The PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch: Not Just Another Review
For anyone who has wrestled with tight turns and trailer clearance, especially in a short-bed truck, the PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch promises a significant sigh of relief. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across various demanding environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of towing solutions, and this particular model from PullRite caught my eye for its automated approach to a common towing headache. The need arose from a recent upgrade to a truck with a significantly shorter bed than I was accustomed to, making previous towing experiences with my fifth-wheel trailer a constant exercise in anxiety and meticulous maneuvering. First impressions of the unit were positive; the construction felt robust, with a substantial heft that immediately conveyed durability, and the visible components suggested thoughtful engineering. While I briefly considered simpler, manual slider hitches or even a gooseneck conversion, the allure of an automatically adjusting hitch for the sake of convenience and safety was too strong to ignore. My initial reaction upon seeing it installed was a distinct sense of anticipation and a hopeful exhale, knowing that the days of trailer-bumper stress might be behind me.
Real-World Testing: Putting PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial tests with the PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch took place immediately after installation, primarily in my driveway and then on a relatively straightforward trip to a local campground. I specifically focused on navigating tight residential streets and a somewhat confined campsite entrance to simulate common challenges. The hitch performed exceptionally well in these initial scenarios, demonstrating a smooth, automatic slide that gave me ample confidence during sharp turns, even with my short-bed truck. I was impressed by how intuitively the hitch compensated for trailer swing, requiring minimal driver input beyond the steering wheel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and numerous towing excursions, including longer highway hauls and more challenging backroad routes, this Superglide hitch has held up remarkably well. It has consistently provided a secure and stable towing experience, with no noticeable degradation in its automatic sliding functionality or overall structural integrity. The hitch requires very little in the way of maintenance; a periodic wipe-down and a check of the lubrication points are all that’s needed to keep it operating smoothly. Compared to previous manual slider hitches I’ve used, which often required significant physical effort and precise timing, this automated system from PullRite is a revelation in terms of both ease of use and reduced stress.
Breaking Down the Features of PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch
Specifications
The PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch boasts a 15,000 lb Gross Trailer Weight Rating and a 3,750 lb GTW Pin Weight Rating. This capacity is more than sufficient for a wide range of medium-duty fifth-wheel campers and trailers. The hitch is designed to mount onto standard ISR (Industry Standard Rails), making it a direct upgrade for many existing setups or compatible with PullRite’s own SuperRails. The automatically sliding mechanism is the star feature, engineered to extend the hitch jaws forward when turning, thus preventing trailer-to-cab contact in short-bed trucks.
This 15K capacity is critical for ensuring safety and preventing equipment failure, especially when towing heavier loads. The ISR compatibility simplifies installation and integrates with existing truck bed infrastructure, which is a significant advantage for many users. The core innovation, the automatic slide, directly addresses the primary concern for short-bed truck owners: avoiding costly damage from trailer-to-cab collisions.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, the PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch excels. The automatic slide engages smoothly and reliably, providing crucial clearance during turns that would otherwise be impossible with a standard fifth-wheel hitch in a short-bed truck. I experienced zero instances of trailer-to-cab contact, even during tight maneuvers that pushed the limits of my truck’s turning radius.
The hitch’s main strength lies in its set-it-and-forget-it operation, allowing the driver to focus on the road rather than constantly worrying about trailer clearance. Its primary weakness, if one can call it that, is that it’s specifically designed for automatic sliding; users who prefer a manual override or a fixed hitch might find the automated nature less appealing, though it does allow for manual operation in certain circumstances. Overall, this model exceeds expectations for its intended purpose of facilitating safe towing in short-bed trucks.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Superglide hitch is evident from the moment you see it. It features a heavy-duty steel construction with a durable powder-coat finish that has resisted scratches and rust through various weather conditions. The articulating head allows for a good range of motion, accommodating uneven terrain and ensuring a secure connection at all times.
While the hitch itself is not something you handle frequently once installed, the initial setup and any adjustments are straightforward. The jaw mechanism is robust and clearly designed for longevity, providing a solid and secure connection to the trailer’s king pin. The design prioritizes strength and functionality over flashy aesthetics, which is precisely what you want in a towing component.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extensive use, the PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch is built to last. The robust steel components and quality manufacturing suggest a long service life, even under heavy, frequent use. The lubricated sliding components are accessible for occasional maintenance, ensuring smooth operation over time.
I have observed no signs of premature wear, binding, or structural compromise. Its design seems inherently resistant to the stresses of towing, and there are no obvious failure points that would concern me. The ability to easily access and maintain the moving parts is a significant plus for long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” that comes integrated with this hitch is its automatically extending towing head, which is its defining feature. It’s designed to work with standard ISR rails, and PullRite offers their own SuperRails as an optional, fully removable installation system that leaves the truck bed clear when not towing.
While there aren’t many “customization” options for the hitch itself, its compatibility with existing ISR rail systems is a key benefit. This allows for easier installation and potential transfer between compatible trucks. The emphasis is on seamless integration and functionality rather than add-ons.
Pros and Cons of PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch
Pros
- Effortless Automatic Sliding: The SuperGlide feature is a game-changer, automatically providing clearance for tight turns and eliminating the stress of trailer-to-cab contact in short-bed trucks.
- Robust Build Quality: Constructed with heavy-duty steel, this hitch inspires confidence with its substantial weight and durable finish, promising excellent longevity.
- Industry Standard Compatibility: Designed to work with ISR rails, it offers straightforward installation or integration with existing truck bed setups.
- High Towing Capacity: The 15,000 lb rating is ample for most recreational fifth-wheel trailers, ensuring safe and secure towing.
- Reduced Driver Fatigue: By automating a critical function, it significantly reduces the mental load and physical effort required for towing.
Cons
- Price Point: This is a premium towing solution, and the cost is a significant consideration compared to manual slider hitches or basic fixed hitches.
- Requires Specific Rails: While compatible with standard ISRs, if your truck doesn’t have them, you’ll need to factor in the cost and installation of the SuperRails or equivalent.
- Limited Manual Override Options: While it can be manually operated in some scenarios, its primary design is automated, which might not suit those who prefer complete manual control over every aspect.
Who Should Buy PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch?
This hitch is an absolute must-have for anyone towing a fifth-wheel trailer with a short-bed truck (typically less than 6 feet). If you frequently find yourself navigating tight parking lots, campgrounds, or challenging residential streets, the PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch will provide unparalleled peace of mind and prevent costly damage. It’s ideal for RV enthusiasts and professional haulers who prioritize convenience, safety, and the protection of both their truck and trailer.
Conversely, if you own a long-bed truck where trailer clearance is rarely an issue, or if you prefer the tactile feedback and control of a manual slider hitch, this model might be overkill. For those seeking to maximize their truck bed space when not towing, considering the optional PullRite SuperRails would be a wise addition for a cleaner, more versatile setup.
Conclusion on PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch
The PullRite 2700 Pulliam Enterprises Inc. Superglide 15K Industry Standard 5Th Wheel Hitch is, in my professional opinion, the gold standard for towing fifth-wheel trailers with short-bed trucks. Its automated sliding functionality is not just a convenience; it’s a critical safety feature that effectively eliminates the risk of trailer-to-cab collisions. The build quality is superb, the towing capacity is generous, and the overall user experience is one of seamless, stress-free operation.
While the price is an investment, the value it provides in terms of safety, convenience, and the protection of your equipment is, in my book, entirely justified. For anyone in the specified situation – short-bed truck owner towing a fifth wheel – I would wholeheartedly recommend this hitch. It transforms a potentially anxiety-inducing task into a remarkably simple and safe one, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.