Parts Needed to Install Reese Titan 16K Sliding 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch RP30051 in 2016 Ford F-250

Question:

I have a 2016 Ford F-250 crew cab short bed with the factory fifth wheel set up in the bed. Will the Reese fifth wheel hitch RP30051 fit directly in the bed? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Jason A

Expert Reply:

The Reese 16K Sliding 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30051 is intended to install into industry-standard above-bed base rails. It will not directly fit into the factory 5th wheel under-bed rail system in your 2016 Ford F-250 crew cab but it can be used by adding in the Reese Elite Series Underbed Rail adapter # RP30156. The adapter fits into the under-bed pucks and the hitch then installs on top of the adapter. Note this adapter increases hitch height by 2-inches.

The link provided will show you hitches that directly mount in your under-bed puck system, such as the Curt # C16530-16020. These do not require the adapter.

Short bed trucks sometimes require a replacement 5th wheel pin box called a Sidewinder to provide 22-inches of additional turning clearance between the truck and trailer. The linked article will give you good background on these and explains how to see if one is available to replace the standard pin box on your 5th wheel.

expert reply by: Adam R