Does the Heat Shield Get Reinstalled Using the B&W Turnoverball on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500

Published 03/10/2019

Question:

Does the heat shield get thrown away on installation of the BandW on the 2017 Silverado with the short bed?

asked by: Brad H

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, the heat shield on your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 while installing the B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch w/ Custom Installation Kit part # BWGNRK1016 will need to be removed and then discarded. The heat shield is not a critical component so you should not have any issues leaving it off whatsoever. It basically stops any heat from getting transferred to your bed floor and causing any discoloration but this is now replaced with a very thick piece of metal so the hitch will actually act as a heat shield as well. There is no way to install a gooseneck hitch without removing the heat shield due to where it attaches.

If you take a look at the 9:30 mark in the attached video you will see the heat shield removal process. I have attached a photo of the install instructions that state the above as well.

expert reply by: Conner L