Comparing B&W Companion vs. Curt A20 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch For 2021 Ram 3500 With OEM Puck System

Updated 02/18/2021 | Published 02/16/2021

Products Featured in This Question

B&W 5th Wheel Lifting Device for Companion and Patriot Hitches

(399)

$38.00

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

(5271)

$1699.00

Adapter Rails for Curt 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider - Ram Towing Prep Package

(180)

$396.54

Question:

I was looking to compare the B&W and Curt 20K slider for the Ram puck system. I found the BandW complete system, but not the Curt complete system. What is the part # or how do I find it on your site. Thanks

asked by: Tony E

Expert Reply:

So for your 2021 Ram 3500 short bed with the factory puck system, the Curt 5th wheel hitches require an adapter, and for your truck, the correct parts are the following:

- Curt A20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with R20 Slider # C16541

- Adapter Rails for Curt 5th Wheel Hitch with Slider - Ram Towing Prep Package # C16022

The B&W Companion slider, on the other hand, does not need any type of adapter and will mount directly in the puck system; the correct one for your 2021 Ram 3500 is the following:

- B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch with Slider for Ram Towing Prep Package # BWRVK3670

You have made really great choices, as these are two of my favorite 5th wheel hitches, and easily two of the best. Between the two though, I highly recommend the Companion. The biggest difference between the Companion and the A20 (and every other 5th wheel hitch, for that matter), is the Companion's jaw system. The jaws on the Companion are a full 1 inch thick and are why the Companion minimizes the chucking, jarring and noise that can occur when towing, ensuring you have the most comfortable towing experience possible The size of the jaws, as well as the fact that B&W's tolerances are +/- .002 inch, are what makes such a huge difference.

The A20 has a very nice dual-jaw system as well, but it doesn't provide the adhesive-like quality the jaws on the Companion do. The only advantage the A20 has really is that it will be easier to remove from your truck, as the head unit can be removed, followed by the base and the adapter. The Companion would be more difficult to remove, and though it can be removed in two pieces, those are still heavy but can be made easier with a hoist and the B&W 5th Wheel Lifting Device # BWRVXA3130.

Overall, you really can't go wrong with either hitch, but if you want the best, most comfortable towing experience, I definitely recommend the B&W Companion # BWRVK3670.