Recommendation on a Lightweight 5th Wheel Hitch That is Compatible With a Sidewinder Pin Box

Question:

Im looking for a lightweight hitch that is easier to install and remove from the truck bed. The Anderson Ultimate Hitch is a possible option, but Im concerned about clearance in my 64inch bed currently have a Sidewinder pin box installed on the trailer. Recon advertises a new lightweightinch 5th wheel hitch, but does not mention the weight of the base and coupler head in the ads, which seems like an important omission for one of the key features of this hitch. Are you able to provide the weights of the two separate pieces of the Recon 21k hitch. Thanks.

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you. The Demco Recon 5th Wheel Hitch, # DM8550043, is a lightweight above the bed mounted hitch that is rated a 21K. The total weight of this hitch is 100 lbs. The Demco Recon will mount to the bed of your 2017 Ram 3500 using standard bedrails, like the Demco Universal Bed Rails, # DM6071.

If your Ram has the OEM 5th Wheel Towing Pre Package, you can us the Reese 5th Wheel Adapter, # RP30154, to mount the Demco Recon to your vehicle. The Reese adapter will sit into the factory hole of the prep package that are in the bed of the truck. You can then mount the Demco Recon to the adapter. Please note adding the adapter will add 2 inches to your hitch height. You may need to adjust the height of the Demco hitch to level the hook-up between your trailer and tow vehicle.

You will also need a wedge, # SWW-05, to use the Demco Recon with your Sidewinder pin box.

Unfortunately, the Andersen Ultimate 5th Wheel, # AM3200, cannot be used in conjunction with a Sidewinder pin box.

I have linked a couple of videos for you to review on the Demco Recon Hitch.