How do I Convert My Demco Highjacker to the Ranch Hand # AM3139 Gooseneck on My 2012 Ford F-150?

Updated 01/03/2022 | Published 12/30/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Spyder Gooseneck Trailer Hitch for Fifth Wheel Rails, 25,000 lbs GTW

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$291.59

Slide Hammer for Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter

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$82.24

Safety Chains for Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter

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$124.73

Ranch Hitch Universal 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter w/8" Offset for Short-Bed Trucks

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$731.79

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 13,000 lbs

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Question:

I have a 2012 Ford F150 and currently use a Demco Highjacker autoslide DM8550040 that is above bed mounted Demco Rails DM6071. While this works GREAT!, I want to be able to remove the autoslide during the winter months. With the weight of this, it is almost impossible for me to remove it myself. I was wondering if I could replace this setup with a Ranch Hitch with the 8”offset using the same rails. I realize that the ball may need to be a bit farther back but with my airbags, that may not be a problem. What would I need to attached to the rails and the part number if this can be done for the Ranch Hitch AM3139? I can send an attached drawing if that helps and let me know if this is possible

asked by: Russell N

Expert Reply:

What you first need to do is remove your Hijacker # DM8550040 from the Demco adapter rails. The next thing you need is a gooseneck hitch that is compatible with industry-standard fifth wheel rails. I recommend the Curt Spyder Gooseneck Trailer Hitch # 16085.

Once the gooseneck hitch is installed, you are ready for the Ranch Hand # AM3139. It is important to note that the Ranch Hand requires the slide hammer/gear puller # AM3103 to install. The slide hammer is used to pull the threaded collar over the split collar halves that surround the king pin on the trailer. The adapter base of the Ranch Hitch fifth-wheel-to-gooseneck adapter then screws on to the threaded collar.

Also, since gooseneck hitches require safety chains, I recommend the Safety Chains for Ranch Hitch 5th-Wheel-to-Gooseneck Coupler Adapter # AM3109. Not only does it come with the chain, but it also comes with mounting brackets and the hooks/latches.