Will Older Reese 16K Slider Hitch Work on 2012 Ford F-350 SD With Factory Tow Prep Package

Question:

I traded my 2000 F-250 w/6foot box and bought a 2012 F-350 w/8foot box with the factory fifth wheel prep kit. I was wondering if the hitch adapter kit #RP58419 would work with the hitch I had from my previous truck? I have a Reese 16k square tube sliding hitch, I know a slide isnt needed but I would like to sell this hitch and buy the right one eventually. Just looking for a way to pull quickly without the cost. Thanks.

asked by: Rick

Expert Reply:

The Ford factory tow prep package on the 2012 Ford F-350 is designed to accept the Reese M5 Series hitches like the Reese M5 Series 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch, part # RP30921.

The older Reese Signature Series hitches will work on the Ford factory tow prep package with the use of the Reese Signature Series Hitch Adapter, part # RP58419, that you have referenced. This spacer kit is needed to provide clearance for the Signature Series hitches to seat properly in the Ford factory tow prep package under-bed rails.

Your Reese 16K square tube slider hitch will need to be a Signature Series model for the # RP58419 adapter to work on your new 2012 Ford F-350. The Signature Series hitch will look like the newer Elite Series hitches and have the name Signature Series on the hitch.

If your Reese 16K slider hitch is not a Signature Series hitch you would need to purchase the Reese Elite Series Underbed Rail Adapter, part # RP30156. This adapter will allow you to install the standard fifth wheel hitch that will use above-bed base rails, on your Ford factory tow prep package. I am including a link to the instructions on the Reese Underbed Adapter.

Since you now have an 8 foot bed you will most likely have no need for the slider function of the Reese slider hitch. This means you can just leave the hitch in the towing position all the time.

I am including a link to a FAQ page on the Ford Trailer Tow Prep Package.