Transferring Reese 18K 5th Wheel Hitch From 2006 Ford F-350 to 2012 Ford F-250

Question:

I currently have a 2006 F-350 long bed with a Reese 18K hitch part #30081 mounted to rails. I have purchased a 2012 Ford F-250 with the 6 3/4 bed. Do I need a slider? And, will it work with the 30081 hitch. Do they make no drill rails for the 2012 model if I decide to leave the old rails in the 2006 Ford? Otherwise, will the 2006 Ford rails fit the 2012 model? Thanks

asked by: Mark H

Expert Reply:

You will first want to check to make sure that your 2012 Ford F-250 is not equipped with the Ford 5th Wheel Tow Prep Package. If you have this package, your truck will have factory rails installed beneath the bed. If you have this system and want to use your existing Reese 18K 5th Wheel hitch, you would need to install Reese Rail Kit Mounting Adapter, part # RP30156.

If your 2012 F-250 does not have the hitch prep package, you will need to order new mounting brackets, unless you used the universal installation kit part # RP30035. If your 2006 F-350 has the universal kit, you can use those brackets and rails, but will need new hardware, part # RP30439.

If your 2012 does not have the hitch prep package and you used semi-custom mounting brackets on your 2006, you will need to order new brackets and rails.I recommend the Reese Quick Install Custom Base Rails and Outboard Install Kit # RP56016-53 for an easier installation that universal or semi-custom fit brackets.

For your 6-3/4 inch bed a slider hitch is required to provide clearance when making sharps turns. The other option would be to use a Sidewinder King Pin with a fixed 5th wheel hitch. For the correct Sidewinder, you will need to match up your the make and model number of your pin box (see FAQ).

I have linked an FAQ on the Ford Prep Package and an FAQ on Sidewinders.