5th Wheel Hitch and Rail Kit Recommendation for a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500

Question:

What kind of 5th wheel hitch do I need and will i need a extension or anything Im wanting to pull a 29ft Fleetwood mallard camper the gvwr is 10,200 and the gawr is 5,080 per axle and I have a 2003 dodge ram 2500 Larime crew cab 5.7L v8 hemi short bed And do u think this truck will pull this camper without a problem?? Thanks in advance..

asked by: Jeremy C

Expert Reply:

Based on the pictures you submitted you would need at least a 16k rated fifth wheel hitch based on the max weight rating of the fifth wheel trailer you have, and since you have a short bed truck you would need a slider hitch so that you can make tight turns.

The Reese Slider Hitch part # RP30051 that you referenced would be an excellent choice as it fits both of the above mentioned criteria and features a dual jaw design to provide excellent kin pin contact. Check out the review video I attached for more info as well.

For a fifth wheel rail kit you would want to go with a custom install kit as they will minimize drilling and install time greatly. For that you would want the part # RP50140-58.

Your truck should have no problem towing your trailer, but you should consult the owners manual of your truck to determine the towing capacity first.

expert reply by: Jameson C