Fifth Wheel Hitch and In-Bed 7-Way for Long Bed GMC Truck with Rails

Updated 12/30/2024 | Published 12/25/2024

Question:

I have a 1997 GMC 2500 with an 8ft bed, it has a fifth wheel connection in the bed, I would like to add a hitch and a 7 pole connection what products would you recommend. It has factory hitch or wiring near the rear bumper.

asked by: Steve K

Expert Reply:

Hey Steve, it sounds like you have a set of fifth wheel rails in the bed of your truck already and are just looking for a hitch to fit into them as well as a 7-way kit that puts the 7-way up in the bed. Check out the attached picture to see what the rails you have SHOULD look like.

For a hitch you could then use the Reese 16k part # RP30047 since you have a long bed and do not need additional clearance to make tight turns.

Then for a 7-way you would want the part # 41157 to give you one up in the bed like you need and you'd be set.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Installed Rails
(click to enlarge)

Steve K.

12/26/2024

I didn't explain my situation very well, I have a 7 pole connection in the bed, I need one by the rear bumper and I also need a receiver hitch. Can Just move the 7 pole from the bed to the rear bumper area? I probably won't use the fifth wheel hitch.

Jameson C.

12/27/2024

@SteveK Oh gotcha. I see what you mean now. Yes you can move the 7-way that is in your truck bed to the rear of the vehicle. You might get underneath the rear bumper and see a round connector for a 7-way like part # HM40950. For a hitch you could then use the part # C14081.

Steve K.

12/28/2024

@JamesonC thanks for the info I'll be ordering soon.