Options for Fixed or Slide Type 5th Wheel Hitch on 2022 Ram 2500 with Short Bed and OEM Rail Kit

Question:

I have ordered a 2022 Ram 2500 with the shorter 6'-6" bed. It will have the factory 5th Wheel / Gooseneck Towing Prep Package. I suppose I need to have a slide type hitch for my 5th Wheel?

asked by: Mike L

Expert Reply:

Not necessarily, it of course is heavily dependent on the particular RV you are towing too. Some newer 5th Wheels will provide enough clearance for use with a shorter bed truck and some have a tapered nose that due to design will aid in clearing the cab without need for a slide hitch. You also have the option of using a rotating turret type pin box with a fixed type hitch.

To determine if a sliding 5th wheel hitch is needed for your truck, there is a simple equation you can use; the distance from the cab to the center of the 5th wheel hitch head or gooseneck ball hole (Y) minus half the width of the trailer (X).

Y - X = Z, the amount of trailer clearance.

This is true for short-beds and long-beds, regardless of truck bed length and you will want a value that clears the cab plus an additional 4" for safety and angle approach.

For a fixed hitch option, I suggest the B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch for Ram Towing Prep Package, # BWRVK3600.

For a slide type, I suggest the B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider for Ram Towing Prep Package, # BWRVK3670.

If you measure and determine there is not enough clearance for a fixed hitch, let us know what pin box you have and we can make recommendation of rotating turret type pin boxes. If you still prefer a fixed hitch option opposed to a slide type.

Please note the linked product review videos below.