How To Upgrade Weight Capacity of Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch

Question:

I have the 13,000 model. What if I wanted to go to the higher pound rating? Do I need the entire set-up or could I just change the head or some other parts? Thank you

asked by: Rich

Expert Reply:

The Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitches are composed of three main components; the head, base, and side plates. The base is what determines the weight capacity so you would need a new base to upgrade the weight capacity of the fifth wheel hitch. However, the base is not available separately from the head. It would be difficult to sell the old base without the head as well so most customers just sell the old hitch and get the one they want. If you want to save some cash, you can re-use your side plates and just get the Replacement Head and Base Assembly for Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches part # DM6077. Otherwise, you would just need an entire new hitch with base, head, and side plates like part # DM8550024 for Ford OEM side plates, part # DM8550034 for above bed side plates, or part # DM8550022 for demco underbed side plates.

Please note, you will lose 8" of front to back travel when switching bases.

expert reply by: Conner L

Dick B.

3/25/2020

Bought one of the first series of 18K auto slides and installed it in my 2013 Ram 2500 crew cab 6 5 box. From the beginning I complained to Demco about the squealing and sticking of this hitch when I turned a corner. It twisted so hard that my moore ride 5th wheel shock hitch bolts would work loose. I asked them to up grade my hitch and they said no. Now I see you can purchase a complete above bed hitch in 21K to replace your old hitch. What would I need to upgrade my hitch to a 21K system and what would be the cost?

Chris R.

3/25/2020

For a complete replacement you would use the 21K Demco Hijacker # DM8550035 which, like your existing 18K model, will mount right to the existing above-bed rails in your Ram. This will give you the newest/current version of the Hijacker at the highest capacity available.

Helpful Links

Fifth-Wheel-Hitch/Demco/DM8550035.html