Towing a Fifth Wheel Trailer With 5-1/2 Foot Bed and Rambox

Published 12/13/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Sidewinder 5th Wheel King Pin with Rotating Turret - 20,000 lbs

(43)

$1350.54

Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(715)

$184.22

Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Single Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(465)

$1033.24

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

(24)

$398.47

Question:

thank you for the help I was told I need air bags to ensure the truck sat level what are your thoughts.

asked by: Tim

Helpful Expert Reply:

You will be able to tow a fifth wheel with your 2014 Ram 1500 LongHorn that has a Rambox but it will require the use of a fifth wheel trailer with a Sidewinder king pin. If the fifth wheel trailer you purchased does not already have a Sidewinder you will need to purchase one to replace what is on the fifth wheel. Sidewinders are designed to replace specific king pins; for example # RP34FR is designed to replace Fabex 663 and 665, Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD, as well as M&M 663 and 665 pin boxes. There is also a formula you can use to ensure you'll have enough space between your cab and trailer to make a 90 degree turn:

(A + B) - C = Clearance

A = Distance from center of fifth wheel hitch jaw to truck cab
B = Length of Sidewinder arm (16K = 22", 19K = 22")
C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (to get half)

I've attached a link to a help article on Sidewinders for you to take a look at as well as a link to our page with our selection of Sidewinders for you.

Along with a Sidewinder you'll need a fifth wheel hitch with custom install rails. I recommend the Reese # RP30928 because of its 9 inch funnel which makes it easier to guide the king pin into the hitch. The rails you'd need are the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails # RP50142-58. I have attached links to video reviews of the fifth wheel and rails for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Tim

12/13/2017

You will be able to tow a fifth wheel with your 2014 Ram 1500 LongHorn that has a Rambox but it will require the use of a fifth wheel trailer with a Sidewinder king pin. If the fifth wheel trailer you purchased does not already have a Sidewinder you will need to purchase one to replace what is on the fifth wheel. Sidewinders are designed to replace specific king pins; for example # RP61421 is designed to replace Fabex 663 and 665, Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD, as well as M&M 663 and 665 pin boxes. There is also a formula you can use to ensure you'll have enough space between your cab and trailer to make a 90 degree turn: (A + B) - C = Clearance A = Distance from center of fifth wheel hitch jaw to truck cab B = Length of Sidewinder arm (16K = 22", 19K = 22") C = Width of trailer divided by 2 (to get half) I've attached a link to a help article on Sidewinders for you to take a look at as well as a link to our page with our selection of Sidewinders for you. Along with a Sidewinder you'll need a fifth wheel hitch with custom install rails. I recommend the Reese # RP30928 because of its 9 inch funnel which makes it easier to guide the king pin into the hitch. The rails you'd need are the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails # RP50142-58. I have attached links to video reviews of the fifth wheel and rails for you to take a look at.

Kyle S.

12/13/2017

I'm sure whoever gave you that advice had good intentions but neither a sliding hitch or B&W Companion will be an option for you. A sliding hitch will not allow enough clearance due to your short bed, which is why you must use a Sidewinder, and a B&W Companion (slider or not) is not compatible with a Sidewinder. Your only option is going to be a Sidewinder and fixed hitch with certain custom bed rails.

Tim

12/13/2017

thank you for the help I was told I need air bags to ensure the truck sat level what are your thoughts.

Kyle S.

12/13/2017

Air springs can certainly be helpful to keep a truck level if it is under a heavy load and may be needed. If you do find yourself with the need I highly recommend the Firestone Coil-Rite # F4185. These are confirmed to fit your 2014 Ram 1500 and give you air pressure which is adjustable between 5 psi and 70 psi on either spring.