Where Should Center of B&W Companion 5th Wheel Hitch be on 2018 Ram 3500 Long Bed

Question:

I just purchased the BandW RVB3600 base with the RVC3006 coupler for my 2018 Dodge 3500 DRW Longbed truck. Looking at getting a 101” wide Mobile Suites. Where should I locate the pin, over the axle, or forward of the axle, and if forward, how far? Also, what height should I set it in relation with the bed rails as a good starting point for a first time hook up to a not purchased yet trailer? Thanks

asked by: Mike L

Expert Reply:

The B&W Companion OEM Base # BWRVB3600 for the Head Assembly # BWRVC3006 does offer horizontal adjustments with the pivot arms to help with cab clearance if needed. With any hitch it is best for the hitch to be centered directly over the rear axle. Since you have a long bed truck you shouldn't need to worry about cab clearance so I recommend having the hitch in this position.

As you mentioned, the pivot arms on the base also allow for vertical adjustments to change the hitch height. The Companion has a height range of 17 to 19 inches so you can simply start in the middle at 18 inches to see if this allows the trailer to be level when hooked up. Once you have the trailer in hand you can also take a measurement from the ground to the king pin. This is what you want the measurement to be from the ground to the top of the fifth-wheel hitch when it's mounted in your truck bed.

Also keep in mind that most trailer pin boxes can be adjusted as well by moving to different mounting holes.

expert reply by: Chris R