Automatic Sliding Fifth Wheel Hitch Recommendation for 2012 Ram 1500 5.5 ft Bed
Updated 08/31/2020 | Published 08/27/2020
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Question:
I have a 2012 ram 1500 4x4 laramie longhorn short box 57 and want to install a sliding 5th wheel hitch for a 24 ft light 5th wheel trailer. Where exactly in relation to the axle should the hitch pin be located and what type of hitch would you recommend?
asked by: Bill
Expert Reply:
When towing a fifth wheel trailer you want to have the king pin of the trailer/fifth wheel hitch jaws centered right above the rear axle. Since your 2012 Ram 1500 has a 5-1/2 foot bed there's only one automatic sliding hitch that would have the needed clearance to allow you to make tight turns and that's the Demco Hijacker # DM8550040 as it slides 22-1/2 inches whereas other hitches only slide about half that.
To install it in your truck you'd just need the rail kit part # DM8552030-71 and you'd be set.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 13,000 lbs
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Sliding 5th Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 3250 lbs Vertical Load
- 13000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Premium - Single-Hook Jaw
- 15-1/4 - 18 Inch Tall
- 22-1/2 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- Demco
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