Can Air Lift Load Lifter 5000 Helper Springs Prevent Installing 5th Wheel Hitch on 2012 Ford F150

Question:

Hi, I have a 2012 F150 FX2, and already have the Air Lift 5000 system installed. Am I now limited on what type of 5th wheel hitch I can purchase or out of luck completely? I didnt think the airbags would be an issue with the hitch until I started reading the forums. I called Aif Lift and he didnt seem to think there is an worries???? thanks

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

For some vehicles, the air springs would interfere with your ability to install a fifth wheel hitch, but this isn't the case in this situation.

I'd agree with Air Lift. The brackets that fasten the air springs to the underside of the frame bolt to the underside of the frame member, with a short length of the bracket that wraps around the edge of the frame member and extends upward on the outboard side of the frame by about an inch. As you can see in the photo of the Reese fifth wheel bracket, when the bracket is installed, there's plenty of room for the air spring brackets. You'll be able to add a fifth wheel hitch with no problem. I'd recommend the Reese Quick Install Fifth Wheel bracket kit, part # RP50081-58. A sliding fifth wheel hitch like the Reese # RP30051 would be an excellent choice.

To install a 7-way trailer connector in the truck bed, I'd recommend using part # 41157. You can see install videos by clicking the provided links.

expert reply by: Mike L