2003 Dodge Ram 2500 Fifth Wheel Hitch and Rail Kit Recommendation
Question:
Can you help me look at options for a manual 5th wheel slider that will fit a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 shortbed with the Cummins. I have been looking at Reese and Curt so far. As far as brackets go, Ive been told by a shop that I need special brackets for the Dodge. Others have told me, thats only if I have overload springs. I looked and dont see anything connected to the frame indicating overload springs.
asked by: John
Expert Reply:
I would love to help you pick out a fifth wheel hitch and rail kit for your 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 with a short bed and Cummins engine.
First lets start with a rail kit. A custom install kit will cut install time in half and will minimize drilling over a universal kit so I would recommend that route. For that I would recommend the install kit part # RP50140-58. The only Rams that have interference issues caused by overload springs are the newer Rams so that isn't an issue for you. I attached an install video for this kit for you to check out as well.
For a slider hitch I really like the Reese Hitch part # RP30075. This hitch has a cushioned head and jaw design that provides great king pin contact for a very smooth ride quality. This hitch also has a round tube slider that will operate much smoother than a square tube. I attached a review for you to check out as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Round Tube Slider - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Sliding Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 15 - 18 Inch Tall
- 11 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- Reese
more information >
Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit w/ Base Rails for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Custom
- Above the Bed
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit w/ Base Rails for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Custom
- Above the Bed
- Reese
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Towing Capacity of 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 Diesel
- Q&A: Fifth Wheel Rail Kit Recommendation for a 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Short Bed
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Q&A: How to Determine if a 2003 Dodge Ram has Overload Springs
- Q&A: 5th Wheel Install Kit Recommendation for 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 Mega Cab With 6-Foot Bed
- Q&A: Replacement Monitor For Zone Defense Camera Monitor On a 2011 Monaco Diplomat 43DFT
- Article: Best Boat Accessories
- Q&A: Replacement Stereo Recommendation for a Axxera AV614BH
- Q&A: Recommended 5th Wheel Rails for a 2023 Ram 1500
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
- Article: Ram Trailer Tow Prep Package
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Sidewinder with Rotating Turret for Short Bed Pickups
- Article: Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Information and Installation Tips