Recommended 5th Wheel Hitch for 2018 Ram 2500 without OEM Prep Package and 6-1/2 Foot Bed

Updated 08/22/2020 | Published 08/20/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Custom Underbed Installation Kit for B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches

(20)

$599.00

B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(5033)

$1599.00

Curt Custom Fifth Wheel Installation Kit for Ram Truck - Carbide Finish

(224)

$296.64

Question:

I have a 2018 Ram 2500 HD Truck with no fifth wheel prep kit installed that was manufactured in Canada. Which fifth wheel hitch will fit my truck? I have the short bed and want a sliding hitch.

asked by: David J

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are a lot of great options available for your 2018 Ram 2500, but I recommend using the B&W # BWRVK3400-5W and the underbed mounting kit # BWGNRK1384-5W, which has a 20,000-lbs capacity. The # BWRVK3400-5W is a sliding hitch that will install into a gooseneck hitch # BWGNRK1384-5W to give you a truck bed that is free of rails, so it will allow you to freely use your truck bed when the hitch is not being used. B&W make some of the most reliable and high quality hitches on the market, and they're made in the USA. This is the perfect solution if you're towing a trailer weighing less than 20000-lbs.

If you're looking for something with a bit higher capacity, the Curt Q24 # C16546 you were looking at is a great choice as well because of the head's spherical axial bearing that allows easy pivoting of the hitch head; this translates to a smoother towing experience with an easier hookup. This hitch does install an above bed rail kit # C16427-204, and the custom underbed brackets will install without drilling to offer you an easier installation than a universal bracket kit.

I've linked some review and installation videos of these two hitches for you to have a look at, as well.