Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer with a 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel with Flatbed

Updated 08/13/2015 | Published 08/12/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Safety Chains for Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter

(126)

$124.73

Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter w/8" Offset for Short-Bed Trucks

(229)

$731.79

Question:

Ok to start I already own a brand new travel trailer but its not big enough to live full time for work so Im contemplating a fifth wheel. Now to the problem I own a 2004 dodge ram 2500 diesel thats lifted 6in on 37in tires. I know for a fact the standard bed will not work so Im thinking if I scrap the bed and get a flatbed with recessed gooseneck it would give me more clearance on the fifthwheel without doing a rinky dink lift to the fifthwheel. If you guys can give me any insight on this so I can decide on what I can do option wise that would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for any help you can offer.

asked by: Eric A

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would not go with a gooseneck hitch if you want to tow a 5th wheel trailer because then you would need an adapter and it just adds more cost and components to the set up. The flat bed is a good idea, you just need a hitch that can be installed on the flat bed.

For that the Reese low-profile hitch # RP30054 is the best option. It does require a custom installation but since you will be having the bed replaced any way it would not take much to perform the installation. I have included a link to the instructions for this hitch which explains what will be needed for installation.

If you select a flatbed that comes with a gooseneck hitch and want to use an adapter then we have options for that as well. Since the ball will be recessed in the bed you would need to use an adapter that attaches to the 5th wheel trailer. And since flatbeds are longer than regular truck beds you will need one with an offset. I recommend the Ranch Hitch # AM3139.

The Ranch Hitch has an 8 inch offset and is rated for 24,000 pounds gross trailer weight and 6,000 pounds pin weight. I also recommend adding the safety chains, # AM3109, sold separately. I have linked a video review of the Ranch Hitch for you.

expert reply by: Michael H