Where Should Fifth Wheel King Pin Sit in Relation to Axle Centerline on 2004 Ford F250

Updated 07/12/2013 | Published 07/11/2013

Question:

I have just had a 16000 pound Reese hitch installed in a 04 ford f250 quad cab with universal rails that connects with the 4 pins and cotter pins. The dealer that put this in told me that it would be centered over the axels. When I picked it up it is 2 1/4 inches forward from center. I am now worries about the fitment of the 5th wheel. If I bought a slider would the slider mount to the rails that have already been installed in my truck? Your help would be greatly appreciated!

asked by: Ryan W

Expert Reply:

The exact placement of the hitch will depend on which installation kit is used. Generally speaking, fifth wheel hitches are installed so that the king pin will fall either directly over the rear axle centerline or within a few inches forward of that point.

According to Reese, if their universal install kit, part # RP30035 is used, the hitch should be installed so that the king pin sits approximately .4 inches forward of the rear axle centerline. If the custom install kit # RP50082-58 is used, the hitch would be installed so that the king pin is centered 2-15/16 inches forward of the rear axle centerline.

I have provided a diagram showing these dimensions for both of the kits mentioned above.

I would recommend having the shop that installed the hitch review the installation instructions they used to ensure the hitch was installed correctly. If the hitch has been installed correctly, and you have the 8 foot bed on the truck, you should not need a sliding hitch. If you have the 6-1/2 inch bed, using a sliding hitch is recommended. If you use a Reese slider, it would indeed be compatible with your bed rails as long as they are Reese, Draw-Tite, Curt, Husky or Valley.

expert reply by: Mike L