Can 18K Reese Signature Hitch be Replaced With 24K Reese Signature Hitch on 2008 Ford F-450

Question:

I have a 18K signature mounted on PN 300073 rail kit 08 F450. I have a fifth wheel trailer that exceeds the 18k weight slightly. 3800# pin weight and 19000 overall. I have considered buying the 24K but have read all kind of stuff stating that the rail kit is only rated at 18K. If you look on everyones web site, the rail kit recommended for the 24K is the 300073. Three questions 1 would I be wasting my money to get the 24k due to the rails etc. 2 is the 24 really any heavier built? I have looked at them in Camping world and cant tell any difference. 3 Will the 24K fit on my rails? Thanks

asked by: Don A

Expert Reply:

Reese does not produce the Signature Series line of hitches anymore. They have been replaced with the Elite Series line of hitches.

The new Reese hitch is the Reese M5 Series 25K Hitch, part # RP30922. It is rated for a gross towing weight capacity of 27,000 lbs. It also shows to use the Reese Fifth Wheel Installation Kit, part # RP30073, on your 2008 Ford F-450 Super Duty. I spoke with my contact at Reese and he said the # RP30073 kit is rated for what ever the towing capacity of the vehicle it is installed on, as long as it does not exceed the capacity of the fifth wheel hitch. So the new Reese M5 27K hitch will fit on your # RP30073 rails. I am including links to the installation instructions on the M5 hitch and the # RP30073 install kit.

The Reese 27K hitch does have a different head and center section, so the 27K hitch is built a little different to meet the higher weight rating.

I do not think you will be wasting your money on the upgrade to the 27K hitch and I would feel more comfortable knowing the hitch and rails would be rated higher than the 19K fifth wheel I would be towing.

expert reply by: Jesse M