Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch and Rails for a 2022 Ram 3500 w/ Ramboxes

Question:

I have a new 22 Ram 3500 with ramboxes and a 6 1/2 bed. It is not prepped for 5th wheel. I knew it would be more expensive to configure to tow, but the vehicle is worth it. What do I need to purchase to tow?

asked by: Don A

Expert Reply:

Congrats on the new truck! Towing a 5th wheel trailer with your Ram 3500 will be difficult because of the tight bed space with the Ramboxes but it is possible. You will need a 5th wheel hitch, a set of industry standard rails, and a sidewinder pin box. A sliding hitch will not work.

For the base rails you will want the Curt Custom Fifth Wheel Installation Kit item # C16430-204. This rail kit is custom fit and installs in predrilled holes in your Ram's frame. This kit has shorter rails which will work perfect with your Ramboxes. I have linked a picture below.

The best 5th wheel hitch for your truck is going to be the Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch item # RP30928. This 5th wheel hitch has a 20,000 lbs capacity and is compatible with sidewinder pin boxes. It has a single-piece jaw for a more secure jaw-to-king-pin connection which will minimize jarring and chucking.

I have linked a couple of pictures below that will show you the set up I recommended on a Ram truck with Ramboxes to give you better idea of what the final product will look like.

To recommend the correct pin box I will need you to send me a picture of the sticker on your 5th wheel trailers pin box. It will have a serial number, LCI number, and RPO number. With these I can identify which pin box your trailer has.

The best option is to go with a Sidewinder like item # RP77FR that will move the pivot point of the trailer back 22". This will provide enough clearance so that when the trailer turns it will not interfere with the bed sides.

To make towing with a 5th wheel easier I recommend adding the Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector - 10' Long item # C56000. This harness puts a 7-way connector in the bed of your truck and allows you to keep the one on your bumper. This makes hooking up to your 5th wheel trailer easier and more convenient.