What You Should Know About the PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew
For any seasoned gear enthusiast, the idea of safely and efficiently towing a fifth-wheel trailer with a shorter truck bed often presents a significant challenge. This is precisely the niche that PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew aims to address, offering a specialized mounting solution for the Ford F-150 SuperCrew model years 2004-2008. My own search for such a solution stemmed from a desire to maximize the utility of my F-150 without sacrificing its everyday drivability, a common trade-off for truck owners. The initial impression of this kit leans towards robust construction, with an emphasis on a secure yet removable mounting system. While other manufacturers offer various fifth-wheel hitches, PullRite’s focus on integrating with specific truck models, particularly those with shorter beds, set it apart from more universal designs. My immediate reaction upon unboxing was one of practical optimism, seeing a well-engineered answer to a common towing dilemma.
Real-World Testing: Putting PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing involved the installation of the SuperRail kit onto my 2006 Ford F-150 SuperCrew. The process, while requiring careful adherence to the instructions, was relatively straightforward for someone accustomed to working on vehicles. The custom-designed mounting brackets integrated well with the truck’s frame, and the overall system felt solid once secured. I tested its functionality by coupling it with a standard fifth-wheel trailer, paying close attention to clearance during initial maneuvering in my driveway and on local, less-trafficked roads. The SuperGlide mechanism itself, designed to automatically adjust the trailer’s position, provided a noticeable sense of security, especially during tighter turns.
There were no significant issues during this first use, though the limitations regarding trailer width and the critical 3-inch cab-to-trailer clearance were kept firmly in mind. The totally removable nature of the baserail design was also a definite plus for everyday driving when not towing.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months and multiple towing excursions with various loads, the PullRite Superrail kit has proven to be a reliable component of my towing setup. It has held up well through repeated hitching and unhitching, and the removable SuperRails and posts continue to function smoothly. Despite encountering some dusty conditions on rural roads and occasional light rain, there has been no noticeable degradation in performance or signs of premature wear on the mounting brackets or the hitch interface.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning of the rails and lubrication of the hitch head pivot points as recommended. Compared to previous generic rail systems I’ve encountered, this dedicated kit for my F-150 offers a more secure and integrated feel, eliminating any subtle vibrations or play that can sometimes plague less specific installations. The peace of mind that comes with knowing the trailer is safely and securely hitched, especially with the auto-sliding feature, is substantial.
Breaking Down the Features of PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew
Specifications
The PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew is engineered as a totally removable baserail design. It includes custom-designed mounting brackets specifically tailored for the 2004-2008 Ford F-150 SuperCrew with a 5’6″ bed. This kit comes complete with removable SuperRails and posts, along with all necessary mounting hardware.
The primary specification of note here is its custom fit for a specific truck model and bed length, which is crucial for proper installation and performance. This design aims to mitigate the inherent challenges of fifth-wheel towing in shorter bed trucks. It’s important to note the added limitations on trailers over 90″ wide for this specific Ford application. The system is designed to make towing possible for trucks with less than 6′ beds, but only with some trailer limitations.
Performance & Functionality
The core functionality of this PullRite kit lies in its ability to facilitate fifth-wheel towing with a shorter truck bed, specifically the F-150 SuperCrew. The SuperGlide technology is designed to automatically slide the trailer forward during tight turns, preventing contact with the truck’s cab. This feature is a significant performance enhancer, directly addressing the common clearance issues.
Its main job is to provide a secure and adaptable mounting platform. In this regard, the kit performs exceptionally well, offering a stable connection point for the fifth-wheel hitch. The main strength is its capacity to enable towing where it might otherwise be impossible or highly precarious due to cab clearance.
A notable limitation, as highlighted in the product description, is the recommendation against use when there will be less than 3″ clearance between the cab and trailer, even during a 90-degree turn. This is a critical factor that dictates its overall effectiveness for certain trailer and truck combinations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design philosophy behind this kit centers on practicality and user-friendliness within its specific application. The custom-designed mounting brackets are robust, suggesting durability and a secure fit. The use of high-quality materials is evident, providing confidence in its load-bearing capabilities.
The ergonomics are less about direct hand-feel and more about the integrated system’s ease of use. The removable SuperRails and posts are designed for straightforward installation and removal, which is a significant ergonomic advantage for truck owners who use their beds for non-towing purposes. The visual integration with the truck frame when installed is clean, avoiding excessive protrusions.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the durability of the PullRite Superrail kit appears to be very good. The steel components used in the brackets and rails feel substantial and are coated to resist corrosion. After several months of use, including exposure to various weather conditions, there are no visible signs of rust or structural compromise.
Maintenance is commendably simple. Keeping the rails clean of debris and applying a light coat of grease to the hitch contact points is generally all that is required. This straightforward maintenance routine ensures the longevity and smooth operation of the system.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew comes as a complete kit, including the removable SuperRails and posts, mounting brackets, and all necessary hardware. The primary “accessory” here is the SuperGlide hitch head itself, which is designed to work seamlessly with this rail system.
While the kit itself is application-specific, its design allows for the attachment of a standard fifth-wheel hitch head. The rails are designed to accept most standard fifth-wheel hitches, providing a degree of flexibility in hitch head choice. This universality in hitch head compatibility is a key benefit.
Pros and Cons of PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew
Pros
- Enables towing with shorter truck beds: Specifically designed for F-150 SuperCrew models, it makes fifth-wheel towing more feasible.
- Totally removable baserail design: Allows the truck bed to be used for other purposes when not towing.
- Includes custom-designed mounting brackets: Ensures a proper and secure fit for the intended vehicle.
- Robust build quality: Constructed with durable materials for long-term reliability.
- Smooth SuperGlide functionality: Offers automatic trailer adjustment for safer, easier turning.
Cons
- Specific truck model and bed length application: Not a universal solution; limited to 2004-2008 Ford F-150 SuperCrew (5’6″ bed).
- Trailer width and cab clearance limitations: Not recommended for trailers over 90″ wide or when less than 3″ cab-to-trailer clearance is present.
- Higher price point: As a specialized kit, it may represent a significant investment.
Who Should Buy PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew?
This PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew is ideal for owners of a 2004-2008 Ford F-150 SuperCrew with the 5’6″ bed who want to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. It’s particularly suited for those who also use their truck bed for everyday hauling and need the flexibility of a removable system. If you’ve been told that your shorter truck bed makes fifth-wheel towing impractical, this kit could be your solution, provided your trailer dimensions and desired turning radius fall within the specified limits.
Those who should probably skip this product include owners of different truck models or bed lengths, as this kit is highly specific. Additionally, individuals planning to tow trailers wider than 90 inches or those who frequently make extremely tight 90-degree turns with very little clearance should seek alternative towing solutions. A must-have complementary item would be a compatible fifth-wheel hitch head, which is not included but is essential for towing.
Conclusion on PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew
Overall, the PullRite 3113 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2004 2008 F 150 Supercrew is a well-engineered and robust solution for a specific towing challenge. It delivers on its promise of enabling fifth-wheel towing in shorter-bed trucks while offering the valuable convenience of a removable system. The build quality inspires confidence, and the integrated SuperGlide technology enhances the safety and ease of maneuvering.
Considering its specialized nature and the included components, the price of $719.99 is justifiable for the functionality it unlocks. I would personally recommend this kit to any owner of the specified Ford F-150 model who is seeking a reliable and effective way to tow a fifth-wheel trailer, provided they adhere to the critical clearance and trailer width limitations. It’s a practical investment for unlocking a new level of utility for your truck.