SilverBack 331K & need for slider hitch

[segel10]

Looking at the SilverBack 331K. Truck will be a F250 CC with the 6 3/4' bed. Looking at the front of the SilverBack, I am wondering if a slider hitch is required. Any info from someone with this setup would be appreciated.

[iceblaze580]

I would get one rather be safe than sorry

[bigdaddy1]

I have a F350 CC that I use to tow my 3850RL Cardinal and I have the super glide hitch that is automatic slide. I love the way that it moves when I am backing or in a tight turn and I do not have to remember to get out and throw levers and such. It is not cheap but seems like everything we buy to camp and enjoy life is not cheap.

[TURBS]

I have one.
Need it yet ? Nope.
Will I ? Maybe!

TURBS
08 duramax tuned n modded
2011 32bhok Sabre
2015 camping "9 nights"

[Oakman]

Although the corners of the front cap on the newer Silverbacks isn’t cut inward as dramatically as mine, I don’t think I’d bother buying a slider hitch. If you do decide to buy a slider I’d get a manual one because chances are you won’t use it very often.

BTW, I have a slider hitch because with my previous 2008 Wildcat I needed it. Since buying the Silverback in 2012 I have never used the slider.

[Gitiup]

I have a Dodge 1 ton short wheelbase with a regular hitch for my 33IK only pulled it one time so far. You can turn that truck almost 90 degrees with no problem.

[jjvallee]

I was in your same predicament. I have a 2015 Ram SRW Mega Cab with 6' 4" bed. Trailer is Sandpiper 371REBH. No need for a slider. Turns 88 degrees. Looks like the tires are going to pull off the rims before I would have cab contact. If you need to turn that sharp you probably shouldn't be there.

[5er_tom]

I would spend the extra few $100 and get a slider. That way you will never have to worry about it. Dark, cold, rainy night and you need to turn sharp and back into tight campsite. That would be when you might get in trouble without a slider.


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[camper1999]

Originally Posted by Oakman

Although the corners of the front cap on the newer Silverbacks isn’t cut inward as dramatically as mine, I don’t think I’d bother buying a slider hitch. If you do decide to buy a slider I’d get a manual one because chances are you won’t use it very often.

BTW, I have a slider hitch because with my previous 2008 Wildcat I needed it. Since buying the Silverback in 2012 I have never used the slider.

X2 especially the way the Silverback is designed. No matter what newer model brand of trailer everyone I have talked with that has at least a 6.5 foot bed never used or needed a slider. Most of mishap stories you will hear about has some extreme condition like backing up a steep grade or pushing the 90 degree radius a few more degrees. You will love the Silverback!

[SilverbackMel]

2015 Silverback 33rl; 2008; 2500 Dodge short bed. Don't need it. Have it because of my previous 2011 Keystone cap design.

[Gene85222]

I have a 2013 Dodge 3/4 ton 6-1/2' shortbed with the Companion Slider Hitch. So far I have not had a reason to use the slider, but at least if I need it, it is there. I LOVE my Wife, but I like the 33 IK Silverback!

[Brentf]

33RK with '15 F250 6 3/4 bed. Don't need slider. I put a manual slider in case an extreme situation occurred or if in a few years I trade for a new trailer. But I have only used the slider during the PDI inspection to makes sure I knew what I was doing.

[Jim34RL]

The only problem is that if you do not have a slider hitch installed and the one time you need the hitch it will be too late.


I have a 16 K Resse manual slider in hitch in my 2008 Ram Mega Cab short bed truck and I did hit the cab just once. I was in a parking lot and did not extend the hitch before I tried to park. I thought I could get around a couple of other trucks and vehicles to fit in to the parking space. But I had to back up and the trailer jackknife before I new it. The left rear corner behind the door has a small ding. I was towing my old Cougar 318 SAB with the 88deg corners on the front cap.


So it is your money and your truck; but stuff happens!


I also always extend my hitch in what ever campground we enter. First thing out of the DW's mouth as we enter the campground is extend the hitch.

[Oakman]

Originally Posted by Jim34RL

The only problem is that if you do not have a slider hitch installed and the one time you need the hitch it will be too late.


I have a 16 K Resse manual slider in hitch in my 2008 Ram Mega Cab short bed truck and I did hit the cab just once. I was in a parking lot and did not extend the hitch before I tried to park. I thought I could get around a couple of other trucks and vehicles to fit in to the parking space. But I had to back up and the trailer jackknife before I new it. The left rear corner behind the door has a small ding. I was towing my old Cougar 318 SAB with the 88deg corners on the front cap.


So it is your money and your truck; but stuff happens!


I also always extend my hitch in what ever campground we enter. First thing out of the DW's mouth as we enter the campground is extend the hitch.

Jim, the front cap on your Cedar Creek is different than what is used on the Silverbacks. Here are a couple of pics showing the difference.

The Cedar Creek


The Silverback. Notice the lower corners are cut inward much more dramatically than the CC.

[MMattox]

For the cost of a new back window you can get the manual slider, I know this from experience. Better to have it and not need it....

[5er_tom]

Off topic a little... My new Wildcat has recesses in the front cap. This allows me to have a toolbox at the front of the truck bed. The former Rockwood was not recessed and would hit the toolbox.


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[ottawapaul]

Originally Posted by MMattox

For the cost of a new back window you can get the manual slider, I know this from experience. Better to have it and not need it....

X2. All it takes is one moment of inattention in a tight backing manouver .... And all bets are off. Don't ask me how I know.....LOL!

[camper1999]

The OP was specifically asking about a silverback, which are made different then most trailers. FR use to advertise it's silverback as a 90 degree plus turn radius with a shortbed and no slider. It still is but they don't advertise that anymore because of liability issues. There is always someone that will push the limits and do more then a 90 degree turn, which would be an issue even with a slider for many reasons, and then blame the manufacturer.

[chisumbella]

I have a 33Ik 2014 and my TV us a f250 king ranch short bed.. Never have needed a slider.. Parks just fine.. My problem is remembering how long it is..

[Oakman]

I agree with what camper1999 said.