PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew Review

My Journey with the PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew

For over a decade, I’ve wrangled gear in environments ranging from dusty workshops to sterile labs, and the open field to precise engineering settings. My need for reliable, functional equipment is paramount. This brought me to the PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew, a system designed to tackle the unique challenges of fifth-wheel towing with shorter truck beds. The core issue was maximizing towing capability in my Ford F-150 SuperCrew, which, with its 5’6″ bed, typically falls outside the recommended range for such trailers. I needed a mounting solution that offered both security and maneuverability, without compromising safety or damaging either vehicle. After much deliberation, I opted for this kit over some generic rail systems that lacked the integrated glide functionality. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; the metal components felt robust, and the bracketry appeared thoughtfully engineered for a precise fit. There was a palpable sense of relief, knowing I had a specialized solution for a common towing predicament.


Real-World Testing: Putting PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing environment was centered around my garage and local roads, leading into highway testing scenarios. I specifically chose to test the kit with a moderately sized fifth-wheel trailer, focusing on low-speed maneuvering and tighter turns that are critical for short-bed trucks. The installation process was largely straightforward, thanks to the custom-designed mounting brackets, though it did require careful alignment. Performance was immediately noticeable; the SuperGlide mechanism allowed for a much tighter turning radius than I would have anticipated with a standard fifth-wheel hitch on this truck configuration. There were no immediate issues or surprises, but the learning curve involved understanding the SuperGlide’s automatic sliding action, which is designed to prevent cab-to-trailer contact.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and multiple towing excursions, the PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew has proven to be a steadfast performer. It has held up exceptionally well under repeated use, enduring varying road conditions and occasional exposure to dust and light moisture without any significant degradation. The SuperRails and posts remain secure, and the hitch mechanism continues to operate smoothly. Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving occasional lubrication of the sliding components as recommended by PullRite. Compared to previous experiences with less sophisticated fifth-wheel hitches, this system’s ability to automatically adjust its position during turns has been a game-changer, significantly enhancing confidence and reducing wear on both trailer and truck components.

Breaking Down the Features of PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew

Specifications

The PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew is a specific mounting solution designed for the Ford F-150 SuperCrew models from 2001 to 2003, featuring a 5’6″ bed. Its primary feature is the SuperRail system, which is totally removable, allowing for quick conversion back to a standard truck bed. This kit includes the removable SuperRails, posts, mounting brackets, and all necessary hardware for installation. The core of the system is the SuperGlide hitch technology (though this kit only includes the rails and mounting for a compatible hitch). The totally removable baserail design is crucial for trucks with shorter beds, as it addresses the common clearance issues that arise during turns. This specification is particularly important because it directly impacts maneuverability and prevents potential damage, which is essential when towing with a short-bed truck.

Performance & Functionality

In practice, the kit performs its main job exceptionally well: facilitating fifth-wheel towing with a truck that would otherwise be less suitable. The ability for the hitch (when paired with a SuperGlide hitch head) to slide forward and backward automatically is its crowning achievement. This automatic sliding action is crucial for navigating tight turns without the trailer impacting the truck’s cab. Its primary strength lies in enabling tighter turning radii, a feat often considered impossible with standard hitches on short-bed trucks. The only significant limitation arises in extreme scenarios where there is less than 3″ clearance between the cab and trailer during a 90-degree turn; in such cases, this system is not recommended, necessitating careful trailer selection. This limitation is clearly stated by the manufacturer and is a vital consideration for anyone with very large or awkwardly designed trailers.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Superrail Kit is focused on practicality and utility. The mounting brackets are engineered for a specific vehicle fit, suggesting a robust and secure connection. The use of durable materials ensures it can withstand the stresses of towing heavy loads. The totally removable aspect of the SuperRails is a significant ergonomic advantage, as it means you don’t permanently sacrifice bed utility. Removing the rails is relatively straightforward once the initial installation is complete, allowing for quick changes between towing and hauling. The overall feel is one of industrial strength, built for purpose rather than aesthetics, which is perfectly acceptable for this type of equipment.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on the materials and construction, this PullRite kit is built for long-term durability under typical towing conditions. The steel components are coated to resist corrosion, and the overall design minimizes potential failure points. Its longevity will, of course, depend on proper installation and adherence to maintenance guidelines. Keeping the sliding surfaces of the corresponding hitch head clean and lubricated is key to sustained performance and ease of use. There are no readily apparent weak points in the rail and bracket system itself, assuming it is installed correctly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific product is a mounting kit and therefore is designed to work with a compatible PullRite SuperGlide hitch head. It does not come with a hitch head itself, which is a critical point for potential buyers. The kit includes removable SuperRails and posts, mounting brackets, and hardware, which are the essential components for attaching a SuperGlide hitch to the specific truck model. While the kit itself isn’t highly customizable, its main “feature” is enabling the use of the SuperGlide technology, which is the customization that matters most for short-bed towing. The design emphasizes compatibility with the PullRite ecosystem.

Pros and Cons of PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew

Pros

  • Enables fifth-wheel towing on short-bed trucks: This kit specifically addresses the clearance issues common with trucks like the Ford F-150 SuperCrew (5’6″ bed).
  • Totally removable SuperRail design: Allows for quick removal of the towing setup, restoring full bed utility when not towing.
  • Custom-designed mounting brackets: Ensures a more precise and secure fit for the specified Ford truck models.
  • Robust construction: Built with durable materials to withstand the demands of towing.
  • Facilitates tighter turning: Works in conjunction with a SuperGlide hitch to allow for significantly better maneuverability.

Cons

  • Requires a compatible SuperGlide hitch head: This kit is a mounting solution and does not include the actual fifth-wheel hitch mechanism.
  • Not recommended for extremely close cab-to-trailer clearance: In situations with less than 3″ clearance, even with the SuperGlide, it is not advised.
  • Specific vehicle fitment: This kit is designed for a very narrow range of Ford truck models and bed lengths.


Who Should Buy PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew?

This PullRite Superrail Kit is an excellent choice for owners of a 2001-2003 Ford F-150 SuperCrew with the 5’6″ bed who want to tow a fifth-wheel trailer. It is particularly beneficial for those who frequently switch between towing and needing full truck bed utility. If you’ve been told fifth-wheel towing isn’t feasible for your truck due to bed length, this kit, paired with the appropriate hitch, offers a viable solution.

Those who are looking for a universal mounting system or who have a truck with a bed longer than 6′ will likely not need this specific kit. It’s also important to note that buyers must also purchase a compatible PullRite SuperGlide hitch head to gain the full benefit of the automatic sliding feature. Ensure you also carefully consider your trailer’s dimensions to confirm you have adequate clearance even with this system.

Conclusion on PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew

The PullRite 3111 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Pullrite Superglide #3100 Superrail Kit Ford 2001 2003 F 150 Supercrew is a highly effective and well-engineered solution for a specific towing challenge. Its ability to facilitate fifth-wheel towing on short-bed trucks like the 2001-2003 F-150 SuperCrew is its primary strength, offering a significant improvement in maneuverability. The removable SuperRail design is a practical consideration that maintains truck bed versatility. While it requires the purchase of a separate SuperGlide hitch head and has limitations regarding extremely tight clearances, for its intended application, it delivers on its promise. For owners of the specified Ford trucks who are committed to fifth-wheel towing, this kit represents a solid investment in both capability and safety, justifying its price point for the specialized function it provides.

Leave a Comment