Do Ford OEM Fifth Wheel Rail Kit Adapters Add Height to Hitches

Updated 08/25/2020 | Published 07/25/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Elite Series Underbed Rail Adapter for Standard 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches - 20,000 lbs

(338)

$410.48

B&W Companion OEM 5th-Wheel Hitch for Ford Super Duty Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(5033)

$1199.00

5th Airborne Custom Wedge for B&W Fifth Wheels

(101)

$77.97

Question:

Ordering a F350 with 6 3/4foot box and considering the factory 5th wheel prep package, but that limits my hitch options to those that fit the puck system. My question is if I use the DM6175 or RP30156 adapter, so I could use any hitch-how much does these adapters raise the hitch? My thought is not ordering the factory prep package if I have to get adapters or buy a more expensive, custom hitch. Also Im considering a standard hitch not slider and using the revolution pin box. Any other suggestions on the most economical system with the least components. Thank you

asked by: Steven L

Expert Reply:

The rail kit adapters like part # RP30156 do raise the hitch up a little bit from the ones that fit the puck system directly but not a significant amount beyond what a standard rail kit would carry the hitch at.

There isn't a great and cheap way to tow a fifth wheel trailer so I would recommend you go with a quality setup. Since you want to go with a Reese Revolution (great choice) I would recommend the OEM rail kit with a fixed hitch since they are lighter and quieter...and cheaper...like the B and W Companion for Ford Rail kits part # BWRVK3300. The correct wedge to use then is the # SWW-06.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Eric I.

8/11/2020

It appears you recommended a fixed fifth wheel hitch for a shortbed. Might want to check your model numbers.

Jon G.

8/25/2020

The Reese Revolution pin box mentioned in both the question and answer has a rotating turret back near where the pin box connects to the 5th wheel trailer. This moves the pivoting point back about 22" and negates the use of a sliding 5th wheel hitch since the sliding feature isn't needed.