Recommended Fifth Wheel Hitch For A 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Thunder Road Edition
Updated 06/21/2023 | Published 06/20/2023
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Im looking at a fifth wheel trailer but have a Ram1500 Thunder Road with the 5.7 hemi. I know the truck is light duty and I see the gross weight and hitch weight are near the limit of truck capabilities. The trailer is 8200 gross with 1200 hitch weight 1. Is this even a good idea with my current truck 2. If doable what slider hitch would you recommend? I’d appreciate any feedback you have to offer. Thanks
asked by: Steve O
Expert Reply:
When it comes to capacities it's best to only use 80-85% of the total capacity to avoid any potential damage. If you're getting to close to the limit there's going to be more wear and tear on your truck's suspension and engine/transmission. There are components you can add in to help the truck's performance but you won't be able to add capacity.
A transmission cooler like the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets # D13504 can be installed to help protect and improve performance of your transmission. SumoSprings like the Solo Custom Helper Springs # SSR-306-47 can help pad your suspension and reduce sag.
As for the hitch, I recommend the B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider # BWRVK3400-5W. Depending on your whether or not you have a Mega Cab or not will determine the correct rail system for your Ram. If you do not have a Mega Cab then you'll wan the Custom Underbed Installation Kit for B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches # BWGNRK1316-5W. If you do have the Mega Cab then you'll want part # BWGNRK1308-5W instead.
B&W is known for being American made and top tier in quality so you'll have one of the best hitches on the market. The underbed rail kit will give you a completely clear bed when not in use and can also be used to tow gooseneck trailers with the included ball so that you can do both without needing an adapter.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider - Dual Jaw - 18,000 lbs
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Sliding 5th Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4500 lbs Vertical Load
- 18000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 17 - 19 Inch Tall
- 12 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- B and W
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: Options for Towing A Fifth Wheel With A 2022 F-350 Short Bed With OEM Puck System
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Article: Ram Trailer Tow Prep Package
- Q&A: Do I Need a Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch for a 2026 Ford F-350 w/a 6-3/4' Bed?
- Q&A: Recommended Sliding 5th Wheel HItch & Rails For 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty
- Q&A: Does The B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch BWRVK3270 Fit All Above Bed Rails?
- Q&A: Is the Gen-Y 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Pinbox Bad for the Trailer Frame
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Article: Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Information and Installation Tips
- Article: How to Measure for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Steps
- Article: Sidewinder with Rotating Turret for Short Bed Pickups
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)