Fifth Wheel Hitch Install Kit for 2012 Ram 1500 With 5-1/2ft Bed
Question:
Need to see if there's a fifth wheel hitch install kit for a 5 1/2ft box.
asked by: Jay
Expert Reply:
Reese offers a fifth wheel install kit for your 2012 Dodge Ram with the 5-1/2 foot bed. The # RP30035-386 is compatible unless your truck has the Rambox option.
Due to the very short bed on your truck, the only way you'll be able to safely negotiate turns without the front of the trailer hitting the rear of the truck cab would be to install a Sidewinder replacement pin box. The Sidewinder relocates the pivot point between the fifth wheel and the truck from the king pin/hitch jaw to the point where the pin box attaches to the fifth wheel. This extra 22 inches of clearance will allow a larger turning radius, up to 90 degrees in some cases.
The model Sidewinder you need is dependent on the manufacturer and model number of the pin box you currently have. This information should be on a sticker placed on your pin box. If you look at the Sidewinder FAQ page I've linked to, you can see a table at the bottom of the page that shows which Sidewinder models are compatible with which OEM pin boxes. You'll also see a clearance formula that will help you determine how much clearance you'll have the between the fifth wheel and truck.
If you don't already have a 7-way trailer connector in the bed of your truck, you can install one using part # 41157.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with 7-Pole Plug
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Wiring
- 10 Feet Long
- Custom Fit
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Reese Semi-Custom Base Rail and Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - Dodge Ram 1500
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Semi-Custom
- Above the Bed
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Universal Base Rails and Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 10 Bolt
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Universal
- Above the Bed
- Reese
more information >
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