Recommendation for Towing 5th Wheel Trailer with 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 with 5-1/2 Foot Bed

Question:

Hi, I have a 2014 Dodge 1500 with a 5foot 7inch box. Do you have a 5th wheel hitch that will work with that model? Thank you.

asked by: Cage

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have a couple different recommendations that will allow you to pull a trailer with your 2014 Dodge Ram that has a 5-1/2 foot bed. The first is with a fixed fifth wheel hitch and a Sidewinder King Pin. This combination will give you the necessary cab clearance to make sharp turns with your short bed truck.

Starting with the hitch, I recommend taking a look at the Reese M5 5th Wheel Hitch # RP30928, along with the Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit # RP50142-58. This is an excellent hitch that features a forged, single jaw to provide a secure connection to the trailer and a 4-Way pivoting head that eases hookup. It has a 20,000 pound towing capacity and an adjustable height of 14 to 18 inches. The Installation kit includes custom brackets that will use existing holes in your truck's frame. This will drastically reduce installation time and drilling when compared to universal kits.

Then, to choose the correct Sidewinder King Pin, you will need to locate the existing pin box number on your trailer. Because Sidewinder King Pins are designed to replace the factory pin box, your pin box information is needed so that you choose the right one. The number should be located with a sticker or stamped into the pin box itself. For example, the Reese Sidewinder # RP34FR is designed to replace the Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD pin boxes. The Sidewinder will move the pivot point 22 inches behind the king pin, which is what will provide you with the necessary cab clearance.

Another option, instead of going with a fixed hitch and Sidewinder, is with the Demco Hijacker Autoslide # DM8550040 and Custom Installation Kit # DM8552030-71. This is the only sliding hitch available, with its sliding travel of 22-1/2 inches, that will provide enough cab clearance when making turns with your 5-1/2 foot bed. It will actually slide automatically so you don't need to get out of the cab, and features a wraparound, single-piece jaw for a secure connection.