Demco
18K Autoslide
18K lbs
Max Trailer Weight
4.5K lbs
Max Pin Weight
Our Assessment
Stupid Simple Score
DIY or Pro?
Installation
Availability
Where to Buy
Requires
OE Puck System
Expert Take
The 18K Autoslide is Demco's lighter-duty puck-mount auto-slider for short-bed trucks pulling smaller fivers. It automatically clears the cab in tight turns at a friendly price, though the slide hardware makes it bulkier to install and the tow is average.
About This Product
The Reese Autoslide 18K is the lighter-duty version of their automatic sliding hitch. Eighteen thousand pounds of towing capacity with the same hands-free sliding action. Short bed trucks get proper cab clearance without any manual adjustments - the hitch slides back when you turn tight and returns forward when you straighten out.
If your fifth wheel is under 18,000 pounds, this saves money compared to the 21K version while delivering identical sliding performance. Most mid-size fifth wheels fall well within this capacity. No reason to pay for weight ratings you will never use.
The automatic mechanism is mechanical, not electronic. Turning forces from the trailer activate the slide - nothing to power, nothing to fail. The system has been refined through years of production and works reliably in real-world conditions.
Installation is more complex than a fixed hitch due to the sliding components. Budget extra time or have a shop handle it if you prefer. Once installed, maintenance is just occasional lubrication of the slide rails.
For Ford Super Duty short bed trucks with factory puck prep. Long bed owners do not need a slider - save the money and complexity. But for short beds, automatic sliding means never worrying about clearance again.
Compatibility
Fits These Trucks
Ford
| Model | Years | Bed Length | Bed Prep | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F-250 | 2011 - Present | Short Bed | Puck System | All options → |
| F-350 | 2011 - Present | Short Bed | Puck System | All options → |
Compare Options
Related Products
B&W
20K Companion
Weight Rating
20,000 lbs
Head Type
fixed
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$1,199
B&W
25K Companion
The 25K Companion drops straight into factory bed pucks with no rails and locks down fast. Its cushioned head and full articulation make it the smoothest, quietest fixed fifth wheel you can bolt to a heavy-duty truck.
Weight Rating
25,000 lbs
Head Type
fixed
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$1,399
PullRite
20K SuperGlide
The 20K SuperGlide is an automatic-sliding fifth wheel for short beds, sized for mid-weight fivers up to 20,000 lbs. It self-slides on turns for full cab clearance and tows quiet, with the usual auto-slide weight and a step up in install effort.
Weight Rating
20,000 lbs
Head Type
auto sliding
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$2,130
PullRite
16K SuperGlide
The 16K SuperGlide is the smallest auto-slider in the line, made for short-bed trucks pulling lighter fivers up to 16,000 lbs. It slides itself back on turns for cab clearance and rides smooth; the sliding head adds weight and a bit of install fuss.
Weight Rating
16,000 lbs
Head Type
auto sliding
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$1,786
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
The 18K Autoslide is compatible with Ford trucks from 2011 to 2026. Use the fitment table above for the complete list of compatible year, model, and bed configurations.
The 18K Autoslide is rated for 18,000 lbs gross trailer weight (GTW) and 4,500 lbs vertical trailer weight (VTW — the pin weight your truck carries). Always verify your truck's tow rating before purchasing.
This hitch is considered DIY-friendly — most owners can install it with basic tools.
The 18K Autoslide is available from Amazon, Demco directly. Use the "Where to Buy" buttons above for current pricing and availability.
The 20K Companion offers the same cushioned, fully-articulating head as the bigger 25K, just rated for lighter fivers. It drops into factory pucks and tows about as smooth and quiet as a fifth wheel gets.