Can Grade 8 Hex Head Bolts Be Used Instead of the Carriage Bolts on the B&W Custom Base Rails

Question:

on a bandw rail kit is there any reason i cant use grade 8 hex head bolts through the bed rails into the frame brackets instead of the carriage bolts so i can use a torque wrench from above thanks

asked by: Daryl

Expert Reply:

The B&W Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches part # BWRVK2506 uses 8 carriage bolts to secure the base rails to the frame brackets. The base rails have 2 square cutouts on each end to accommodate a carriage bolt. The square cutouts minimize movement and allows for you to tighten one side without holding the other. Unfortunately, as the manufacturer recommends using the carriage bolts included in the kit I cannot recommend you substitute them for grade 8 hex head bolts.

If you have a short (6-1/2') bed truck then you will need to use a sliding hitch like the B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider part # BWRVK3270. If you have a long (8') bed truck then you can use a fixed hitch like the B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # BWRVK3255. Both of these 5th wheel hitches have a 18,000 gross trailer weight (GTW) capacity and will work well with the above base rail kit.

I have also attached a review video of each hitch for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L