Does Weight of Fifth Wheel Hitch Count as Payload in 2019 Ram 2500 with OEM Rail Kit

Updated 08/05/2020 | Published 08/04/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 18,000 lbs

(711)

$1795.00

Demco 5th Wheel Rail Adapter for Ram OEM 5th Wheel Towing Prep Package - 25,000 lbs

(179)

$689.00

Question:

I just purchased a 2019 Ram 3/4-ton 6.5foot box with OEM 5th wheel prep package with a rated cargo capacity of 3380 lbs. I am looking at purchasing a Jayco 317RLOK 5th wheel that lists the dry hitch weight at 2110 lbs GVWR 12995 lbs. I like the Demco 18,000 lb auto slide with base for OEM pucks but am concerned about using up a lot of my cargo capacity with the hitch when loaded with 400 lbs+ for driver and passenger, full fuel tank, etc. Should I be looking for a lighter weight hitch? And if so what would you recommend? Thanks,

asked by: Dan N

Expert Reply:

There is a difference in the payload capacity of a truck and the pin weight it can handle as the payload is basically the amount of weight the bed can support whereas the pin weight is different since the hitch attaches to the rails and is not supported by the bed. So because of that you are totally safe based on the capacities of your truck.

The Demco Hijacker part # DM8550034 with the Ram rail kit adapter part # DM6099 is a great choice for your 2019 Ram 2500 short bed with the OEM rail kit and would work well for you.

expert reply by: Jameson C