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

Best Auto Slide 5Th Wheel Hitch

A strong auto-slide 5th wheel hitch adds turning clearance without requiring you to stop and reposition a manual slider, making it a good fit for short-bed truck owners who want simpler maneuvering. The products here range from automatic SuperGlide models with 14 inches of travel to the CURT S20, which automatically latches after the lever is set and provides 12 inches of displacement. Truck fit is just as important as capacity: several options attach to specific factory puck systems, while others use industry-standard rails or require additional components.

The CURT and Demco options also include details such as self-resetting handles or a built-in latch handle. Compare your truck’s bed, mounting system, trailer weight, and coupling requirements before choosing; automatic operation alone does not establish compatibility.

The PullRite 4100 16K SuperGlide leads for buyers seeking automatic sliding because its listed features combine automatic operation, a 16,000-pound capacity, and up to 14 inches of movement while turning. That travel exceeds the 12 inches listed for the CURT S20 and CURT A25 puck-system slider. If your truck uses Ford or GM factory pucks, choose the matching PullRite 2714 or 2715 instead, since those models are identified for those specific mounts.

Verify required capture plates and mounting compatibility before purchase.

Our Top Picks

PullRite 4100 SuperGlideBest Overall

PullRite 4100 SuperGlide

Automatic operation and up to 14 inches of turn-activated travel suit short-bed towing; its listed capacity is 16,000 pounds.

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PullRite 2714 SuperGlideBest for Ford Pucks

PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

This automatically sliding 16K model is designed for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with factory pucks and provides 14 inches of travel.

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PullRite 2715 SuperGlideBest for GM Pucks

PullRite 2715 SuperGlide

The automatic 16K slider fits GM short-bed trucks with factory pucks, offers 14 inches of travel, and requires a capture plate.

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Compare These Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Options

#ProductMaterialCompatible with Vehicle TypeWeightBuy
1Alloy SteelTrailer, Truck175 lbView on Amazon
2
PullRite 2714 SuperGlide2. PullRite 2714 SuperGlideBest for Ford Pucks
Alloy SteelTruck216 lbView on Amazon
3Alloy SteelTrailer, Truck197 lbView on Amazon
4
CURT S20 Slider4. CURT S20 SliderBest Auto-Latching Slider
Carbon SteelTruck109.4 lbView on Amazon
5
CURT A25 Puck Slider5. CURT A25 Puck SliderPuck-system short-bed towing
Alloy SteelTruck—View on Amazon
6
B&W Companion OEM Slider6. B&W Companion OEM SliderRam OEM-platform slider
polyurethaneTruck305 lbView on Amazon
7
Demco Recon Slider7. Demco Recon SliderRail-mounted 21K slider
Stainless SteelTruck—View on Amazon
8
CURT A25 Slider Hitch8. CURT A25 Slider Hitch25K short-bed A-series
Alloy SteelTruck232 lbView on Amazon
9
CURT A20 Slider Hitch9. CURT A20 Slider HitchQuiet 20K short-bed towing
Alloy SteelTruck212 lbView on Amazon
10
CURT A16 Slider Hitch10. CURT A16 Slider Hitch16K short-bed slider kit
Alloy SteelTruck—View on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Auto Slide 5Th Wheel Hitch

PullRite 4100 SuperGlide

#1 · Best Overall

1. PullRite 4100 SuperGlide

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

Best for: Automatic 16K SuperGlide.

Why it ranks #1: Automatic operation and up to 14 inches of turn-activated travel suit short-bed towing; its listed capacity is 16,000 pounds.

Automatic SuperGlide movement provides up to 14 inches of travel while turning, 50 percent farther than manually adjusted slider designs, according to the listing. The PullRite 4100 combines that movement with a 16,000-pound capacity for short-bed truck towing where turning clearance matters.

The automatic operation moves the hitch during a turn, so the driver does not have to manually reposition a slider to obtain the listed travel. Up to 14 inches of movement is specified, with the listing comparing it to manually adjusted slider designs; that travel can help address short-bed turning clearance. Its 16,000-pound capacity sets a firm selection boundary. The supplied information does not identify a particular factory puck system or rail interface, so it does not establish those fit details.

Pros
  • Automatic SuperGlide operation
  • Up to 14 inches of travel while turning
  • 16,000-pound capacity
  • Listed for short-bed truck use
Cons
  • The 16,000-pound capacity may not suit trailers exceeding that rating.

Skip it if you need a specified factory-puck or rail interface; the 4100 listing does not identify one.

Consider the 4100 if automatic movement and up to 14 inches of travel suit your short-bed towing needs. Its 16,000-pound capacity is the limit stated here, and the listing does not specify a mounting interface.

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

Listed on Amazon as: PullRite 4100 16K SuperGlide 5th Wheel Hitch

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PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

#2 · Best for Ford Pucks

2. PullRite 2714 SuperGlide

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

Best for: Ford puck-system SuperGlide.

Why it ranks #2: This automatically sliding 16K model is designed for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with factory pucks and provides 14 inches of travel.

Fourteen inches of automatic slide travel helps provide turning clearance in a Ford 6.5-foot short bed without relying on manual slider adjustment. The PullRite 2714 attaches to Ford OE puck mounts, making it a focused option for owners whose truck has the specified factory mounting system.

The 2714 combines a Ford OE puck-series attachment with automatic SuperGlide movement, aligning the hitch with select Ford 6.5-foot truck beds while providing 14 inches of travel during turns. Direct mounting to the truck’s original points avoids adapter rails, simplifying the mounting arrangement for compatible trucks. Its 16,000-pound rating defines the towing capacity, and the required capture plate is an additional compatibility consideration: the listing states it is needed but does not include it among the supplied components.

Pros
  • 14 inches of automatic slide travel
  • For select Ford 6.5-foot truck beds
  • Attaches to Ford OE puck mounts
  • 16,000-pound capacity
Cons
  • A capture plate is required and is not listed among the included components.

Skip it if you do not have the specified Ford 6.5-foot bed and OE pucks; this hitch is made for that configuration.

Choose the 2714 for a compatible Ford 6.5-foot short bed with OE puck mounts when automatic travel and direct attachment matter. Its 16,000-pound rating and required capture plate are key selection boundaries.

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

#3 · Best for GM Pucks

3. PullRite 2715 SuperGlide

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer, Truck
  • Weight: 197 lb

Best for: GM puck-system SuperGlide.

Why it ranks #3: The automatic 16K slider fits GM short-bed trucks with factory pucks, offers 14 inches of travel, and requires a capture plate.

The PullRite 2715 provides 14 inches of fully automatic slide travel for Chevy and GMC short-bed trucks with factory pucks. Removable mounting-post assemblies make the hitch easier to remove and install, while direct OE-point attachment avoids adapter rails.

Designed for GM short-bed trucks with puck mounts, the 2715 attaches directly to OE mounting points without adapter rails. Its 14 inches of fully automatic slide travel supports turning clearance, and removable mounting-post assemblies make hitch removal and installation easier. The 16,000-pound gross trailer weight limit and 4,000-pound pin-weight limit define two separate load checks. A capture plate is required to activate the sliding cam arm and is sold separately, so it must be accounted for in setup.

Pros
  • 14 inches of fully automatic slide travel
  • Direct attachment to GM OE puck points
  • Removable mounting-post assemblies
  • 16,000-pound gross trailer and 4,000-pound pin-weight limits specified
Cons
  • A capture plate is required and sold separately.

Skip it if you do not have a Chevy or GMC short bed with factory pucks; the 2715 is specified for that setup.

Choose the 2715 for a compatible Chevy or GMC short bed when direct puck mounting and automatic travel suit your needs. Check both weight limits and plan 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

#4 · Best Auto-Latching Slider

4. CURT S20 Slider

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

Best for: Short-bed automatic slider.

Why it ranks #4: Its automatic latch locks when the truck moves forward, while 12 inches of displacement adds turning clearance; the listing says a head is required.

The CURT S20 automatically latches when you drive forward after setting its lever, reducing the need to leave the cab repeatedly during hookup. Its 12 inches of coupling-point displacement add turning clearance for short-bed trucks, pairing a more convenient workflow with room for maneuvering.

The S20’s 12-inch displacement moves the coupling point to help avoid trailer obstruction during turns in a short-bed truck. Its auto-latching action locks the slider when you drive forward after setting the lever, so hookup requires fewer exits from the cab. The slider is factory assembled and uses industry-standard mounting points, which informs installation planning; its 20,000-pound capacity sets the towing limit. The product listing specifies that a head is required, so the slider alone is not a complete hitch.

Pros
  • 12 inches of coupling-point displacement
  • Auto-latching after the lever is set and truck moves forward
  • Factory assembled
  • Industry-standard mounting points
Cons
  • A compatible head is required; the slider alone is not a complete hitch.

Skip it if you need a complete hitch in one unit; the S20 listing says a head is required, while the CURT 16531 A20 is listed as a hitch.

This S20 suits short-bed owners who want automatic slider latching and 12 inches of clearance movement. Account for its 20,000-pound capacity, industry-standard mounting points, and separate head requirement before choosing it.

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 A25 Puck Slider

#5

5. CURT A25 Puck Slider

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

Best for: Puck-system short-bed towing.

Why it ranks #5: This 25,000-pound slider offers 12 inches of travel and quarter-turn anchors for compatible OEM puck systems, with a self-resetting handle.

Twelve inches of slider travel gives the CURT A25 room to move the coupling point for added turning clearance in a short-bed truck. Its quarter-turn anchors attach to select OEM puck systems, while adjustable anchors help reduce chucking between the hitch legs and puck system.

The 25,000-pound capacity suits buyers choosing a high-capacity A-series hitch, and the 12-inch slider travel addresses the turning-clearance challenge of a short bed. Quarter-turn anchoring supports quick installation and removal at compatible OEM puck points; adjustable anchors let you reduce movement between the legs and puck system. After uncoupling, the lockable handle self-resets to the ready-to-couple position, removing a step from the next hookup. Vehicle compatibility is limited to select puck systems.

Pros
  • 25,000-pound towing capacity
  • 12 inches of slider travel
  • Quarter-turn anchoring for quick installation and removal
  • Self-resetting lockable handle
Cons
  • Compatible only with select OEM puck systems.

Skip it if you need a rail-mounted slider; this A25 is specified for select OEM puck systems, not industry-standard rails.

Choose this A25 if your truck has a compatible OEM puck system and you want 25,000-pound capacity with slider travel for short-bed maneuvering. Check the specific puck-system compatibility before planning installation.

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

#6

6. B&W Companion OEM Slider

  • Material: polyurethane
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
  • Weight: 305 lb

Best for: Ram OEM-platform slider.

Why it ranks #6: The Ram OEM puck-compatible slider provides 12 inches of travel, thick cast-locking jaws, and a two-piece design for installation and removal.

Twelve inches of slide travel gives the B&W Companion OEM Slider added turning clearance while keeping its fit focused on the Ram OEM hitch platform. A cam-actuated latch and two-piece construction support installation and removal, while cast-locking jaws provide a secure connection point.

The Ram OEM platform compatibility makes this a targeted choice for trucks with that factory hitch interface, while the two-piece design and cam-actuated latching mechanism support installation and removal. During towing, 12 inches of slide travel adds turning clearance, and the one-inch-thick cast-locking jaws form the stated connection point for a smooth ride. The supplied information does not state a towing-capacity rating, so buyers should not use this listing alone to establish load suitability.

Pros
  • Compatible with the Ram OEM hitch platform
  • 12 inches of slide travel
  • Two-piece design for installation and removal
  • One-inch-thick cast-locking jaws
Cons
  • The supplied product information does not state a towing-capacity rating.

Skip it if you need a stated towing-capacity figure before selecting a hitch; this listing provides no capacity rating.

This Companion suits Ram OEM-platform owners seeking a removable two-piece slider with extra turning clearance. The listing gives no capacity figure, so it is not enough by itself to verify suitability for a particular trailer load.

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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Demco Recon Slider

#7

7. Demco Recon Slider

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

Best for: Rail-mounted 21K slider.

Why it ranks #7: Its 21K capacity, 14 inches of rearward travel, and industry-standard rail fit make it a flexible option; rails are not included.

Fourteen inches of rearward travel gives the Demco Recon Slider room to increase turning clearance, while its two-piece construction is described as lighter and easier to handle during installation or removal. The 21,000-pound model fits industry-standard rails, making the rail interface central to its appeal.

The Recon’s industry-standard rail compatibility gives owners with ISR rails a defined mounting interface, and its two-piece design supports taking the hitch in and out of the truck. Fourteen inches of rearward travel helps provide clearance for maneuvering, while the built-in latch handle avoids separate levers or rods for hooking and unhooking. A wrap-around jaw and dual-articulation head are specified for a secure connection and hookup or release on uneven terrain. Rails are not included.

Pros
  • Fits industry-standard rails
  • 14 inches of rearward travel
  • Built-in latch handle needs no additional levers or rods
  • Two-piece design for installation and removal
Cons
  • Rails are not included.

Skip it if you lack industry-standard rails; this Recon is specified to fit ISR rails and is sold without them.

The Recon suits truck owners with industry-standard rails who want 21,000-pound capacity, 14 inches of travel, and a two-piece removable hitch. Plan around the separate rail requirement before installation.

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 Hitch

#8

8. CURT A25 Slider Hitch

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
  • Weight: 232 lb

Best for: 25K short-bed A-series.

Why it ranks #8: The short-bed slider is rated for 25,000 pounds and has interlocking jaws and a fully articulating torsion head, but automatic sliding is not specified.

The CURT A25’s 25,000-pound capacity sets it apart within this A-series slider lineup for short-bed trucks. Its cast yoke and poly-torsion inserts are specified to suppress shock loads and reduce noise, while the articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling and stable towing.

The A25’s 25,000-pound rating makes capacity the first selection check for buyers matching it to a trailer. Its cast yoke uses poly-torsion inserts to help suppress shock loads and reduce noise, while the fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling. Interlocking jaws wrap the kingpin, and the extra-wide head opening eases alignment during hookup. After uncoupling, the lockable handle resets to ready-to-couple. The listing identifies it as a short-bed slider but does not state a travel distance.

Pros
  • 25,000-pound capacity
  • Poly-torsion inserts help suppress shock loads and noise
  • Fully articulating torsion head
  • Self-resetting lockable handle
Cons
  • The supplied information does not state the slider’s travel distance.

Skip it if you need a specified slider-travel distance before choosing; this A25 listing does not give one.

The A25 suits short-bed owners prioritizing a 25,000-pound rating, controlled coupling, and a self-resetting handle. Because the supplied listing does not state travel distance, verify that this detail meets your maneuvering needs.

Full product details
BrandCURT
Compatible with Vehicle TypeTruck
Included ComponentsA25 5th Wheel Hitch
Item Weight232 pounds
ManufacturerCurt Manufacturing
Part Number16551
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model Number16551
Additional InformationImportant information

Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16551 A25 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 25,000 lbs

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CURT A20 Slider Hitch

#9

9. CURT A20 Slider Hitch

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

Best for: Quiet 20K short-bed towing.

Why it ranks #9: This 20,000-pound short-bed slider features a torsion head, noise-reducing inserts, and a self-resetting handle; automatic travel is not listed.

A cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts helps suppress shock loads and reduce noise in the CURT A20, while its slider format serves short-bed trucks. Fully articulating torsion movement supports controlled coupling, and the 20,000-pound rating gives buyers a clear capacity boundary.

The A20 pairs a fully articulating torsion head with interlocking jaws that wrap the kingpin, supporting controlled coupling and a secure connection. Poly-torsion inserts in the cast yoke are specified to suppress shock loads and reduce noise, a useful consideration for buyers prioritizing a quieter tow. Its extra-wide head opening helps with coupling alignment, while the lockable handle resets to ready-to-couple after uncoupling. At 20,000 pounds, its rating should guide trailer selection.

Pros
  • 20,000-pound capacity
  • Poly-torsion inserts help suppress shock loads and noise
  • Fully articulating torsion head
  • Self-resetting lockable handle
Cons
  • Its 20,000-pound rating is a limit for trailers with higher towing requirements.

Skip it if you need more than 20,000 pounds of rated capacity; the CURT A25 16551 is listed at 25,000 pounds.

Choose the A20 for short-bed towing when its 20,000-pound rating, articulating head, and noise-reducing yoke suit your setup. Keep the trailer’s required capacity within that stated limit.

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 A16 Slider Hitch

#10

10. CURT A16 Slider Hitch

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

Best for: 16K short-bed slider kit.

Why it ranks #10: The 16,000-pound short-bed slider has noise-reducing inserts and a coupling indicator, but the supplied facts do not specify automatic operation or travel.

The CURT A16 combines a 16,000-pound rating with a coupling indicator visible from the pickup cab, letting the driver check coupling status without relying only on an outside view. Its slider format and base rails make it a short-bed option with a supplied rail component.

The three-position coupling indicator is visible from the cab, helping the driver check the hitch’s coupling state during hookup. An extra-wide head opening supports alignment, while interlocking jaws wrap the kingpin to minimize noise. The cast yoke’s poly-torsion inserts are specified to suppress shock loads, and the articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling. With 16,000 pounds of capacity and included base rails stated in the title, this is a lower-capacity choice than the CURT A20 16531.

Pros
  • 16,000-pound capacity
  • Coupling indicator visible from the cab
  • Extra-wide head opening
  • Base rails included in the title
Cons
  • The 16,000-pound capacity is below the CURT A20 16531’s 20,000-pound rating.

Skip it if you need more than 16,000 pounds of capacity; the CURT A20 16531 is listed at 20,000 pounds.

The A16 fits short-bed buyers whose trailer falls within its 16,000-pound rating and who value a cab-visible coupling indicator. Treat the stated capacity as the boundary when matching it to a trailer.

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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Avoiding a mount-compatibility mismatch

A hitch can have suitable travel and capacity yet still fail to match the truck’s mounting system. The PullRite 2714 is specifically described for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with puck mounts, while the 2715 is for GM short-bed trucks with pucks; neither should be treated as a universal puck fit. The CURT 16057 A25 is for select OEM puck systems, but the listing says fitment is year-range specific.

The B&W Companion listed here is designed for the Ram OEM platform. For a rail-mounted setup, the Demco Recon fits industry-standard rails, but rails are not included.

Before ordering, confirm the truck’s make, model year, bed length, factory mount configuration, and the hitch’s exact fitment notes. Also check whether an adapter, head, or capture plate is required: the CURT S20 listing says a head is required, and both PullRite OE puck models call for a capture plate.

Automatic travel still has trade-offs

Automatic movement can reduce manual slider steps, but it does not remove the need to verify setup and operating requirements. PullRite’s SuperGlide products are described as moving automatically during turns, with 14 inches of travel; the 2715 specifically requires a capture plate, sold separately. The CURT S20 works differently: set its lever, then it locks into place when you drive forward, and its listed displacement is 12 inches.

That distinction matters when comparing a turn-activated sliding mechanism with a system that latches after forward motion. Manual slider models in this lineup, including the CURT A20, A16, and A25 short-bed models, list useful towing features but do not state automatic operation in the supplied information.

Do not assume a slider is automatic based only on its name or short-bed fit. If you want fewer manual adjustments, prioritize products explicitly described as automatic and confirm the required capture plate, head, and mounting components.

How to Choose an Auto-Slide 5th Wheel Hitch

Automatic operation and slide travel

Look for an explicit description of how the hitch moves, as well as its travel distance. The PullRite 4100, 2714, and 2715 are listed as automatic and provide up to 14 inches of movement; the CURT S20 automatically locks after you set its lever and provides 12 inches of displacement. Other CURT short-bed sliders list no automatic function or travel distance in the supplied details.

Buyers who want turn-activated movement should focus on the SuperGlide models, while someone comfortable setting a lever may prefer the S20’s stated auto-latching sequence. More travel can offer more clearance, but the truck and trailer combination still determines whether that amount is sufficient.

Truck mount and bed fit

Match the hitch to the truck’s actual mounting system before comparing other features. The PullRite 2714 is for select Ford 6.5-foot beds with pucks, and the 2715 is for GM short beds with pucks; the B&W Companion here is designed for Ram OEM pucks. The CURT 16057 fits select OEM puck systems with year-range-specific fitment.

The Demco Recon fits industry-standard rails, while the CURT S20 lists industry-standard mounting points. Choose a truck-specific puck model when your vehicle matches its stated fit, and choose a rail-based option only if your truck has compatible rails or you have confirmed what installation hardware is needed.

Capacity and required components

Choose a listed capacity that is appropriate for your loaded trailer, and verify pin-weight limits and component requirements separately. The options span 16,000 pounds for the PullRite SuperGlides and CURT A16, 20,000 pounds for the CURT S20 and A20, 21,000 pounds for the Demco Recon, and 25,000 pounds for the CURT A25 models. The PullRite 2715 specifies a 4,000-pound maximum pin weight; do not assume that limit applies to other hitches.

Some products also need additional parts: the S20 listing says a head is required, the PullRite puck models require capture plates, and the Demco is sold without rails. Buyers should confirm the complete compatible setup, not just the hitch’s headline capacity.

Which auto-slide 5th wheel hitch should I choose?

For a short-bed owner seeking automatic operation without a listed truck-specific puck fit, start with the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide: it is rated for 16,000 pounds and moves up to 14 inches while turning. Choose the PullRite 2714 SuperGlide for a compatible Ford 6.5-foot bed with factory pucks, or the PullRite 2715 SuperGlide for a compatible GM short bed; both provide 14 inches of automatic travel, and the 2715 requires a capture plate. The CURT S20 Slider is a 20,000-pound alternative with 12 inches of displacement and an auto-latching sequence, but its listing says a head is required.

For a compatible Ram puck system, consider the B&W Companion OEM Slider. If capacity is the priority and manual operation is acceptable, compare the CURT A25 Slider Hitch and Demco Recon Slider.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I confirm that a sliding 5th wheel hitch fits my truck’s bed and factory puck system?

Match the hitch listing to your truck’s make, model, bed length, and factory puck system, then confirm the required mounting hardware and capture plate. The listed PullRite 2714 is for select Ford 6.5-foot beds, and the 2715 is for compatible GM short beds. Verify compatibility for your exact truck before buying.

When does a short-bed truck need a sliding hitch rather than a fixed hitch?

A short-bed truck may need a sliding hitch to create extra clearance between the truck cab and trailer during turns. The required movement depends on your truck and trailer geometry, so confirm clearance with the trailer manufacturer or a qualified installer. Some sliders move automatically; others require manual operation.

What trailer weight and pin weight limits should I check before choosing a 5th wheel hitch?

Check the hitch’s rated trailer weight and pin weight, and make sure both meet or exceed the loaded trailer’s actual figures. Also confirm your truck’s payload and towing limits; the hitch rating alone does not establish that the truck can safely carry or tow the trailer. Consult the vehicle and hitch documentation.

What should I verify about capture plates and other required components?

Check the product listing for required capture plates, heads, rails, or other mounting components, and confirm they match your trailer and truck setup. The PullRite 2715 listing specifies a capture plate, while the CURT S20 listing says a head is required. Do not assume these components are included or interchangeable.

How should I choose between automatic and manual slider operation?

Choose automatic operation if you want the hitch to slide as you turn, and confirm its travel suits your clearance needs. The PullRite 4100 lists up to 14 inches of movement while turning; the CURT S20 lists 12 inches and an auto-latching sequence. If manual operation is acceptable, compare the CURT A25 and Demco Recon options.

Final Words

Start by matching the hitch to your truck’s bed, mounting system, and required capacity; then check trailer clearance and any required capture plate or head. For automatic travel, the PullRite 4100 leads the listed options with up to 14 inches of movement. Choose the 2714 or 2715 when its Ford or GM puck fit matches your truck, and consider the Ram-compatible Companion for Ram pucks.

Confirm every fit and rating before purchase.

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