Fifth Wheel Hitch Installation on 2002 Chevy Silverado with 6 Foot Bed

Updated 05/18/2010 | Published 05/16/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Universal Base Rails and Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 10 Bolt

(349)

$239.07

Reese Square Tube Slider for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - 10" Travel

(36)

$347.36

Reese Universal Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches (No Base Rails) - 10 Bolt

(50)

$119.64

Reese Quick-Install Custom Bracket Kit for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches

(38)

$266.42

Reese Quick-Install Custom Installation Kit w/ Base Rails for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches

(119)

$427.16

Replacement Hardware Kit for Fifth Wheel Base Rails - 10 Bolt

(64)

$44.16

Question:

I have just purchased a used 5th wheel camper with a Pro Series 15000 hitch by Reese, Part NO. 30056 Manufactured 05-09-02. How and where do I mount the rails in my truck box, the camper is a Jayco Jay Flight Quest. I will install the hitch in a 2002 Chevy Silverado Extended cab pickup with a six foot box.

asked by: Brent R

Expert Reply:

You do not mention if you have the installation kit to fasten the bed rails to the truck frame or if you already have the rails. If your Chevy is a 1500 or 2500 Series, we offer Custom vehicle specific mounting kits that include the bed rails and frame brackets, part # RP50064-58. This kit will make the installation much simpler than using the universal mounting kit. If you already have the bed mounting rails, use part # RP50064, which is the frame brackets only. You would also need part # RP58430, a hardware kit to attach rails to the brackets. I will provide a link below to the installation instructions which includes a diagram showing the correct placement of the rails in the bed. The diagram can be found on page 4.

We also offer a universal installation kit, part # RP30035 includes both the hardware and the bed rails. If you have the bed rails and only need the hardware, you would need part # RP30439. The instructions for rail placement are located on page 4 of the instructions linked below.

If you are installing a fifth wheel hitch on a truck with a bed shorter than 8 feet, you will either need a slider, part # RP30048 or a Sidewinder replacement pin box to provide clearance between the trailer loft and the rear of the truck cab. Failure to do so will cause damage to the truck and/or trailer because of insufficient clearance between the vehicle and the trailer.

I will provide links below to the products I have recommended as well as instructions for the install kits. I will also link you to more information about the Sidewinder Replacement Pin Box.