Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch For A Camper W/GVWR 14,100 lbs With Hitch Weight Of 2,100 lbs

Question:

When choosing a 5th wheel hitch is there a certain of weight you should be about the weight of the trailer? I will be pulling it with a 2500 Dodge Ram short bed so i know I will need one with a slider just not sure what weight, is 16,000 sufficient or should i go 18 or 20 or is that overkill?

asked by: Dave M

Expert Reply:

I would recommend choosing a fifth wheel hitch with your future needs in mind. Fifth wheel trailer hitches have weight ratings that need to be more than the fully loaded trailer being towed. Towing a trailer that is heavier than what the hitch is rated for is not safe. There is nothing wrong with having a hitch that is overrated, especially if you might be towing a heavier trailer in the future.

Like you mentioned, you will need a slider for your 2012 Dodge Ram pickup. If you think your current and future loaded and ready to tow trailer weight will be 16,000 lbs or less then I would recommend the B&W Patriot part # BWRVK3270.

The B&W Patriot part # BWRVK3270 fifth wheel hitch has a built-in slider that provides you short-bed pickup the clearance it needs for slow speed turns. It has a gross towing weight of 18,000 lbs and a vertical limit of 4,500 lbs which gives you a lot of capacity depending on your needs. The Patriot has three height settings. It provides a safe and smooth ride and is very quiet. The B&W Patriot part # BWRVK3270 is well built and is made in the USA.

If you need a rail installation kit then B&W Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit part # BWRVK2600 is a confirmed fit. The custom-fit brackets mount to existing holes in your vehicle's frame.

If your trailer has a loaded and ready to tow weight beyond 16,000 lbs then let me know and I will be glad to send you other recommendations.

If you need a 7-Way connector for your truck bed, I recommend # 50-97-410.

Links with more information and videos are attached.