2017 Ford F-350 with Factory Rail Kit Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation

Question:

I want to order a new 2017 F350 SWD 4x4 truck to replace the 2009 F350 I currently use to tow my Montana trailer. The new truck will have the ford hitch package. I see a number of hitches for the vehicle which one is recommended. My concern is the 2017 is at least 3 inches taller from the ground to the top of the bed. Does one hitch have more adjustments than others. Have you heard of any issues related to the height of the 2017 bed? With my 2009 that was 58 inches from ground to top of bed there wasnt a lot of clearance between the trailer and bed, now the 2017 is like 61 inches from the ground to the top of the bed. Is this going to be an issue or is there one hitch over another that works better?

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

The fifth wheel hitch I would recommend for your 2017 Ford F-350 short bed with the factory rail kit is the Demco Hijacker part # DM8550024 because it automatically slides as you make tight turns which means you wouldn't have to get out and operate a manual slider all the time.

The hitch height can be set at 15-1/2", 16-3/4", and 18-1/4". You want to maintain at least 4 to 6 inches between the trailer overhang and the bed rails of the truck. You may have to raise your trailer.

You can do this by moving the axles from being above the leaf springs to below the leaf springs.

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.

expert reply by: Jameson C