I don't know exactly how to post questions on here. I am buying a 2012 (new) Crossroads Cruiser 30 KRX. I have a 2011 Super Duty Diesel truck with a 6.5 foot bed. Do I need a slider fifth wheel hitch?
With the new design of the front cap, they claim you don't need a slider.
With that being said, I have one. I guess I'm from the old school. I would find it hard to "not" have a slider. I just like the peace of mind it gives me when we get in a tight situation. I also have the 6.5 box. A lot will depend on what type of situations you think you will be backing into---you will get closer to your back window backing up then you will going forward.
So I think it will all depend on what you are comfortable with.
I agree with Old Farmer. I have the old style front cap though. I use it sometimes but not often. I normally post the DW near the cab when I think it will be "close"
I have the old style cap and 6.5 bed and I use the slide from time to time. The difference in cost is far less than the insurance deductible and inconvenience. Personally, I would have it when I need it, than need it and not have it.
Buy the slider. You don't have to then worry about catching the corner with sharp turns. It will also allow you to back up easier when in the rear position, moving the pin closer to the rear of the vehicle.
I have one even with an 8' bed (bought used) and I'm really glad I do.
Get a slider! Besides saving the truck cab from possible damage, it will also help you to manuover easier when backing up because the kingpin pivot center is about a foot behind the rear axle centerline. I always use it to back up.
__________________ Cheers Helen & George VE3INB and Max (Bichon Frise) 2006 Silverado 2500HD D/A, 2006 Cruiser CF30SK
Get the slider. Other thing it will do is help give you more effective clearance from the bed to trailer in rough ground such as steep driveways into some forest service campgrounds. This is even true with the 8 foot beds.
For the difference in cost, get the slider. But you really don't need it if you are careful (which everyone should be). Back in the really, really 'old days' there was no such item as a slider hitch or even a curved front cap and max. angle was limited to under 60 degrees. That is still greater than most TT's can be jack-knifed and far more than the truck's steering wheels can be turned (about 36 degrees). The point is that by jockeying back and forth, turns sharper than 60 degrees can still be made w/o stressing the trailer's suspension. IMHO a good number of tire separations on the road are caused by previous stress between the tire body and tread during sharp maneuvering
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Larry Day
Texas Baptist Men-Retiree Builders member since '01
13 Silverado 3500HD D/A, 2wd CCSB srw, custom RKI bed
11 Cruiser CF32MK https://www.picturetrail.com/dayle1
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