Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Installation Kit Recommendation for a 2011 Chevy Silverado 3500HD

Question:

What is the difference between the 10 bolt and 4 bolt rail kitsby reese. Which is the best kit to use 4 bolt or 10 bolt. Hauling 13,000 pound 5th wheel with 2011 chev 3500hd 6.6 bed.

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

The main difference between the 4-bolt and 10-bolt Reese 5th wheel rail kits is the amount of hardware used to secure the rails to the brackets, and the amount of time it takes to install them. According to Reese, for universal installation kits, they recommend using the 10-bolt kit as the best option.

Some of the custom bracket kits only require a 4 bolt kit because the brackets are custom made to fit the truck frame. For a 2011 Chevy Silverado 3500, I recommend the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, # RP50066-58. As you can see, this custom kit uses the 10-bolt system.

However, because it comes with custom brackets, installation takes 50 percent less time over a universal kit. I have included a link to the installation instructions and a video showing a typical installation for you.

For a 5th wheel hitch, I recommend the Reese 16K Slider, # RP30075. This is a round tube slider. The round tube offers 12 inches of travel for more clearance when performing tight maneuvers.

expert reply by: Michael H