Install Kit to Swap Lil Rocker 5th Wheel Hitch from 2011 Dodge Ram to 2015 Chevy Silverado 2500  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Fifth Wheel hitch install kit includes two main components, the rails that sit flat on the bed of the truck bed that provide an attachement point for the hitch and the frame brackets that sit under the bed and provide an attachment for the bed rails to the truck frame.

Unless the current frame brackets are part of a universal kit, the custom frame brackets are vehicle specific. We also STRONGLY recommend that the frame brackets and bed rails be from the same manufacturer. This way, you and your customer will know that the rails and brackets have been tested together, and the weight capacity of the hitch will be known and not be compromised in any way. Hitch installation hardware is meant for a single use only, and should be replaced rather than being reused.

The RBW Lil' Rocker is compatible with industry standard fifth wheel bed rails, so the hitch would be compatible with the Reese Custom Fifth Wheel Install Kit, part # RP50066-58 or the Curt Install Kit, part # C16411-204. Both these kits install using existing holes in the truck frame, so no holes would need to be drilled in the frame, only through the bed to connect the frame brackets and the bed rails. There's also a universal kit from Reese, part # RP30035 but this kit does require drilling into the frame, and would take about twice the install time as a custom bracket kit.

Your customer will also need a trailer connector installed in the truck bed. I'd recommend part # 50-97-410. The wiring harness would install into the bed side to the rear of the wheel well and would T into the connection between the vehicle wiring and the 7-way connector at the rear bumper as you can see in the video I've linked.

The existing install kit on the Dodge would not be compatible with your customer's new Chevy.

You can see install videos for both kits by clicking the provided links.

expert reply by: Mike L

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