How to Tow a 5th Wheel Trailer with a 2017 Ram 3500 with Ram Box
Question:
Can I tow a fifth wheel forest river camper 42foot long
asked by: Larry P
Expert Reply:
Yes, you can tow a 5th wheel trailer with your 2017 Ram 3500 that has the Ram Box feature. But there is a specific method that has to be followed or it will not work. Basically the issue on Ram Box models is that the bed a narrower than a standard bed so that when you make a turn while towing a 5th wheel trailer the trailer pin box can make contact with the sides of the bed.
To solve this problem you will need to have a Sidewinder pin box installed on the trailer and use a specific fixed 5th wheel trailer hitch.
I will need to know the manufacturer and model of the pin box on the trailer since whether or not you will be able to tow a 5th wheel trailer hinges on if there is a Sidewinder pin box that will fit. The pin box information is usually on a sticker or plate on the pin box itself.
If there is a Sidewinder that will fit in place of the pin box on the trailer then the next step is a 5th wheel installation kit and the hitch itself.
For an installation kit you can use custom kit # C16430-204. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you. For a hitch you can use the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs # C16115 with Wedge # RP64FR.
I have also included some links on Sidewinders and how to identify a pin box if yours does not have the relevant information on it.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Economy - Slide-Bar Jaw
- 13-1/4 - 17 Inch Tall
- CURT
more information >
Curt Custom Fifth Wheel Installation Kit for Ram - Carbide Finish
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Custom
- Above the Bed
- CURT
more information >
Sidewinder Wedge Kit for Curt E-Series Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitches
- Accessories and Parts
- Fifth Wheel King Pin
- Wedges
- Curt 5th Wheel
- Reese
more information >