Installation Dimensions of Universal 5th Wheel Base Rail Kit in 2005 Ford F-350 with 8-Ft Bed

Question:

I recently purchased a 2005 F350 which had rails mounted for a Fifth Wheel hitch. It looks like it may have been a universal rail. The angles brackets are still under the truck on the frame. What are the spacing dimensions of the bolts on the universal rail? I.e. width left to right in the bed, distance on one side, on one rail between bolts on a rail, distance between rails. Thanks.

asked by: Shane C

Expert Reply:

A universal 5th wheel base rail kit like the Reese # RP30035 will be positioned slightly differently depending on the vehicle into which it is to be installed. If you refer to the linked instructions you'll see on page 12 the installation details for your 2005 Ford F-350.

The rear base rail will be positioned so that it's rear edge is 32-1/2-inches forward of the rear edge of the truck bed (not the tailgate). The rail holes to be used will be determined at the time of the install based on the location of brake cable hangers and overload springs. The front rail is then positioned based on the rear rail's location.

A much easier option is to use a custom install kit. Such kits, like the Reese # RP50082-58, require no drilling into the frame since they include custom under-bed brackets that use existing holes in the frame. Custom kits save you many hours of installation time. This kit also includes the industry standard bed rails that will accept most hitches made by Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley and Husky.

The linked video illustrates an installation of this kit in your same model year F-350.

expert reply by: Adam R