5th Wheel Hitch Install Kit & Sidewinder Pin Box for 5th Wheel Towing with Short Bed 2014 Ram 1500

Question

Question:

I have a 2014 Ram 1500 with a 5foot 7inch bed, can i put my would hitch in it or do I need something else? My Current hitch is a rbw lil rocker 15k, I tried it in a friends Reese bed rails and it fit, my rails are the same dimensions as his rails too, the only difference i could see was two less hole on top of the rail, but all the same bolt holes. So I was looking at Reese Quick-Install Custom Bracket Kit Item # RP50142 for installing my rails. I looked at other hitches to see whats out there and I am getting confused by all the options and would like some help on making a decision, I would like to be-able to use my current hitch if possible, but am open to suggestions. I am also looking at air bags for the suspension and was wondering if AirLift 1000 Item # AL60818 will be right for me

asked by: Chad S

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Expert Reply:

We can help you with a 5th wheel install kit for your 2014 Ram 1500 short-bed pickup. While it is true that 5th wheel base rails are standardized we have seen issues when folks try to combine rails from one kit with frame brackets from another, so I suggest you get a whole new install kit. Reese custom install kit # RP50142-58 will give you the easiest time by eliminating much of the drilling required with universal kits. This kit will accept your RBW hitch that is made for industry-standard base rails.

5th wheel towing with a short-bed truck like your 2014 Ram 1500 will require a Sidewinder pivoting pin box that gives you more turning clearance. Slider hitches work for longer beds but for your 5-1/2-foot bed you will need to install a Sidewinder replacement pin box on the trailer. Sidewinders are selected based on the OEM pin box on the trailer. You will need to note its brand and part number from the sticker that is (usually) on its left side. Once you know your pin box you can check in the linked article for availability of a Sidewinder which will bolt right up in its place using the existing hardware. For instance, if you have a Lippert 1621 pin box you can use 16K Sidewinder # RP34FR which will give you a full 22-inches of additional turning clearance, more than almost all slider hitches.

For a compatible Air Lift air bag kit you can use # AL60818 that you referenced, which fits both 2WD and 4WD versions of your Ram. An install video is linked for you.

expert reply by: Adam R

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