Is Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Required with Reese Revolution Pin Box on 2006 Dodge Ram 2500

Question:

Hi, I have a 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Quad cab 2 wheel drive short bed. If the 5th wheel comes with the Reese Revolution Pin box setup do I still need a short bed slider hitch or can I go with a regular style hitch? If a short bed slider hitch is not required which hitch would you recommend that works with the Reese Revolution Pin box and a short bed truck?

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

The Reese Revolution Pin Box on your 5th wheel trailer should offer enough extra clearance for your 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 and trailer without the need for a sliding fifth wheel hitch. In order to confirm this, there are some measurements we can take using the rail kit instructions on a compatible 5th Wheel Hitch.

For a fixed fifth wheel, I recommend the Reese # RP30047, along with the Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, # RP50140-58. This system has a 16,000 lbs gross towing weight capacity and a 2-jaw locking system that will offer less rattle and greater security at the connection point.

To ensure there will be enough clearance with this 5th Wheel Hitch, we will take the measurement of the center of the hitch jaw to the cab of your truck - which according to the rail kit instructions, will be 36 inches. We will then add 22 inches to that length, which is the length of the Reese Revolution Extension to get to 58 inches. Next, you just take the width of your trailer and divide the number by 2 (to get half).

As long as the above measurement of 58 inches is at least 4 inches more than half of your trailer width, you can safely tow your trailer with the Reese # RP30047. So if your trailer is not more than 9 ft wide, there will be no clearance issues.

I also recommend a 5th Wheel Wiring Harness such as the Hopkins # HM42137. This will provide a 7-way connector in the bed of your truck for easy hookup with your trailer.

For a compatible 5th-Wheel Hitch with a Rail Kit that installs under the truck bed, I recommend the Reese M5 Series # RP30921 along with Under-Bed Rail and Installation Kit # RP30074. This has a weight capacity of 20,000 lbs and a self-latching jaw that wraps around the king pin for maximum security and minimum rattle when towing your trailer. The custom, under-bed rail kit will allow for uninhibited use of your truck bed when the hitch is removed. I have included a video for your review.