Choosing 5th Wheel Install Kit and Air Bag Kit for 2006 Ford F-350 Super Duty Long Bed
Updated 04/01/2016 | Published 03/30/2016
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Question:
I will be purchasing the Curt C16245 Q24 5th wheel hitch. Ill be installing into a 2006 F350 SuperDuty 8foot bed that has never had a 5th wheel installed. Is there a difference between the universal rails Part 16100 or the custom kit C16448-204? Is the custom kit stronger/better? The reason I ask is that I will also be installing Airlift bags and depending on the type of mount/rails, it will determine which Airlift bags I have to get. Thank you for your help.
asked by: Lloyd C
Expert Reply:
The difference between a universal-fit 5th wheel install kit and a custom-fit kit is that the custom kit will reduce your overall installation time and the amount of drilling required. They eliminate altogether the need for frame drilling and they naturally cost more for this reason.
Neither offers an absolute advantage in terms of strength but with custom kits the larger brackets tend to mean more metal-to-metal contact with the truck's frame. If you take a look at universal install kit # RP30035 and custom install kit # RP50082-58 (or Curt custom kit # C16448-204) you'll see what I mean. I always recommend the custom kits because saving a few hours on a 5th wheel install makes most folks happy enough for them to justify the mild cost increase.
If you intend to install air bag kit # F2400 from Firestone then you'll have no issue with the hitch interfering with the air bag installation. All air bag kits for your truck's various versions are shown on the linked page. As you review kits, keep in mind fits vary for 2WD and 4WD versions. We note for each kit if it will affect 5th wheel installation.
For a 5th wheel wiring harness you can use part # PK11893-11932. This is a t-harness that simply plugs in at your bumper-mounted 7-way.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Q24 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 24,000 lbs
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 6000 lbs Vertical Load
- 24000 lbs GTW
- Cushioned 360-Degree
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 13 - 17 Inch Tall
- CURT
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