Semi-Custom Base Rail and Installation Kit for a 2003 Ram 2500 and a Husky Slider 5th Wheel Hitch

Question:

Could I use this universal rails and parts to install my Husky slider 5th wheel on a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 long bed 8 footer?

asked by: Tony

Expert Reply:

We do have a semi-custom base rail installation kit for your 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 long bed, however, the Reese Semi-Custom Base Rail and Install Kit, # RP30035-023, that you referenced will not fit in your truck. This kit was designed for newer model Ram 1500 trucks.

Instead, you will want to install the Reese Semi-Custom Base Rail and Install Kit, # RP30035-023, if your truck has overload springs, or # RP30035-186 if your truck does not have the overload springs. The base rails that are included with these kits are the industry standard rails and will work with your Husky Fifth Wheel Slider Hitch.

I have attached the installation instructions for these two kits for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H

Tony

12/31/2012

Is Firestone airbag consider overload spring? I have airbag on both sides - rear axle.

Patrick B.

1/2/2013

If you are referring to Fifth Wheel hitch fits regarding overload springs, those are different. A truck with Overload springs has an extra leaf/leaves in the springs for heavy loads. Airbags are not overload springs as they engage before an overload spring would. However, fitting Fifth Wheel hitches to trucks with airbags can be problematic. Air bag kits like those from Firestone or Air Lift often use the same mounting holes that fifth wheel mount kits would use. It would be best to check the instructions of the fifth wheel kit you are looking at to see if they interfere with the air bag mounting locations. You can also submit a question to our Experts from a fifth wheel product page and they can help you determine if the kit will fit.