A strong short-bed fifth wheel hitch provides turning clearance while matching your truck’s mounting system and the trailer’s loaded weight. The PullRite 4100 SuperGlide is a standout for drivers who want automatic movement, while CURT’s 16K–25K sliders offer several capacity choices. This roundup compares ten options, from conventional sliding hitches to an automatic model, a gooseneck-mounted connection, and factory-puck-system hitches.
Those designs are not interchangeable: some need a specific truck bed or mounting setup, and one slider is sold without its required head. Check your truck’s make, model, bed length, and mounting points, then compare hitch capacity with your trailer’s actual loaded weight.
The details below highlight what each listing confirms—and where buyers should verify compatibility before ordering.
For a short-bed truck, the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide leads because it is listed for short-bed trucks and automatically moves up to 14 inches during a turn. That travel is more than the 12 inches listed for several CURT sliders, and it avoids manually adjusting a slider. Its 16,000-pound capacity makes it a fit only when that rating suits the trailer and the truck’s limits.
Verify the required mounting components and vehicle compatibility before buying.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallDesigned for short-bed trucks, it automatically moves up to 14 inches during turns and has a 16,000-pound capacity.
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Highest CapacityThis short-bed slider is rated to 25,000 pounds and lists a torsion head, noise-reducing inserts, and interlocking jaws.
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Quiet-Towing PickA short-bed slider rated to 20,000 pounds, it combines poly-torsion inserts with interlocking jaws that wrap the kingpin.
View on Amazon- Rails Included CURT A16 Slider
- 25K Slider Base CURT S25 Slider
Compare Short-Bed Fifth-Wheel Hitch Options
| # | Product | Weight | Material | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. PullRite 4100 SuperGlideBest Overall | 175 lb | Alloy Steel | Trailer, Truck | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. CURT A25 SliderHighest Capacity | 232 lb | Alloy Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. CURT A20 SliderQuiet-Towing Pick | 212 lb | Alloy Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. CURT A16 SliderRails Included | — | Alloy Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. CURT E16 SliderSimple-operation 16K slider | 171 lb | Alloy Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. CURT S25 Slider25K Slider Base | 129.4 lb | Carbon Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. PullRite 2714 SuperGlideFord puck-system auto slider | 216 lb | Alloy Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. CURT A25 Puck SliderHigh-capacity puck-system slider | — | Alloy Steel | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Andersen Ultimate ToolboxLightweight gooseneck conversion | 45 lb | Aluminum | Truck | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. B&W Companion OEMGM OEM puck-system companion | 166 lb | polyurethane | Trailer | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Fifth Wheel Hitch For Short Bed

#1 · Best Overall
1. PullRite 4100 SuperGlide
- Weight: 175 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer, Truck
Best for: Automatic turning clearance.
Why it ranks #1: Designed for short-bed trucks, it automatically moves up to 14 inches during turns and has a 16,000-pound capacity.
The PullRite 4100 SuperGlide moves up to 14 inches while turning, automatically creating extra movement for short-bed truck use without manual slider adjustment. Its 16,000-pound capacity makes it a defined-capacity option for buyers who want turning clearance managed by the hitch’s automatic operation.
Unlike a manually adjusted slider, the SuperGlide moves as much as 14 inches during a turn, reducing the need to stop and reposition the hitch for that movement. Automatic operation supports a simpler turning workflow, while the 16,000-pound rating gives buyers a clear capacity figure to compare with their trailer requirements. The hitch is alloy steel and weighs 175 pounds; the listing does not detail installation hardware or adjustment procedures.
- 16,000-pound capacity
- Up to 14 inches of movement while turning
- Automatic operation
- Movement is listed as 50% farther than manually adjusted slider designs
- The listing does not include installation hardware or detailed adjustment instructions.
Skip it if you need a hitch explicitly listed for Ford factory puck mounts; the PullRite 2714 OE Puck SuperGlide specifies that application.
This is for short-bed truck owners who want up to 14 inches of automatic movement during turns and can work within its 16,000-pound rating. Review the installation details carefully, as the listing provides limited setup information.
Full product details
| Brand | PullRite |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer, Truck |
| Included Components | Pulliam Enterprises, Inc. 4100 Pullrite Superglide 16K 5Th Hitch For Short Bed Trucks |
| Item Weight | 175 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Pullrite |
| Part Number | 4100 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Please contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt. |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 4100 |
| Additional Information | Important 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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#2 · Highest Capacity
2. CURT A25 Slider
- Weight: 232 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: 25K capacity with quiet coupling.
Why it ranks #2: This short-bed slider is rated to 25,000 pounds and lists a torsion head, noise-reducing inserts, and interlocking jaws.
CURT’s A25 pairs a 25,000-pound capacity with a cast yoke and poly-torsion inserts that suppress shock loads and reduce noise. For short-bed truck owners seeking higher listed capacity, its fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling and the interlocking jaws wrap the kingpin.
The torsion head articulates to support controlled coupling and stable towing, while the interlocking jaws fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise at the connection. An extra-wide head opening helps with alignment, and the lockable handle resets to the ready-to-couple position after uncoupling. The alloy-steel hitch weighs 232 pounds. The supplied details do not state slider travel, so capacity and coupling features are clearer than its bed-clearance specification.
- 25,000-pound capacity
- Cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts suppresses shock loads and noise
- Fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling
- Interlocking jaws and self-resetting lockable handle
- The listing does not specify the slider’s travel distance.
Skip it if you need a documented travel measurement; the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide specifies up to 14 inches of turn movement.
This A25 suits short-bed truck owners prioritizing 25,000-pound capacity and quiet, controlled coupling. Its listed weight is 232 pounds, and slider travel is not specified, so account for both when assessing handling and cab clearance.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | A25 5th Wheel Hitch |
| Item Weight | 232 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 16551 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 16551 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16551 A25 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 25,000 lbs
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#3 · Quiet-Towing Pick
3. CURT A20 Slider
- Weight: 212 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Quiet towing with 20K capacity.
Why it ranks #3: A short-bed slider rated to 20,000 pounds, it combines poly-torsion inserts with interlocking jaws that wrap the kingpin.
A 20,000-pound rating pairs with CURT’s cast yoke and poly-torsion inserts to suppress shock loads and reduce noise. For short-bed truck owners seeking a smoother-feeling tow, the fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling, while the extra-wide opening makes lining up the kingpin easier.
The interlocking jaws wrap fully around the kingpin to minimize noise, and the torsion head articulates to help maintain controlled coupling as the trailer moves. After uncoupling, the lockable handle resets to the ready-to-couple position, removing a separate reset step from the next hookup. This is a 212-pound alloy-steel slider hitch for trucks; the supplied details do not state its slider travel, so assess that requirement separately.
- 20,000-pound towing capacity
- Cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts suppresses shock loads and noise
- Fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling
- Self-resetting lockable handle and extra-wide head opening aid hookup
- The supplied specifications do not state the slider’s travel distance.
Skip it if you need a documented slider-travel measurement; the listed PullRite 4100 specifies up to 14 inches of movement during turns.
This suits short-bed truck owners prioritizing a quieter coupling experience and 20,000-pound capacity. Its articulating head and self-resetting handle ease hookup, but the listed information does not give slider travel, an important fit consideration.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | A20 5th Wheel Hitch |
| Item Weight | 212 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 16531 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 16531 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16531 A20 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 20,000 lbs
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#4 · Rails Included
4. CURT A16 Slider
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Rail-equipped 16K short-bed kit.
Why it ranks #4: This 16,000-pound short-bed slider includes base rails and lists a three-position coupling indicator visible from the cab.
The CURT A16 combines a 16,000-pound rating with included base rails, giving short-bed truck owners a hitch-and-rail package. Its cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts suppresses shock loads and noise, while interlocking jaws wrap the kingpin for a secure, quieter connection.
The fully articulating torsion head supports controlled coupling and stable towing, while the extra-wide head opening helps make alignment easier. Interlocking jaws fully wrap the kingpin to minimize noise, and the cast yoke’s poly-torsion inserts suppress shock loads. A lockable handle resets to its ready-to-couple position after uncoupling. The listing describes included base rails and a 16,000-pound capacity, but does not provide a slider-travel measurement for assessing clearance needs.
- 16,000-pound capacity
- Base rails included
- Cast yoke and poly-torsion inserts suppress shock loads and noise
- Interlocking jaws and extra-wide opening support coupling
- The listing does not state the slider’s travel distance.
Skip it if you need a listed slider-travel measurement; the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide specifies up to 14 inches during a turn.
This A16 is for short-bed truck owners seeking a 16,000-pound hitch with base rails included and noise-conscious coupling features. Its listing leaves travel unspecified, so make clearance needs a central fit consideration.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | A16 5th Wheel Hitch |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 16053 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 7257.47 kg |
| Model Number | 16053 |
| Additional Information | Important 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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#5
5. CURT E16 Slider
- Weight: 171 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Simple-operation 16K slider.
Why it ranks #5: A 16,000-pound short-bed slider with dual-axis movement, automatic coupling lock, and an anti-rattle skid plate.
A single operating handle and few moving parts make the CURT E16 a straightforward choice for short-bed truck owners seeking a 16,000-pound slider. Its dual-axis pivot allows 10 degrees of lateral movement, while an anti-rattle skid plate helps reduce noise during towing.
The E16 automatically locks for coupling, so the single-handle workflow combines easy operation with a secure connection. Its dual-axis pivot offers 10 degrees of lateral movement, giving the hitch movement across two axes as the trailer tracks. The anti-rattle skid plate addresses noise, while the alloy-steel hitch weighs 171 pounds. The supplied listing identifies an S20 slider as providing 12 inches of bed travel; it does not specify travel for this E16.
- 16,000-pound capacity
- Dual-axis pivot provides 10 degrees of lateral movement
- Automatic locking supports secure coupling
- Single handle, few moving parts, and anti-rattle skid plate
- The listing does not specify the E16 slider’s travel distance.
Skip it if you need a stated travel distance; the CURT S25 16574 listing specifies smooth slider operation but not a measurement either.
Choose this CURT for a short-bed truck when a 16,000-pound rating, automatic locking, and a simple single-handle operation suit your setup. Its listing leaves slider travel unspecified, so that detail matters when evaluating cab clearance.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | E16 5th Wheel Hitch |
| Item Weight | 171 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 16511 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 16511 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16511 E16 5th Wheel Slider Hitch for Short Bed Trucks, 16,000 lbs
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#6 · 25K Slider Base
6. CURT S25 Slider
- Weight: 129.4 lb
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Ergonomic slider operation.
Why it ranks #6: The S25 slider is rated to 25,000 pounds and offers 12 inches of travel, but the listing says a head is required.
The CURT S25 latches automatically in both directions, so short-bed truck users need to exit only once to move between slider positions. Its lever-lift motion and easy-to-reach arm put operation within reach, while the solid, quiet design targets chucking in the towing position.
Automatic latching in both directions reduces trips out of the cab during slider repositioning, and the lever-lift motion offers an alternative to a traditional pull-out style. The easy-to-reach arm supports access during operation. CURT also describes smooth movement between positions without binding and a quiet design intended to eliminate chucking in the towing position. This is the slider component only; the title states that a head is required.
- Automatically latches in both directions
- Lever-lift operation and easy-to-reach arm
- Smooth slider movement without binding
- Quiet, solid design targets chucking in towing position
- A compatible fifth-wheel head is required and is not included in the listed slider.
Skip it if you need a complete hitch with a head included; the CURT A20 16531 listing includes the A20 fifth-wheel hitch.
This S25 slider suits owners who already have a compatible head and want easier repositioning, two-way auto-latching, and lever operation. Account for the separate head requirement when planning a complete short-bed hitch setup.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | S25 5th Wheel Slider |
| Item Weight | 129.4 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 16574 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model Number | 16574 |
| Additional Information | Important 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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#7
7. PullRite 2714 SuperGlide
- Weight: 216 lb
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Ford puck-system auto slider.
Why it ranks #7: This automatic 16,000-pound slider is made for Ford short beds with factory pucks and provides 14 inches of travel; it requires a capture plate.
The PullRite 2714 attaches directly to factory mounting points on select Ford 6.5-foot beds with puck systems, avoiding adapter rails. Its automatic SuperGlide action provides 14 inches of travel for short-bed turning clearance, making the Ford-specific mounting and movement its defining combination.
Because the OE Puck Series mounts directly to the truck’s factory points, the listed setup avoids adapter rails and targets Ford short beds with the specified puck system. Automatic sliding supplies 14 inches of travel, so the driver need not manually reposition a slider to obtain that movement. PullRite states that a capture plate is required, an important additional component for planning the installation. The hitch has a 16,000-pound capacity and weighs 216 pounds.
- For select Ford 6.5-foot short beds with factory puck systems
- Direct attachment to OE mounting points without adapter rails
- Automatic SuperGlide operation
- 14 inches of travel and 16,000-pound capacity
- A capture plate is required.
Skip it if you need a hitch for Chevrolet/GM factory pucks; the B&W Companion RVK3710 is listed for the 2020–2026 OEM platform.
This PullRite fits buyers with a select Ford 6.5-foot puck-equipped short bed who want automatic 14-inch travel without adapter rails. Factor in its required capture plate and 16,000-pound rating when selecting the setup.
Full product details
| Brand | PullRite |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | Main component only |
| Item Weight | 216 pounds |
| Manufacturer | PullRite |
| Part Number | 2714 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Please contact us if you experience any issues within 30 days of receipt. |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 2714 |
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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#8
8. CURT A25 Puck Slider
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: High-capacity puck-system slider.
Why it ranks #8: Its 25,000-pound rating and 12-inch slider travel suit short-bed use, but the listing specifies compatibility only with select puck systems.
A 25,000-pound rating and 12 inches of slider travel make the CURT A25 a high-capacity choice for short-bed pickups with a compatible OEM puck system. Its quarter-turn anchors support quick installation and removal, while adjustable anchors address chucking between the hitch legs and puck system.
The quarter-turn anchoring system lets owners install or remove the hitch without treating it as a permanent bed fixture. Adjustable anchors help eliminate movement between the legs and puck system, addressing chucking at that connection. The slider provides 12 inches of travel in the truck bed, and the lockable handle resets to the ready-to-couple position after uncoupling. Compatibility is described only for select puck systems, so the truck platform matters.
- 25,000-pound capacity
- 12 inches of slider travel
- Quarter-turn anchors enable quick installation and removal
- Adjustable anchors address chucking between legs and puck system
- It fits only select OEM puck systems, not all truck beds.
Skip it if you need a slider that mounts to conventional bed rails; the CURT A20 16531 listing specifies a short-bed truck slider instead.
Choose this A25 for a short-bed pickup with a compatible OEM puck system when 12 inches of travel and 25,000-pound capacity meet your needs. Confirm the specific puck-platform match before selecting this anchoring style.
Full product details
| Brand | CURT |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | A25 5th Wheel Hitch |
| Manufacturer | Curt Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 16057 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty (One-Year Finish, One-Ye |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 16057 |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: CURT 16057 A25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch, 25,000 lbs, Compatible With Select Puck System
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#9
9. Andersen Ultimate Toolbox
- Weight: 45 lb
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Truck
Best for: Lightweight gooseneck conversion.
Why it ranks #9: The listing identifies short-bed versatility, 24,000-pound GTWR, two height settings, and compatibility with standard gooseneck hitches.
At 45 pounds, the Andersen Ultimate Toolbox Model offers a lighter alternative to conventional fifth-wheel hitch assemblies while accommodating a 24,000-pound GTWR. It works with standard-brand gooseneck hitches and provides two height positions, giving short-bed truck owners flexibility in mounting and trailer height.
The two positions place the top of the ball mount 16-1/2 or 18-5/16 inches above the truck bed, helping owners select a height suited to their setup. A remote latch/unlatch cable lets you unhook without climbing into the bed, simplifying access during departure. The aluminum construction keeps listed weight to 45 pounds, while compatibility with standard gooseneck hitch brands supports use across those platforms. The stated tongue-weight limit is 4,500 pounds.
- 24,000-pound GTWR
- 45-pound aluminum construction
- Two height adjustments: 16-1/2 and 18-5/16 inches
- Remote latch cable allows unhooking from outside the truck bed
- It requires a compatible standard-brand gooseneck hitch rather than serving as a standalone puck-mounted hitch.
Skip it if you need direct factory-puck mounting; the PullRite 2714 OE Puck SuperGlide is listed for select Ford puck-equipped short beds.
This Andersen suits buyers with a compatible gooseneck hitch who value low listed weight, adjustable ball-mount height, and remote release. Its toolbox-model format depends on that gooseneck platform, so it is not a universal puck-system fit.
Full product details
| Brand | Andersen Hitches |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Truck |
| Included Components | 1 item |
| Item Weight | 45 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Andersen Manufacturing |
| Part Number | 3220-TBX |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Model Number | 3220 |
Listed on Amazon as: ANDERSEN HITCHES | Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection (Toolbox Model) | 13" Tall Base, 24,000 lbs GTWR, 4,500 LBS Tongue Weight | 3220-TBX
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#10
10. B&W Companion OEM
- Weight: 166 lb
- Material: polyurethane
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer
Best for: GM OEM puck-system companion.
Why it ranks #10: This 20,000-pound hitch fits the 2020–2026 Chevrolet/GM OEM puck platform, but the listing does not specify short-bed fit or slider travel.
Compatibility with the 2020–2026 Chevrolet/GM OEM hitch platform makes the B&W Companion RVK3710 a focused factory-puck option. Its two-piece design and cam-actuated latch support installation and removal, while the fully articulating head pivots front to back and side to side.
The two-piece construction and cam-actuated latching mechanism are identified as features for easier installation and removal, useful for owners who take the hitch out between towing trips. The head pivots in both front-to-back and side-to-side directions, allowing articulation during towing. The listing also describes one-inch-thick cast-locking jaws and a 20,000-pound model title capacity. Fit is specific to the Chevrolet/GM OEM platform stated, rather than a universal truck mount.
- Fits the 2020–2026 Chevrolet/GM OEM hitch platform
- Two-piece design supports installation and removal
- Cam-actuated latching mechanism
- Fully articulating head pivots front to back and side to side
- Its stated compatibility is limited to the Chevrolet/GM OEM hitch platform.
Skip it if you drive a select Ford puck-equipped short bed; the PullRite 2714 OE Puck SuperGlide is specified for that application.
This Companion suits owners of the listed Chevrolet/GM OEM platform who value removable two-piece construction and a pivoting head. Its platform-specific fit is the key boundary; the listing does not describe a universal short-bed installation.
Full product details
| Brand | B&W |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Trailer |
| Item Weight | 166 pounds |
| Manufacturer | B&W Trailer Hitches |
| Part Number | RVK3710 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Material | polyurethane |
| Model Number | RVK3710 |
Listed on Amazon as: B&W Trailer Hitches 20K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch – Compatible with 2020-2026 Chevrolet/GM OEM Puck System – RVK3710
View on AmazonAvoid a short-bed clearance mismatch
A short-bed hitch can still leave you with too little turning clearance if the slider, trailer, or truck setup is incompatible. The listings show that travel differs: the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide moves up to 14 inches automatically, while the CURT E16 and CURT A25 Puck Slider list 12 inches. Those figures are not a guarantee that every truck-and-trailer combination will clear the cab.
Check the trailer’s front profile, truck bed length, hitch position, and the manufacturer’s compatibility guidance together. Also distinguish a slider base from a complete hitch: the CURT S25 listing says a head is required, so the listed slider alone may not be a complete towing setup.
Before purchase, confirm which components are included and whether the intended setup provides enough clearance for your particular trailer during turns.
Match the mounting system before choosing a hitch
A hitch’s capacity or slider travel cannot compensate for a mounting-system mismatch. The PullRite 2714 is specifically listed for Ford short beds with factory puck systems and requires a capture plate; the CURT A25 Puck Slider fits select puck systems, with no specific truck application given in the supplied details. The B&W Companion is identified for the Chevrolet/GM OEM platform, but its listing does not establish short-bed clearance.
By contrast, the Andersen Ultimate Toolbox is designed to work with standard gooseneck hitches and offers two height positions, rather than describing a conventional sliding base. Treat these as distinct installation paths, not universal substitutes.
Confirm the truck’s exact mounting points and required adapter or capture plate, then verify the hitch’s complete bill of materials and fitment for the truck and trailer.
How to Choose a Short-Bed Fifth Wheel Hitch
Turning clearance and slide travel
Look for a slider or an automatic movement system when a short bed could bring the trailer close to the cab during turns. The PullRite 4100 SuperGlide lists automatic movement of up to 14 inches; the PullRite 2714 also lists 14 inches, while the CURT E16 and CURT A25 Puck Slider specify 12 inches. These listed travel amounts are useful for comparison, but do not prove clearance for every trailer and truck combination.
Automatic operation may suit drivers who prefer not to adjust a slider manually; a conventional slider can suit buyers whose setup and operating routine accommodate it. Confirm fitment and turning clearance for your specific truck and trailer before choosing based on travel alone.
Capacity matched to the towing setup
Choose a hitch capacity that is appropriate for the trailer and does not exceed the truck’s towing limits. Listed capacities range from 16,000 pounds for the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide, PullRite 2714, and CURT E16 to 20,000 pounds for the CURT A20 and B&W Companion, and 25,000 pounds for the CURT A25 and S25. The Andersen listing gives a 24,000-pound GTWR and 4,500-pound tongue weight.
These figures describe different products and should not be treated as permission to tow above the truck or trailer ratings. A lighter trailer may suit a 16K option if all ratings align; a heavier setup may call for a higher-rated hitch, subject to the vehicle’s limits.
Truck mounting points and included parts
Start with the truck’s actual mounting system and check whether the listing includes the parts needed to install a complete hitch. The CURT A16 listing says base rails are included; the PullRite 2714 targets Ford short beds with factory pucks and requires a capture plate. The CURT A25 Puck Slider fits select puck systems, while the B&W Companion is for the Chevrolet/GM OEM platform.
The CURT S25 listing explicitly says a head is required, so check whether you already have a compatible head before selecting it. A truck with matching factory pucks may favour a puck-specific option; a buyer without them should verify the required rails or adapter rather than assuming the hitch mounts directly.
Confirm exact vehicle fitment and included components before ordering.
Which Short-Bed Fifth Wheel Hitch Should You Choose?
Choose the PullRite 4100 SuperGlide if you want an automatic short-bed slider with up to 14 inches of travel and a 16,000-pound capacity. For a higher listed capacity in a short-bed slider, the CURT A25 Slider is rated to 25,000 pounds; the CURT A20 Slider offers a 20,000-pound option, while the CURT A16 Slider includes base rails and is rated to 16,000 pounds. Ford short-bed owners with factory pucks can consider the PullRite 2714 SuperGlide, but note its capture-plate requirement.
If your truck uses a compatible factory puck system, compare the CURT A25 Puck Slider and verify exact fitment. The Andersen Ultimate Toolbox suits a gooseneck mounting path.
Do not choose the B&W Companion for short-bed clearance without confirming fitment independently.
Related Buying Guides
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check whether my truck and trailer will clear each other during a tight turn?
Check the truck and trailer manufacturers’ fitment guidance, then confirm the hitch’s available travel and mounting position suit your combination. A short-bed setup may need a slider for turning clearance. The PullRite 4100 is listed for short-bed trucks and moves up to 14 inches automatically, but verify your specific vehicle and trailer.
Do I need a capture plate, base rails, or a factory-puck adapter for my truck?
It depends on your truck’s mounting system and the hitch model. The PullRite 2714 requires a capture plate; the CURT A16 listed here includes base rails; and puck-compatible hitches require a matching factory-puck system. Check the exact hitch instructions and truck fitment before choosing or ordering mounting components.
How should I compare hitch capacity with my trailer’s loaded weight and truck ratings?
Use the trailer’s loaded weight and the truck’s applicable ratings to confirm the complete towing setup stays within every limit. The hitch rating alone does not establish that the truck can tow the trailer. Compare the listed hitch capacity with the trailer and vehicle documentation, and choose only a compatible combination.
Should I choose an automatic or manually adjusted slider?
Choose based on whether you want the hitch to move automatically or are prepared to adjust it manually. The PullRite 4100 is listed with automatic travel up to 14 inches, while several CURT sliders list 12 inches of travel. Confirm the specific model’s instructions and compatibility before deciding.
What mounting setup should I consider if I want to use a gooseneck hitch?
Consider the Andersen Ultimate Toolbox model if your intended mounting path is a gooseneck setup. Its title identifies it as the Toolbox Model, but that alone does not confirm compatibility with your truck or other equipment. Verify the required mounting components and fitment for your exact vehicle before selecting it.
Final Words
For a short-bed truck, the PullRite 4100 is the leading choice when its 16,000-pound rating fits your trailer and truck: it is listed for short beds and automatically provides up to 14 inches of travel. If you need a higher listed capacity, compare the CURT A25 Slider. Before ordering, confirm vehicle fitment, ratings, and required mounting components; consider the Ford puck or gooseneck options only when their mounting paths match your setup.


