Towing 5th-Wheel Trailer with 2008 Ford F-350 that has Inverted King Pin Welded to Frame

Question:

I have a 2008 Ford F350 Diesel that has an inverted stow-away kingpin in the bed. The bed has a steel plate bolted to the whole inside of the bed and the inverted kingpin mount is welded to the steel, as well as bolted to the frame. I do not need the kingpin for anything, but I am looking to buy a 5th wheel camper and I am wondering if there is a way to somehow set my truck up to tow it.

asked by: Douglas K

Expert Reply:

I may have a solution for you, however we do not carry any products that will allow you to use the welded inverted king pin on your 2008 Ford F-350 to tow a fifth-wheel trailer.

The only way to do this will be to simply remove the inverted king pin assembly from your truck completely. If you are able to do this, you can then just install standard fifth-wheel hitch rails to use with a fifth-wheel trailer hitch.

If your Ford F-350 has an 8 foot bed, I recommend looking at the Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30928 along with the Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit # RP50082-58. This hitch has a 20,000 pound towing capacity and a forged single-piece jaw that will provide a secure connection with the king pin on your trailer.

If your F-350 has a 6-3/4 foot bed, I recommend using a sliding hitch instead like the Curt 16K # C16521 to ensure you will have enough clearance when making sharp turns. You can use the same # RP50082-58 installation rails as above with this hitch. The slider will provide 12 inches of travel.