Can a Fifth Wheel Hitch Be Installed in a Flatbed Truck

Question:

Can this be done?

asked by: Stanley I

Expert Reply:

In order to install a 5th wheel trailer hitch on a flat bed, there are some alternate installation methods that must be followed. It will be a complete custom install that will need to be done by a qualified professional with experience doing these types of installations.

The rails will need to be bolted and welded to a 1/2 inch steel plate. The hardware will need to reach through the rails, the plate above the bed, through the bed, and then through a second 1/2 inch thick steel plate under the bed. This steel plate will need to be welded to the truck frame.

If the hardware is not long enough, you will need to provide your own hardware and it will need to be rated grade 5 or better.

Another option is to use the Reese Low-Profile 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, # RP30054. With this hitch, you would not need rails, but you would still need to use the 2 steel plate method described above. I have included a link to the installation instructions that will give you a good idea of what is involved with installation on a flat bed.

The low profile hitch would be a better option because flatbeds tend to sit higher than standard truck beds.

You will want the jaws of the hitch to be right above or slightly ahead of the rear axle centerline.

expert reply by: Jameson C