5th Wheel Hitch

MemphisDoug · March 26, 2003

Has anyone here installed a 5th wheel hitch in their HD? If so, did you do it yourself or have it done? What kind did you install and where did you get it? I just ordered a new 5th wheel camper and need to get the hitch to tow it. Thanks.

BlackSilver · March 26, 2003

I've had them installed in a couple of trucks, and it's NOT a trivial do-it-yourself task. I've always had it done by the shop at our RV dealer.

My hitch is a Reese (16K capacity). If you have a short bed truck, seriously consider putting on a slider base. Will cost a couple hundred extra pesos, but greatly improves your ability to maneuver in tight spots. Also, get the kind that can tilt (you can lock out the tilt). This prevents ugly twisting forces in uneven terrain.

BDBWTE · March 26, 2003

I installed B&W Turnover ball gooseneck hitches on two of our DA's and my truck... It's not that hard compared to rebuilding a hydrostat or something... Help to put Putnam hitches on two powerstrokes and a Tractor supply special on a Dodge Cummins...

B&W Turnover ball's are good for 6500lbs King pin weight and 30,000lbs draw...

Colorado Kid · March 27, 2003

For a shortbed I would recommend, and indeed I have, the Reese or Drawtight (they are the same) 16K with slide.

I installed it my self, it comes with exteremly detailed instructions and is not that bad a job...I recommend a brand new high quality drill bit in the appropriate size, and you'll need a right-angle drill for a couple of the holes...I had to rent one. You'll also need a good torque wrench, but you always wanted one of those anyway, right?

For a longbed I'd go with the B&W Turnover Balland Companion 5th Wheel Hitch...a sweet combination that leaves your bed absolutely empty when you aren't towing. Installing this one takes some bravery...as cutting a 4" hole in the bed of your new truck is a little intimidating....save the liquid fortification for after that hole is in!

If you only care about towing the 5th wheel you can go the Reese/Drawtight way a little cheaper...I also bought the goose ball adapter for my Reese railes, so I ended up right around the same price as the B&W combination. The B&W is a cleaner set up when towing and when the hitch is out, but it won't slide. It also doesn't have the clank every time you start from a stop.

I chose to be able to park in my garage, thus the short bed with a slider and rocking head. My father-in-law has a longer garage and a nicer hitch.