5th Wheel Hitch Recommendation for 2014 Ford F-150 with 6-1/2-Foot Bed

Question:

Hi, I have a 2014 Ford F-150, 6.5foot box with Hellwig overload springs. I own a 22foot 5th wheel camper that weighs 4500lbs dry.I may replace the trailer some year with something slightly larger/heavier, though not much so. Within the next week or two, I am looking to purchase your part numbers RP30051,RP50081-58. This is the hitch and custom rails for my F-150, is that correct? Also, how much does this hitch and slider combo weigh not including the mounting rails?. Can the hitch be easily separated from the slider for removal/storage? Is this the best hitch setup for my truck in the $700-$800 range? Thank you. Ive had nothing but good experiences with several purchases from etrailer over the years. Keep up the good service. Great website!

asked by: David F

Expert Reply:

The entry level Reese hitch # RP30051 and custom install kit # RP50081-58 that you referenced are both correct fits for your 2014 Ford F-150 with 6-1/2-foot bed. Even though your 5th wheel trailer is not especially heavy at 4500-lbs dry weight, a 5th wheel hitch rated above 15K will tend to include enhanced features that can make towing easier. Since this is a one-time investment I urge you to consider a little price stretching to get a hitch set up that will give you the most satisfying performance.

For example, Curt 16K hitch # C16521 and custom install kit # C16441-204 provide you with superior features like a round tube slider that tends to bind up less than a square tube like the Reese, and the hitch head includes a 360-degree cushioned pivot that makes it easier to hitch the trailer on uneven ground. This hitch will give you noticeably smoother towing than the cost-effective Reese.

The Reese hitch and rail kit together have a shipping weight of 210-lbs. Their actual weight without the packaging is about 200-lbs. A 5th wheel hitch head can be unbolted from the base assembly to make it easier to remove it but it is still best as a 2-person task.

The linked article will give you useful tips for your hitch installation.