Fitment and Compatibility of B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch on a 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Short Bed

Question:

I have a 1500 Dodge Ram 2006 short bed If I set the BWRVK3255 hitch 4 inch to the back how much more weight will that put in the pin. On level ground I can clear the cab on sharp turns with my hitch But it will hit on uneven ground, will the BWRVK3255 hitch solve this problem. Thanks

asked by: Philip A

Expert Reply:

If you have the B&W Patriot # BWRVK3255 in the furthest position from the cab, the 4 inch distance, it will not change the amount of weight that is put on the pin. In fact you would be directly over the rear axle of your vehicle with the arms 4 inch rearward of the cab.

If this provides you with the clearance you need for your trailer then this could work for you. Typically, we recommend sliding hitches like the B&W # BWRVK3270 or the Demco # DM8550034 for customers with short beds. Sliding hitches help ensure that the truck cab and trailer clear each other even on rough terrain. I really like the Demco AutoSlide because it is a hassle free system.

Below is the Clearance Formula that we use to ensure there will be enough space between your truck cab and trailer when executing a 90-degree turn. NOTE: At least 4 inches of clearance is recommended to safely execute a 90 degree turn.

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from center of fifth wheel hitch jaw to truck cab
B = Offset used (slider clearance or Sidewinder offset)
C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (to get half)

First, you will need to measure from the center of the hitch jaw to the back of the truck cab. We know that the center of the hitch jaw will be centered over the rear axle for the # BWRVK3255. So measure from that point to the back of the cab, call it measurement A.

Next, you will need to add in the length of travel, since this isn't a slider we will add 0. Call this measurement B.

Next, measure the width of your trailer, then divide by 2 to get half. Call this measurement C. You then plug A, B, and C into the formula; (A + B) - C = Clearance.

For example: if the distance from the center of the hitch to the cab on your 2006 is 36 inches, 36 inches + 0 inches = 36 inches. If your fifth wheel trailer is 102 inches wide, take half (51 inches), then plug in: 36 inches - 51 inches = -15 inches of clearance. To safely make a 90 degree turn your calculation will need to have a positive of 4 inches.

If you would like to tell me a little bit more about your truck and trailer setup, I would be more than happy to help you get all the right parts for your trailering needs.

I have linked a few help articles as well as the products mentioned above to this page for your convenience.