Recommended Sliding Hitch and Rail System for a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 w/ a Short Bed

Updated 03/11/2023 | Published 03/10/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Above Bed - 18,000 lbs

(711)

$1795.00

Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector - 7' Long

(87)

$109.95

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Underbed - 18,000 lbs

(711)

$1995.00

Underbed Rail and Installation Kit for Demco UMS 5th Wheel and Gooseneck Trailer Hitches

(7)

$476.50

Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Hitches

(6)

$578.67

Question:

I’m going to be towing with a 2003 Dodge 2500 6’5” bed diesel. I would like your recommendation. I’m looking at the Demco auto slide. What rail install kit would be the strongest? Above bed, or below bed. I would prefer not to drill holes in the frame. But will if it’s a better install. Is the 21K hitch too much over kill for an 11K trailer? I have trusted Etrailer with my projects!

asked by: Carl

Helpful Expert Reply:

The best choice for a rail kit would be the Demco Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit item # DM8552016-71. This is an above bed kit which is what you will have to install to use the 18k Demco Autoslider item # DM8550034 you were looking at.

I strongly recommend this hitch. The Autoslider will give you 14" of travel for extra clearance when turning and backing. This is the most out of any sliding hitch. A 21K 5th wheel hitch is massive overkill for your needs. It would be best to save the money unless you are planning on upgrading trailer's in the future.

If you were to go with the Underbed Rail and Installation Kit for Demco 5th Wheel Hitches item # DM8551005 you would have to drill into your frame. The Custom Installation Kit item # DM8552016-71 mounts in pre-existing holes. If you change your mind and are ok drilling then you will need item # DM8550022. This Autoslider has a different set of mounting legs to go with the underbed system.

To make towing with a 5th wheel easier I recommend adding the Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector - 10' Long item # C56071. This harness puts a 7-way connector in the bed of your truck and allows you to keep the one on your bumper. This makes hooking up to your 5th wheel trailer easier and more convenient.