Can 2017 Ram 2500 Short Bed with Ram Boxes Tow Fifth Wheel Trailer

Question:

I currently have a BandW turnover ball installed in my 2017 Ram 2500 with ramboxes and with a 6 1/2 foot bed. For the trailer I have already purchased I am going to need a sidewinder for adequate turning clearance. First, I am assuming the sidewinder will work even with ramboxes yes? Secondly, can I STILL ALSO install rails or a 5th wheel hitch even though I have already installed a turnover ball hitch? I know they make 5th wheel hitches that can sit over the gooseneck ball, BUT I have read that you cant used that type of hitch with the sidewinder, it needs to be a bed installed or rail system 5th wheel. What can I use if anything that will install around or in conjunction with the BandW turnover ball simultaneously WITHOUT having to remove the BandW hitch? The trailer has a GVWR of 17,000 lbs. Side note and question: This work and play trailer is 51 1/2 inches half the distance, or 103 inches outside to outside across the front. The corners are not recessed so I am needing some serious clearance. Will the sidewinder will allow this clearance with several inches to spare for this truck? Thank you.

asked by: Rex K

Expert Reply:

You have almost the perfect storm for making it as difficult as possible to tow a fifth wheel trailer with your truck. The only solution for clearing the Ram Boxes is a Sidewinder pin box replacement like you mentioned but you can't use a Sidewinder with a B and W Companion hitch that installs into a Turnoverball gooseneck hitch. There's also not a fifth wheel rail kit we are aware of that can be installed with the Turnoverball installed too so only option would be to remove the Turnoverball unfortunately.

You'd want a custom fit install kit like the Reese part # RP50054-58 witch a fixed hitch like the Reese part # RP30928 to use with a Sidewinder on your trailer.

Sidewinders are pin box specific so you will first need to know what pin box you have now in order to pick out the correct one.

There should be a sticker or a stamping on the OEM pin box of the trailer that will list the pin box number that is on the trailer.

Once you figure out which pin box you have you can check the FAQ I attached that has a chart that shows the correct Sidewinder to get based on which pin box you have.