Fifth Wheel Towing Using 2013 Dodge Ram Short Bed w/ Ramboxes

Question:

I have a 2013 Ram w/6foot bed w/Ram Box. Is there a 5th wheel system that will work with this configuration? I currently have a goose neck set up now but would prefer a 5th wheel set up to tow my 36foot 5th wheel camping trailer. Currently I have an adapter on the king pin to convert to a goose neck. Look forward to hearing from you.

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

Reese's official stance on the matter is that Dodge Ram trucks equipped with the Ramboxes can't be used for fifth wheel towing. The Ramboxes make the inside dimension of the bed narrower than usual, so the fifth wheel pin box will very likely strike the inside of the bed rails. They have had customer reports that using a Sidewinder makes fifth wheel towing possible by moving the pivot point far enough rearward (22 inches).

My Reese representative tells me that they have not tested a fifth wheel hitch installed on a Rambox equipped model, so they cannot confirm nor deny that it will work. I can't recommend it as Reese doesn't endorse it.

Sidewinders are pin box specific, in order to recommend the correct model for you I would need the manufacturer and model number of the existing pin box. This information can typically be found on a plate or sticker somewhere on the pin box.

I have linked you to an FAQ article about Sidewinders.

The # RP56011-53 install kit would work fine for your truck, but you'll want to use the stationary, part # RP30081.

expert reply by: Jameson C