Difference Between Above Bed and Under Bed Base Rail Kits for 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty

Published 02/12/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Ford Super Duty Prep Package - 18K

(734)

$1965.00

Question:

I just got a 2020 Ford F-350 and it doesn't have the oem pucks in the bed. I'm needing to tow a fifth wheel so I'm looking to add a hitch and base rail kit. My question is that I'm seeing there are above bed options and below bed options. What would the difference be and is there any advantage to either option?

asked by: Isaiah

Expert Reply:

Congrats on the new 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty purchase! I'd be more than happy to help you figure out which base rail kit option is best for your lifestyle.

The first difference between above bed and under bed kits lies in the name. Above bed kits, like the Curt # C16428-204, have rails that sit inside your bed while below bed kits are more hidden with the rails sitting below your bed. The advantage of above bed kits is solely with the cost. These are more traditional and basic so they are more cost-effective. I personally recommend going with a below bed kit because it looks more clean, and when you aren't towing you have a completely clear bed for hauling cargo.

Then for an underbed kit I recommend the Reese Kit # RP87FR. This system has 4 points of contact which means you can use an auto sliding hitch or a pin box with a rotating turret if your F-350 has the short bed.

For the 5th wheel hitch I recommend the Demco Hijacker # DM8550024 for a short bed because it automatically slides which makes for a better towing experience, or the Reese M5 # RP30922 for a long bed because it was designed around the puck system and it has an impressive weight rating of 27,000 lbs.

I have attached some videos and installation instructions for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G