Autosliding 5th Wheel Hitch and Suspension Upgrade for 2019 Ram 3500

Question:

I have a 2019 Ram 3500 and I want to get a fifth wheel, my truck has the factory prep package, but I am worried about the ride quality once I hook up. Also do I need a slider hitch?

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

If your 2019 Ram 3500 has less then an 8' bed than I would recommend a sliding hitch. If your truck has an 8' bed a slider won't be necessary because there will be more room between the nose of the 5th wheel and the cab of your truck.

When you tow a 5th wheel with a truck that has a short bed (less than 8'), there can be issues when making slow speed turns where the cab and nose of the trailer get too close for comfort, and in some cases can make contact. Obviously no one wants that. That's where a slider can help, it moves the hitch back when making the turn so you can have more clearance. However most sliders on the market are manual, so they must be switched from towing position, to maneuvering position and back. That can be a little bit of a hassle.

That's why I really like the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # DM8550035. It solves both problems at once. The hitch will automatically slide to give you the clearance you need without having to get out of the truck. It has 14" of front to back travel and uses a rack and pinion system to provide the sliding action. It's rated at 21000 lbs GTW, and 5250 lbs TW.

Since your Ram has the factory package you can use Demco 5th Wheel Rail Adapter for Ram OEM 5th Wheel Towing Prep Package # DM6099. The rail adapter will drop right into the puck system, and then the 5th wheel will mount to the rail adapter.

To make sure that your Ram has the support it needs to comfortably tow your 5th wheel, I think the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F2616 will be perfect. They have a 5,000 lbs load leveling capacity and help support the extra weight from your trailer while giving you a comfortable ride. When it comes to air bags I prefer Firestone. In all my experiences they are very solidly built, I personally never had any issues, and they are used in many heavy duty commercial applications so they are my go to for air springs.

If you want to add even more convenience to your set up, the Air Lift WirelessONE Compressor System for Air Helper Springs # AL25980EZ is my recommendation. It will let you adjust your air bags from the inside or outside of your cab. There is a handheld remote, or you can even use your smart phone. This means the install is that much easier, no need to run wires or air lines to the cab for a gauge since it's wireless. This has to be my favorite compressor, mainly because of how easy it is to install, everything is combined in a nice neat package and includes U bolts for a drill free installation.

I linked the parts I mentioned and a few videos for you to check out.