Can a Reese 16K 5th Wheel Slider Trailer Hitch Fit 2012 Ford F-350 with Factory Prep Package

Question:

Hello, Im moving up from a 2011 F250 short bed to a 2011 F350 8foot bed. The F350 is equipped with the factory installed 5th wheel hitch prep package. I currently have a Reese 16k Slider part 30051 Can I use my current slider in the new truck if I purchase the adapter kit 30156? How much higher would that raise my kingpin? An alternative - would be to purchase legs for my 5th wheel head legs part 30727. I assume that I would still need the 330156 adapter kit? Is there any other way to use my existing head, with a minimum of parts between it and the truck? What is your suggestion?

asked by: Greg K

Expert Reply:

First, you can use the adapter, # RP30156, with a slider. The height will be raised by 2-3/4 inches. But, the hitch head is adjustable 15 to 18 inches tall so you can move the head to compensate for the extra height of the adapter.

You can take the head assembly from the slider hitch and mount it on the legs, # RP30727 as long as the head spacing where the legs would attach is 3 inches wide. But adding legs is not necessary. You can use a slider hitch in a long bed truck, you will just not need to slide it out. It will just stay in the locked towing position all the time.

What I recommend, for the least amount of extra parts, is to use the adapter, # RP30156, with your slider hitch as it is. Just leave it in the towing position all of the time. The extra height of the adapter will not matter too much in the grand scheme of things.

expert reply by: Michael H