Installing Demco Hijacker Autoslide on 2017 Ford F-350 with Factory Rail Kit and Bedrug Installed

Question:

I have a question regarding the Demco RV Fifth Wheel hitch model DM8550024. Currently I have a Bed Rug installed in the bed of my F-350 short bed pickup. My question is can I simply cut out from the bed rug the mounting slots for the under bed hookup or do I have to cutout the entire footprint for the hitch?

asked by: Bill V

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch # DM8550024 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2017 F-350 if it has the factory rail kit installed.

I spoke with my contact at Demco regarding mounting the hitch with a Bedrug installed in the bed. He stated that the Bedrug should have been fitted/cut around the existing puck holes in the bed of the truck, but if this has not been done you will need to do so. The entire footprint of the hitch does not need to be cut out. He did state though that it would be best to cut out on the Bedrug around the outrigger bar that is in the rear of the Hijacker. He recommended that the outrigger bar be making direct contact with the bed of the truck.

If you do not wish to cut out a space for the outrigger bar, then he said it is acceptable to remove the outrigger bar completely and the hitch will sit flat on top of the Bedrug.

I have attached the written installation details along with a short video demonstration on the Demco Hijacker that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R