Will the Reese Adapter # RP30156 Work with Older Reese Hitch on 2017 Ford F-250 with 6-1/2 Foot Bed

Question:

I recently bought a 2017 Ford F-250 short bed with the 5th wheel prep package. I have a Reese sliding hitch that’s about 6 years old. So, I have 2 questions. First, should I buy a new hitch that’s designed for the pucks, or will the hitch be secure enough with the mounting bracket? And, will the mounting bracket work with an older hitch? Are the feet of the hitches a standard width? Second, Our new truck is raised higher than the old one. I’m worried about the trailer riding level while towing with the mounting bracket. Is there enough room for adjustment to make it work? I appreciate any advice. Thank you.

asked by: Bryan

Expert Reply:

If your older Reese sliding 5th wheel hitch is in good working condition and it has a head that is adjustable enough that it can accommodate the additional height of the 2017 Ford F-250 then I see no reason to replace it.

The Reese Elite Series Underbed Rail Adapter # RP30156 that you are talking about fits directly into the pucks of your F-250 and provides connection points for 5th wheel hitches that are compatible with industry standard base rails. Since your Reese hitch should be compatible with standard rails you will have no problem with them working together.

The adapter will add about 3 inches to the height of your 5th wheel hitch and we recommend having 5" - 6" of clearance between the your trailer and the bed rails on your F-250. I have attached some photos for demonstration.

If you find that your 5th wheel hitch cannot be adjusted enough to accommodate your trailer just let me know what height range you will need and I can see what we have that will work for you.

expert reply by: Jon G