Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch Base Rails for a 2008 Dodge Ram Pickup

Question:

I am looking for a custom 5th wheel hitch mounting kit with rails that does not require frame drilling. My truck is a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 4x4, 5.7L GAS, quad cab, short bed, NOT mega cab. Any info would be appreciated. I have to self-install and dont want to drill through my frame. Thanks.

asked by: Zachary T

Expert Reply:

The base rail kit that I recommend for your 2008 Dodge Ram Pickup with the Quad Cab is the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit # RP50140-58. This kit uses brackets that are designed to fit to existing holes in your Ram's frame so you will only have to drill through your bed for the installation. These base rails are compatible with Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley, and Husky 5th wheel hitches. They are not compatible with the Reese Elite Series (Signature Series) or Valley UBS 5th wheel hitches.

If you do not have a 5th wheel hitch yet, I recommend using the Reese 16K # RP30051. This hitch uses a dual-jaw system for a more secure connection and jaw-to-king-pin contact which helps to minimize jarring and chucking. This 5th wheel hitch has a 16,000 lbs Gross Towing Weight and is rated for 4,000 lbs Vertical Load Limit.

I also recommend installing a 7-Way wiring harness in the bed of your truck for an easier and more convenient way to connect your 5th wheel trailer to your Ram Pickup. The Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness # HM42137 is an excellent option for doing this.

I have attached some review videos for you to view as well.

expert reply by: Jon G