14 inches of fully automatic slide
  • Direct fit to GM factory puck points
  • 16,000-pound maximum gross trailer weight
  • Removable mounting post assemblies
Cons
  • The capture plate needed to activate sliding is sold separately.

Skip it if you have a Ford or Ram puck system; this model is specified for GM short-bed trucks with factory pucks.

This suits GM short-bed owners seeking automatic sliding and a direct factory-puck mounting approach. Keep its 16,000-pound gross trailer and 4,000-pound pin limits in view, and account for the separately sold capture plate.

Full product details
BrandPullRite
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTrailer, Truck
Included ComponentsPullRite 2715 OE Puck Series SuperGlide Hitch 16K for Chevy/GMC
Item Weight197 pounds
ManufacturerPullrite
Part Number2715
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionPlease contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt.
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number2715
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

Listed on Amazon as: PULLRITE 2715 OE Puck Series SuperGlide Hitch 16K for Chevy/GMC, Black

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CURT S20 Slider

#5

5. CURT S20 Slider

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

Best for: Short-Bed Auto-Latch Buyers.

Why it ranks #5: This automatic slider has a 20,000-pound rating and 12 inches of displacement, with an auto-latch that locks when you drive forward.

The CURT S20 automatically latches when you drive forward after setting its lever, reducing repeated exits during hookup. Its 12 inches of displacement adds coupling-point clearance for short-bed trucks, while a 20,000-pound rating makes it an option for buyers who need that combination. The head is required separately.

The S20’s 12-inch displacement moves the coupling point to help provide turning clearance in a short-bed truck, addressing a common bed-length constraint. Its auto-latch engages when the truck moves forward after the lever is set, simplifying the hookup sequence and limiting repeated cab exits. The slider ships factory assembled, which can reduce assembly work before installation. It uses industry-standard mounting points, but the listing specifies that a head is required, so buyers must plan for that component as part of the system.

Pros
  • 12 inches of slider displacement
  • Auto-latch engages when driving forward
  • Factory-assembled slider
  • 20,000-pound stated capacity
Cons
  • A head is required separately.

Skip it if you need a complete hitch rather than a slider component; the S20 listing specifies that a head is required.

Consider the S20 for a short-bed truck owner who values 12 inches of clearance and auto-latching operation. It is a slider rather than a complete head-and-slider package, so plan around the required head.

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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CURT S25 Slider

#6

6. CURT S25 Slider

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

Best for: High-Capacity Short-Bed Slider Buyers.

Why it ranks #6: Its 25,000-pound capacity is the highest among the listed CURT sliders, and it automatically latches in both directions.

The CURT S25 automatically latches in both directions, so a driver only needs to exit the truck once to operate the slider. Its 25,000-pound capacity and smooth movement between positions without binding make it a fit for short-bed owners seeking a higher-capacity CURT slider with a simpler operating routine.

The S25 provides a quiet, solid design intended to eliminate chucking while towing, helping address movement in the towing position. When repositioning, it slides smoothly between positions without binding and automatically latches in both directions, reducing the need to leave the cab repeatedly. An easy-to-reach lever arm and lift-style motion support more accessible operation than a traditional pull-out style. The 25,000-pound rating is a key trailer-matching limit, and the product listing states that a head is required.

Pros
  • 25,000-pound stated capacity
  • Automatically latches in both directions
  • Smooth sliding between positions without binding
  • Accessible lever arm with lift motion
Cons
  • A head is required separately.

Skip it if you need a complete head-and-slider assembly; the S25 listing states that a head is required.

A strong candidate for short-bed owners who need a 25,000-pound-rated slider with two-way auto-latching. Confirm the required head is part of the planned system, and match the rating to the trailer’s relevant loads.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsS25 5th Wheel Slider
Item Weight129.4 pounds
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number16574
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye
MaterialCarbon Steel
Model Number16574
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16574 S25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 25,000 lbs (Head Required)

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Demco 21K Recon Slider

#7

7. Demco 21K Recon Slider

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

Best for: Rail-Mount Removable Hitch Buyers.

Why it ranks #7: The manual slider offers 14 inches of rearward travel, a 21,000-pound rating, and a two-piece design for easier installation and removal.

A lighter two-piece construction makes the Demco Recon Slider easier to install and remove from the truck, while 14 inches of rearward travel supports short-bed maneuvering. Its built-in latch handle needs no extra levers or rods for hooking or unhooking, and the 21,000-pound rating gives buyers a defined capacity.

The two-piece design helps make installation and removal more manageable when the hitch needs to come out of the truck, and the hitch fits industry-standard rails. Once mounted, 14 inches of rearward travel can provide added room for maneuvering a short-bed combination. A built-in latch handle eliminates additional levers or rods during hooking and unhooking, while the wrap-around jaw is described as providing a stronger, more secure connection. The listing states a 21,000-pound capacity; rails are not included.

Pros
  • 14 inches of rearward travel
  • Fits industry-standard rails
  • Two-piece design for easier installation and removal
  • Built-in latch handle and wrap-around jaw
Cons
  • Industry-standard mounting rails are not included.

Skip it if you need a hitch that includes its mounting rails; the Recon Slider listing identifies the hitch as supplied without rails.

A fit for buyers with industry-standard rails who want removable two-piece construction and 14 inches of travel. The 21,000-pound rating and rail requirement should guide trailer matching and installation planning.

Full product details
BrandDemco
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsDemco 8550052 21K Recon Slider 5th Wheel Hitch without Rails
ManufacturerDemco
Part Number8550052
MaterialStainless Steel
Model Number8550052
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

Listed on Amazon as: Demco 8550052 21K Recon Slider 5th Wheel Hitch Without Rails

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CURT A25 Slider

#8

8. CURT A25 Slider

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

Best for: OEM Puck System Owners.

Why it ranks #8: This 25,000-pound slider provides 12 inches of travel and quarter-turn anchoring, but its listing does not establish automatic sliding.

A quarter-turn anchoring system makes the CURT 16057 quick to install or remove on compatible OEM puck systems, while its 12 inches of slider travel adds turning clearance for short-bed towing. Its 25,000-pound capacity and self-resetting handle also suit buyers seeking a substantial hitch with a simpler coupling workflow.

The 12-inch slider moves the coupling point to provide additional room when maneuvering a short-bed truck, while the quarter-turn anchors make hitch installation and removal more direct on the specified factory puck system. Adjustable anchors help eliminate chucking between the legs and puck system, addressing movement at that connection. After uncoupling, the lockable handle self-resets to the ready-to-couple position, removing a step before the next hookup. Its stated capacity is 25,000 pounds; compatibility is limited to select puck systems.

Pros
  • 25,000-pound stated capacity
  • 12 inches of slider travel
  • Quarter-turn anchoring for installation and removal
  • Adjustable anchors and self-resetting lockable handle
Cons
  • Compatibility is limited to select OEM puck systems.

Skip it if you have a truck without a compatible factory puck system; this hitch is specified for select OEM puck setups.

A good match for owners of a compatible OEM-puck pickup who want 12 inches of bed travel and a 25,000-pound-rated hitch. Check that the truck’s puck system is among the supported configurations before choosing it.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsA25 5th Wheel Hitch
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number16057
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number16057
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16057 A25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch, 25,000 lbs, Compatible With Select Puck System

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B&W Companion OEM Slider

#9

9. B&W Companion OEM Slider

  • Material: polyurethane
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
  • Material Type: polyurethane

Best for: Ram OEM Platform Owners.

Why it ranks #9: The Ram OEM puck-compatible hitch provides 12 inches of slide, but the supplied details do not identify it as an automatic slider.

A two-piece design with cam-actuated latching makes the B&W Companion OEM Slider easier to install and remove on the Ram OEM hitch platform. Its 12 inches of slide adds turning clearance, while one-inch cast-locking jaws provide a substantial kingpin connection for buyers who want a Ram-specific sliding hitch.

The Companion is made for the Ram OEM hitch platform, and its two-piece construction with cam-actuated latching supports easier installation and removal from that platform. Twelve inches of slide helps add clearance while turning, a useful capability for short-bed maneuvering. The one-inch thick cast-locking jaws form the kingpin connection, and the product description associates them with a smooth ride. These platform-specific mounting details make it important to select this model for the stated Ram setup rather than treat it as a universal rail-mounted hitch.

Pros
  • Compatible with the Ram OEM hitch platform
  • 12 inches of slide
  • Two-piece construction for installation and removal
  • One-inch thick cast-locking jaws
Cons
  • Compatible only with the Ram OEM hitch platform.

Skip it if you have a Ford, GM, or industry-standard rail setup; this Companion model is specified for Ram OEM mounting.

A practical choice for Ram OEM-platform owners seeking removable two-piece construction and 12 inches of turning clearance. Its Ram-specific mounting is the key fit boundary, so it does not suit buyers seeking a universal rail-mounted option.

Full product details
BrandB&W
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Item Weight305 pounds
ManufacturerB&W Trailer Hitches
Part NumberRVK3670
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty
Materialpolyurethane
Model NumberRVK3670

Listed on Amazon as: B&W Trailer Hitches Companion OEM Slider Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with Ram OEM Puck System – RVK3670

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CURT A20 Slider

#10

10. CURT A20 Slider

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

Best for: Quiet Towing And Easier Coupling.

Why it ranks #10: This 20,000-pound short-bed slider has noise-reducing features, but the listing does not specify automatic sliding or its travel distance.

A cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts helps the CURT A20 suppress shock loads and reduce noise, while its fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling and stable towing. This 20,000-pound fifth-wheel hitch also combines interlocking kingpin jaws with a wide head opening to ease connection.

The cast yoke’s poly-torsion inserts are intended to absorb shock loads and reduce noise, which can make towing quieter. A fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling and stable towing, while the extra-wide head opening helps make lining up for connection easier. High-strength interlocking jaws fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise, reinforcing the hitch’s focus on a secure, quieter connection. The lockable handle self-resets to ready-to-couple after uncoupling, and the stated capacity is 20,000 pounds.

Pros
  • Cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts
  • Fully articulating torsion head
  • Interlocking jaws fully wrap the kingpin
  • Wide head opening and self-resetting handle
Cons
  • Its stated capacity is 20,000 pounds.

Skip it if you need a hitch rated above 20,000 pounds; the A20’s stated capacity is 20,000 pounds.

Choose the A20 if quieter towing and easier coupling are priorities and the 20,000-pound rating suits your trailer. Its articulating head and wrapped-jaw connection are relevant features to weigh for your setup.

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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Avoid the capture-plate and puck-system mismatch

A hitch that physically sits in the truck bed may still fail to slide as intended if its required activation or mounting parts do not match your setup. The PullRite 2714 and 2715 specify that a capture plate is required, and the 2715 listing says it is sold separately. By contrast, the Demco 8550048 says no locking plate is required for standard pin boxes.

Do not treat those statements as proof that every pin box is compatible; verify the precise hitch and pin-box combination before towing. Mounting systems are another trap: the PullRite OE Puck models attach to specified factory puck systems, while the Demco 8550048 uses industry-standard bed rails.

A puck-compatible hitch and a rail-mounted hitch are not automatically substitutes. Confirm truck make, model, bed length, mounting system, and required accessories together, rather than choosing by capacity alone.

Automatic sliding does not replace clearance checks

An automatic slider can reposition the hitch during a turn, but its stated travel is not a guarantee that every trailer clears every cab. This product set ranges from 12 inches on several CURT and B&W options to 14 inches on PullRite 16K models, 18 inches on the PullRite Ram 24K, and 22.5 inches on the Demco 13K Autoslide. Those figures describe slider movement, not a universal safe turning angle.

Trailer dimensions, pin-box geometry, truck cab shape, hitch placement, and bed setup all affect clearance, and the listings do not provide a vehicle-specific clearance calculation. Treat travel as a comparison point, then verify the combination with the hitch and trailer manufacturers.

Also distinguish moving the slider automatically from other hookup steps: an automatic mechanism does not establish that every coupling or safety check happens without driver action.

How to Choose an Auto Sliding Fifth-Wheel Hitch

Automatic operation and slide travel

Look for explicit automatic-slide language and enough travel for your truck-and-trailer combination. The Demco 8550048 lists automatic operation and 22.5 inches of travel; the PullRite 2315 provides 18 inches, while the PullRite 2714 and 2715 provide 14 inches. The CURT S20 is described as an automatic slider with 12 inches of displacement.

By comparison, several other listings describe sliding hitches without establishing automatic movement. More travel may suit buyers prioritizing extra repositioning range, but the listed distance alone cannot confirm cab clearance.

If avoiding manual lever operation is essential, favor models explicitly identified as automatic and verify the required activation components.

Capacity matched to loaded trailer

Choose a hitch whose stated capacity covers your trailer’s actual loaded weight and pin load, using the figures that apply to your combination. The supplied ratings span 13,000 pounds for the Demco Autoslide, 16,000 pounds for the PullRite 2714 and 2715, 20,000 pounds for the CURT S20 and A20, 21,000 pounds for the Demco Recon, 24,000 pounds for the PullRite 2315, and 25,000 pounds for the CURT S25 and A25. The PullRite 2315 also lists a 6,000-pound pin capacity; the 2715 lists 4,000 pounds.

Buyers with heavier rigs should focus on higher-rated compatible models, while a higher rating cannot compensate for an incompatible mount.

Truck mounting system and included requirements

Match the hitch to the truck’s factory mounting points or installed bed rails before comparing convenience features. The PullRite 2714 is for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with pucks, the 2715 is designed for GM puck systems, and the 2315 is for Ram; the B&W Companion is also Ram OEM puck compatible. The Demco 8550048 specifies industry-standard bed rails, while the Demco Recon also fits industry-standard rails but is sold without them.

PullRite 2714 and 2715 models require capture plates, and the 2715 listing says the plate is separate. Factory-puck owners should check exact truck fit; buyers with standard rails should confirm rail compatibility and whether rails or other required parts are included.

Which Auto Sliding Fifth-Wheel Hitch Should You Choose?

For a rail-mounted setup where automatic movement and long travel are priorities, choose the Demco 13K Autoslide, provided its 13,000-pound rating fits your trailer. Ram puck-system owners towing heavier rigs can consider the PullRite 2315 SuperGlide, rated at 24,000 pounds with 18 inches of automatic travel. For select Ford 6.5-foot puck beds, the PullRite 2714 SuperGlide offers 14 inches of automatic travel; GM puck owners can compare the PullRite 2715 SuperGlide, remembering its capture plate is sold separately.

If you want a CURT auto-latching slider, the CURT S20 Slider provides 12 inches of displacement and a 20,000-pound rating. Do not select a manual or unspecified slider as an automatic substitute; verify vehicle fit, trailer capacity, mounting hardware, and pin-box requirements first.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I confirm a sliding hitch fits my truck’s bed and mounting system?

Check the hitch’s stated fitment against your truck’s bed configuration and mounting system, including whether it uses OEM pucks or bed rails. Confirm that the required rails, head, and other mounting hardware are included or compatible. Also verify trailer and pin-box requirements before ordering; a matching hitch category alone does not confirm fit.

When does an automatic slider still need a capture plate?

It depends on the hitch and pin-box requirements. The Demco 13K Autoslide is described as moving automatically without a locking plate for standard pin boxes, while the PullRite 2715 listing notes that its capture plate is sold separately. Confirm the requirements for your specific hitch and pin box before purchase.

How much turning clearance does my short-bed truck need?

There is no single clearance figure that fits every truck and trailer combination. Check the hitch’s travel and fitment alongside your bed length, trailer dimensions, pin-box setup, and turning needs. If the available information does not establish adequate clearance, confirm compatibility with the hitch manufacturer before towing.

How should I compare hitch capacity with my trailer?

Compare the hitch’s stated capacity with your trailer’s loaded weight and confirm the rating is suitable for your towing setup. The Demco 13K Autoslide has a lower stated capacity than the 16K–24K PullRite options, so buyers considering it should verify that 13,000 pounds suits their loaded trailer.

What should I check when a listing says rails are not included or a head is required?

Treat those notes as fitment and component checks, not minor details. The Demco 13K listing says rails are not included, and the CURT S20 and S25 titles say a head is required. Verify which components your truck setup needs and whether they are included or compatible before choosing.

Final Words

For a rail-mounted setup, the Demco 13K Autoslide is the leading choice when its 13,000-pound rating suits the loaded trailer; it offers 22.5 inches of travel and works without a locking plate for standard pin boxes. Choose a compatible PullRite instead when you need a higher rating or specific OEM puck fit. Before ordering, verify truck fit, mounting hardware, trailer capacity, and pin-box requirements.

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