Recommended Fifth Wheel Hitch and Air Helper Springs for 2012 Ford F250 Diesel
Question:
2012 Ford F250 Diesel w/ 8 foot bed. Looking for fifth wheel hitch and air helpers. Fifth wheel weighs about 15.5K, although I might upgrade later. Im not too worried about the cost, just want a good smooth ride.
asked by: Mark K
Expert Reply:
Let's begin with the air helper springs. Firestone offers the Ride Rite Air Helper Spring system, part # F2597. This system is compatible with Diesel engine equipped trucks and will not interfere with fifth wheel frame brackets. If you'd like to be able to adjust the air pressure in the springs with an onboard compressor without needing to leave the cab, you might be interested in the Firestone Level Command, part # F2097. I've linked you to install videos for both the springs and the compressor kit.
For a hitch, I'd recommend the Curt Q20, part # C16130. The hitch has plenty of capacity to spare in case you go with a heavier fifth wheel in the future. The hitch jaws will hold the king pin very securely, leading to a smooth ride with a minimum of chucking. You'll also need an install kit, part # RP50026-58. If you don't already have a 7-way installed in your truck bed for the fifth wheel, you can install one using part # 41157. I've also linked you to install videos for the wiring and the fifth wheel install kit.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with 7-Pole Plug
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Wiring
- 10 Feet Long
- Custom Fit
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Firestone Air Command Heavy Duty Air Compressor - Analog - Single Path
- Air Suspension Compressor Kit
- Wired Control
- Single Path
- Analog Display
- 150 psi
- Firestone
more information >
Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs - Double Convoluted - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Air Springs
- Heavy Duty
- Firestone
more information >
Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit w/ Base Rails for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches
- Fifth Wheel Installation Kit
- Custom
- Above the Bed
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Q20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 5000 lbs Vertical Load
- 20000 lbs GTW
- Cushioned 360-Degree
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 13 - 17 Inch Tall
- CURT
more information >
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