Comparing B&W Companion VS Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5TH Wheel Hitches For 2017 Ford F-250 6-1/2' Bed  

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I recommend the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # DM8550022 for your 2017 Ford F-250 with the 6-1/2' Bed. With having the Autoslide you will be able to maneuver your trailer in tighter spaces by being able to make a jackknife turn. Since it does not require you to unlock the hitch like many manual sliders to achieve this you will be able to make quicker turns in tight parking lots while on your trips. The Underbed Rail and Installation Kit # DM8551009 will allow you to keep a clean truck bed when you do not need the hitch.

A Demco Hijacker UMS Series Gooseneck Trailer Hitch # DM5988 will work with the underbed rail kit in the event you need to also gooseneck tow.

The B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider # BWRVK3400-5W will also allow you to make jackknife turns but you must get out to unlock the hitch and slide it into the maneuvering position. You must also return it to the towing position by getting out to unlock the hitch again and reposition. If you went with a fixed hitch like the B&W Companion # BWRVK3500-5W you would not have the clearance needed to make a jackknife turn and you also risk damage to your cab and trailer if you accidently went past the limited turning of the hitch. Since the center hitch point on your F-250 is only about 40" from the cab, with an 8' wide trailer you would have about 4" wanting of your trailer wanting to occupy your cab in a jackknife turn. The Custom Underbed Installation Kit # BWGNRK1116-5W would be required for either of the B&W 5th wheel hitches.

Don't forget the Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness # 41157 to add a 7-way connector in the bed of your F-250. This will protect the wiring and connectors from damage that occurs when the cord is stretched over the tailgate down to the bumper connection.

expert reply by: Bud M

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