5th Wheel Rail Kit Recommendation for a 2019 Ram 1500 with a 5-1/2' Bed
Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/30/2024
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Question:
Hi, I have a 2019 Ram 1500 5.7 litre petrol crew cab with the 5 1/2 ft bed and the hitch I have to fit this vehicle is a Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Square Tube Slider - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs Part Number: RP30051. Can you please tell me which mounting/ installation kit I require please. Kind regards
asked by: Paul L
Expert Reply:
Hey Paul, thanks for reaching out!
The rail kit I recommend picking up for your 2019 Ram 1500 is the Curt Custom # C16307-204.
Since your Ram has the 5-1/2' bed you'll either need to have a pin box on your 5th wheel trailer that uses a rotating pin box (like a Sidewinder) and you'll keep your Reese # RP30051 hitch in the "tow" position, or you'll need to swap out your Reese hitch for the Demco Hijacker Autoslide # DM8550040 because it offers a greater amount of travel at 22-1/2" front to back.
Your standard sliding hitch you have right now won't give you enough clearance which is why you'll need to switch to a different solution to account for the shorter bed on your truck.
I like to also recommend picking up a wiring kit like the Hopkins # 41157 because it gives you a 7-Way socket in the bed of your truck for an easier connection for your trailer.
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Robin H.
12/22/2025
Hey Paul, how did things work out with the Curt rail kit and the clearance on your Ram’s short bed? Your experience could point others in the right direction when choosing between the Sidewinder setup and the Demco Autoslide.