Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendations for 2011 Ram 3500 that is Lifted with B and W Gooseneck Hitch

Question:

Im purchasing a 1989 prowler 325, 32.5. My truck is a 2011 RAM 3500 MEGA CAB with a 4inch lift and 37inch tires. I currently have BandW gooseneck hide a hitch or whatever its called. I was looking to just get one of these 5th wheel to gooseneck adapters. Now where I need your help is, in my mind I cant figure out if I need one that you can adjust the height on or not. Or if that even makes a difference. Im thinking Ill need flip the axles or whatever thats called to. Im asking you guys and I know you need about 10 other details and measurements to even take a guess at helping me. Im sure you dealt with more ppl than me with a lifted truck. So any advice other than not lifting my truck? Thanks,

asked by: Travis J

Expert Reply:

Since you have a B and W Turnoverball hitch we have a fifth wheel hitch that is designed to fit it specifically. This will be the best option since a lot of adapters actually end up voiding the warranty of the trailer.

If you have a long bed truck you would need a stationary hitch. For that you would need part # BWRVK3500. If you have a short bed truck you would need a slider hitch. For that you would want the part # BWRVK3400.

Now lifted trucks make fifth wheel towing difficult as most trailers are setup up for stock height trucks. You can try moving the axles of your trailer under the springs for more height to help with that.

The diameter of your trailer axle will determine the size of the parts that you will need to order. If your axle is 3 inches diameter, the Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit, # K71-385-00, would be a great choice and if your axle is 2-3/8 inch diameter you could use the Over-Under Kit, # K71-384-00. These kits can be installed without welding but the manufacturer strongly recommends having the new spring seat tacked in place on the other side of the trailer axle.

Some refer to this process as "flipping the axles," but since axle has a slight bow to it you can't just flip them and reinstall them under the springs using the same spring seats. You have to install new spring seats on the opposite side of the axle so that it can be moved below the spring.