Recommended Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch for 2016 Ram 1500

Updated 09/14/2016 | Published 09/13/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 13,000 lbs

(711)

$2145.00

Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Hitches

(5)

$421.55

Demco 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with 7-Pole Plug - 10' Long

(71)

$106.95

Question:

I have a 2016 Ram 1500 with a 5foot 5inch bed. Can I use a Reese 15,000 pro series sliding 5th wheel hitch on my truck?

asked by: Mike S

Expert Reply:

In your 5-1/2-foot short bed 2016 Ram 1500 you cannot use your Pro Series slider hitch because it will not provide enough turning clearance for your 5th wheel. You can use the hitch in the truck (always keeping it in its forward locked position) only if you install a replacement pin box on the trailer called a Sidewinder. A Sidewinder moves the trailer's pivot point 22-inches to the rear, which provides more clearance for preventing contact between the trailer overhang and the truck cab. The linked article details how to check to see if a Sidewinder is available as a replacement for your specific in box.

If you want to avoid replacing the trailer pin box there is one slider hitch from Demco that provides enough turning clearance for your short bed. The Demco Hijacker Autoslide hitch # DM8550040 and its base rail kit # DM8552030-71 provide 22-1/2-inches of additional turning clearance, and best of all you do not need to get out of the truck every time you need to make tight maneuvers since the hitch slides automatically. Please see the linked review video for more on the Hijacker.

If you need a 5th wheel wiring harness for the Ram you can use part # DM8555002 which pluigs in right at your existing 7-way.

expert reply by: Adam R