Reese Universal Rail Kit Installed Will Custom Brackets Fit Same Rail Location?

Question:

I have a Reese universal rail kit installed on my 2017 chevy 3500 dually. I wasnt aware the shop doing the work was gonna use this kit. Could I buy a custom rail kit and just remove the L brackets. Will the holes drilled threw the bed line up with the custom bracket kit. I just think the custom kit looks a lot better

asked by: Adam

Expert Reply:

The Reese Universal Base Rails and Installation Kit # RP30035 has to be square, but it doesn't have to fit in the exact location of the custom brackets for your 2017 Chevy 2500 dually. There is a very good chance that the # RP50066-58 wouldn't line up in the same location. I'd hate to have 10 more holes in your truck bed to make the brackets look nicer.

I agree that the custom kit looks better and is much easier to install, but most shops will use the universal kit so they don't need to stock the custom parts and pass the extra time cost on to the customer.

As long as the rails function correctly, I recommend leaving them. If you haven't added a second 7-way to your bed for easier connection of your 5th wheel, I recommend installing the 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Plug # 50-97-410. It connects in line of your current 7-way to give you 2 functioning connection points.

expert reply by: Jason S