5th Wheel Towing with 2014 Dodge Ram 3500 HD 8-ft Bed That Has 20-Inch Wheels

Question:

Looking at the above truck which has 20 inch wheels instead of the 18 inch. What hitch would you recommend. Truck has factory prep package for hitch in the bed! Is there a problem with the bed being to high? 5er we are looking at is solitude 320x by grand design!

asked by: Randy F

Expert Reply:

A truck that is lifted above standard height - either by a suspension lift kit or by use of larger diameter wheels - will make 5th wheel towing more difficult. This height increase reduces clearance between the 5th wheel overhang and the truck's bed rails and/or tailgate.

The linked diagram shows you the recommended minimum clearances between a truck and trailer. I checked the Grand Design website's specs for the pin height of the 320X but this information is not provided. You will want to find out the pin height for this 5th wheel, measure the truck you are considering and compare to the diagram to see if you will have sufficient clearance. You may be able to adjust the height of your pin box on the trailer. Check the mounting position to see if there is room to raise it.

The 320X has a GVWR of 15,000-lbs so a hitch rated for 16K or higher is called for. The link provided will show you 16K and 20K hitches suitable for your Ram truck with the factory 5th wheel prep package. Standard hitches like the Reese # RP30928 that are intended for standard above-bed base rails will require an adapter # RP30154, but we also offer hitches from Curt that fit directly into the prep package. Part # C16520-16021 is a 16K hitch and part # C16530-16021 is rated for 20K. Both of these offer a lowest height setting of 13-inches, lower than most other hitches.

expert reply by: Adam R