Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation For 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 With 6 Foot Bed

Question:

Hello I was just reading one of your articles comparing the q20 to the r16 and in the article you mention that the q20 is not compatable with either the reese revolution or sidewinder 5th wheel hitch I was looking at either the q20 or q16 and ordering a trailer with the reese revolution I have not heard before this article of any issues with the q20 Would the q16 be comptpatable with either 5th wheel hitch I have a 2012 2500 ram with a short box and was looking at the q20 or q 16with slider rails The trailer I was looking at buying is 9995lbs gross max , so any hitch over 10000lbs is over kill but wanted a safety margin and looking at any future 5th wheels we may buy or pull Thanks

asked by: Chris V

Expert Reply:

The Reese Revolution pin box has features like a Sidewinder and as explained in the attached helpful article, cannot be used with a sliding fifth wheel hitch. When executing turns it would have two moving pivot points and could cause damage to the trailer, truck, or both. You can install a sliding fifth wheel hitch if you lock the hitch so that it will not use the sliding feature if your trailer has a Reese Revolution or Sidewinder. For that reason we recommend using a fixed fifth wheel hitch when using either a Revolution or a Sidewinder. The Q series hitch cannot be used with a Sidewinder because of the wider jaw setup on the hitch.

I recommend the Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, part # RP30033. This premium 22,000 lb hitch has dual-jaws. You can take a look at the attached product review video for this hitch.

I also recommend the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, part # RP50140-58. Using this custom kit cuts the installation time in half versus the universal kits. I have attached a link to an installation video for this kit you can check out.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L