Tailgate Clearance Concerns w/ The B&W Companion on a 2019 Ford F-450 Super Duty

Question:

Will the companion 20000 or 25000 lb. Fithwheel hitch with factory installed puck system when installed with hitch positioned furthest from cab have enough clearance between fithwheel camper and lowered tailgate? I have a 2019 Ford f-450 long bed.

asked by: David R

Expert Reply:

Once your 5th wheel is hooked up you should have no problem with clearance when you close your tailgate depending on the height of your trailer's coupler. The head of the B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch for Ford Super Duty Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 25,000 lbs item # BWRVK3305 sits 16-3/4 - 18-3/4 Inch Tall. It looks the bed of your 2019 Ford F-450 is just over 21" tall. You should have no issues closing your tail gate with either the 20,000 lbs B&W Companion item # BWRVK3300 or the 25,000 lbs B&W Companion. There are 3 different height settings and then two settings for where the trailer king pin will sit in regards to the length of your truck bed. I have attached a diagram.

I could not highly recommend the B&W Companion more. This hitch is made in America and B&W is the standard for 5th wheel hitches in the industry. I have linked a couple of installation and review videos for you to take a look at.

The B&W Companion weighs over 150 lbs. If that's not something you're interested in moving by yourself and don't want to have to rely on someone to help you then I recommend purchasing the B&W 5th Wheel Lifting Device for Companion and Patriot Hitches item # BWRVXA3130. This heavy duty steel tool lets you lift your B&W 5th-wheel hitch from your truck bed with a hoist. The 5th-Wheel jaws clamp around the device for a secure grip.

Don't forget your lube plate. The Lube Plate for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 10" Diameter item # RP83002 will prevent scratches on your fifth-wheel's skid plate and ease trailer hookup.