Parts Needed to Install a Reese 16K Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch on a 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 with 6ft Bed  

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Expert Reply:

The additional parts that you will need will depend on what parts you plan on reusing. It is common to reuse the base rails, however Reese does not recommend reusing the frame brackets or hardware. After years of use, the bolts and frame brackets will wear and flex. Using new hardware will ensure a secure connection.

For your 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab, Reese offers custom and semi-custom frame brackets, so you have a few different options. If you would like to reuse your base rails, then you can buy the brackets and hardware by themselves. If you go with the custom frame brackets, you can use part # RP50140. The benefit of custom brackets is that they do not require any frame drilling to install.

For semi-custom frame brackets, you will first need the universal frame brackets, # RP30439. If your truck has the factory overload springs, then you will also need the Reese Mounting Brackets, # RP58186. If your truck does not have the factory overload springs, then you will need the Reese Mounting Bracket, # RP58023. This bracket installs on the passenger side of the truck only.

None of these brackets include the hardware to attach the base rails to the brackets, so you will also want to pick up the Replacement Hardware Kit for Fifth Wheel Base Rails, # RP58430.

The custom and semi-custom brackets are available as kits with the base rails if you would like new base rails as well. For a custom kit, you can use part # RP50140-58. For a semi-custom kit, you can use part # RP30035-186, if you have overload springs or part # RP30035-023 if you do not have overload springs. You would not need to purchase the replacement hardware separately if you purchase the full installation kits.

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

expert reply by: John H

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