Installing Reese M5 5th Wheel Hitch on a 2019 Ram 3500 Short Bed without OEM Prep Pkg with Ram boxes

Question:

I have a 2019 longhorn edition Ram 3500 single wheel with Ram boxes, no fifth wheel package off course because of the Ram boxes and Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle Item # AL57531. It is my understanding that I can install a Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Single Jaw - 20,000 lbs Item # RP30928 in my truck, Correct? My question is: If I can install Reese RP30928 in my truck, Which rails do I need to order that will fit my truck and the Reese RP30928?

asked by: Marcos A

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, # RP30928 can be installed on your 2019 Ram 3500 Short Bed without OEM Prep Pkg with the Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Air Helper Springs, # AL57531 installed on the rear axle. You will want to use the Reese Quick-Install Custom Outboard Installation Kit, # RP56010-53. Please note the installation video linked below. This installation with outboard design and extended-length base rails allow for mounting farther out from truck frame. This not only makes for an easier install of base rails but also avoids interference with your Air Lift components.

Because you have a Ram Box and the short bed, you will need to use a Sidewinder pin box. The Sidewinders are pin box specific so you will need to identify current pin box to select the correct replacement. Ramboxes make towing a fifth wheel trailer more difficult since they narrow the distance between the bed rails but with a Sidewinder pin box installed you can make it happen.

I attached a help article below that covers the Sidewinder Pin Box along with the installation videos.

expert reply by: Michael R