Does Tailgate of 2017 Ford F-350 Get Removed When Towing Fifth Wheel Trailer

Updated 09/16/2020 | Published 09/14/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Stromberg Carlson 4000 Series 5th Wheel Louvered Tailgate with Lock for Ford Trucks

(898)

$473.77

B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w Slider for Ford Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20K

(5035)

$1699.00

Question:

Im in the process of purchasing a 5th wheel trailer. Tow vehicle is a 2017 F-350 super crew with 69 box. Will I be able to leave the tailgate on and up after hooking up the 5th wheel? I cant think of any reason why not, unless there is not enough clearance while attaching the RV with the gate down. Thanks.

asked by: Greg C

Helpful Expert Reply:

When hooking up to a fifth wheel trailer with your 2017 Ford F-350 you'll need to open the tailgate when backing up to the trailer and then once connected you'd be able to fold the tailgate back up without issue. This is the standard procedure for fifth wheel and gooseneck hitch towing. Fifth wheel tailgates like the part # VG-15-4000 that fits your truck allow you to keep the tailgate up at all times which makes the process a little more streamlined but you would lose the rear camera function as this does not support that.

Looks like you have the OEM rail kit in your truck so for a hitch I would recommend the B and W Companion part # BWRVK3370 which is a slider hitch. You'll need the slider function for turning clearance. The Companion hitches are commonly considered to be the best fifth wheel hitches available as they are easy to use, well-built here in the USA, and are quiet.

expert reply by: Jameson C