Recommended Fifth Wheel For 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 With A Short Bed

Question:

I would like to haul a 5th wheel camper with my 2011 ram 1500 with a 5.5 bed. Is It possible to use a gooseneck with a offset ball and a adapter from goose neck to 5th wheel? Im trying to stay away from a 5th wheel hitch as much as possible so I can have the room in the bed of my truck

asked by: Marcus

Expert Reply:

There are a couple of options for your 2011 Dodge Ram with the 5-1/2 ft bed.

I recommend replacing the pin box on your trailer with a Sidewinder. This will give you 22 inches of additional clearance from the pivot point and help make sure you clear the cab of your truck when making tight turns. If this is the route you wish to go, let me know what the pin box make and model on your trailer is and I will be happy to make some recommendations for you.

I have attached a couple of helpful articles that you can check out about Sidewinders and pin boxes and also how to measure your truck and trailer to determine clearance.

Another option you may wish to look at is to install the B and W Gooseneck, part # BWGNRK1309. This is a below bed installation which will give you the removable ball in the bed of your truck. The ball can be removed when you are not towing and free up your truck bed as you said you wanted.

I then recommend the B&W Companion Slider Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter, part # BWRVK3400. This attaches to the square gooseneck hole in the bed and gives you a dual jaw 18,000 lb fifth-wheel hitch, that can be removed, clearing the bed. This adapter is a slider so it will travel 12 inches front to back. Even installing this adapter, you will need to watch any turns to make certain you clear the cab of your truck. I have also attached some videos for the B & W Companion and the below bed system you can take a look at.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L