Will a Reese Signature Series 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Fit a 2012 Ford F-250 w/Towing Prep Package

Question:

I have an older version Reese slider Part No. 30047A MFG Date 01-24-06. Purchased a 2012 F250 Super Duty with the factory installed 5th wheel under box puck system. Purchased the RP30156 adaptor. Problem, when all put together it is too high for the trailer. I adjusted both th ehitch and the trailer pin box. Need to lower 5th wheel atleast 3 inches. So was wondering if I took the parts from the RP30156, if they can be used to modify the Reese Signature slider 5th wheel. This would save me from having to purchase the RP58419. I havent purchased the used 18K signature slider yet, but would if I can swap parts.

asked by: Brent

Expert Reply:

The Signature Series hitches are compatible with the Ford underbed prep package with just the adapter # RP58419. The original Signature Series hitches have the same mounting feet (just a little shorter) than the Elite hitches.

If you are going to obtain a Signature Series hitch, that would be the ideal solution. If you want to keep the hitch you have and continue using the adapter, # RP30156, I do have an option for you. But you will not want to use parts from one kit to modify another part as neither part would be under warranty and since they are not tested together there is no way to determine how they would perform.

If you do stay with the hitch you have and the adapter, what you could do instead of lowering the hitch is raise the trailer. You would need to use an over-under conversion kit like # K71-385-00 for 3 inch round axles or # K71-384-00 for 2-3/8 inch round axles. This does require that the springs on the trailer currently be below the axle. If they are already on top of the axle then lowering the hitch would be the only option.

expert reply by: Michael H