Determining Which 5th Wheel Hitch To Use For a 2011 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab with 6ft Bed
Question:
2011 Dodge 3500 Mega Cab, 6ft bed. Which 5th wheel application will work on my truck? I am assuming it will have to be a slider. thank you
asked by: Randy
Expert Reply:
You could either use a slider type fifth-wheel hitch, or if your pin box is compatible you could use a Sidewinder king pin with a fixed position fifth-wheel hitch on your 2011 Dodge Ram 3500.
For a slider fifth-wheel hitch, I would recommend Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Round Tube Slider, part # RP30083 and Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, part # RP50140-58. The round tube slider provides 12 inches of movement to provide extra clearance when making sharp turns in parking lots or camp grounds.
To determine if you can use a fixed fifth-wheel hitch with a sidewinder, you will need to check our Pin Box Matrix, (see Sidewinder FAQ) to determine if your pin box is compatible with a Sidewinder king pin. A Sidewinder gives additional clearance needed for your fifth-wheel trailer and moves the pivot point closer to the tailgate of the truck. The Sidewinder adds 22 inches of clearance.
With a sidewinder king pin, you always have the additional clearance and you do not have to get in and out of your truck. With a slider hitch, you will have to get in and out of your truck to move the slider back and forth. The slider must be all the way forward when driving on roads and highways.
You should never use a sidewinder coupler and fifth-wheel slider hitch together, you would need to use one or the other. If you can email me the pin box manufacturer and model number, I can recommend a Sidewinder and fixed fifth-wheel hitch for your 2011 Dodge Ram 3500 w/ 6 ft bed.
I have linked a FAQ on Sidewinders that includes the pin box matrix to help you determine if your pin box is compatible with a sidewinder coupler.
Products Referenced in This Question
Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit w/ Base Rails for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Custom
- Above the Bed
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Square Tube Slider - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Sliding Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 15 - 18 Inch Tall
- 10 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- Reese
more information >
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