Recommended Hitch and Tie Downs for a 2005 Dodge Ram 3500 Long Bed Dually

Updated 10/22/2025 | Published 09/17/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V Commercial Duty - 2-1/2"

(130)

$519.91

Air Lift WirelessONE Compressor System for Air Helper Springs - Remote - Bluetooth - Single Path

(675)

$551.99

Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Ultimate Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(732)

$713.99

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V XD - 2"

(58)

$434.49

TorkLift Tie Downs - Custom Frame Mount - Front and Rear

(888)

$854.19

TorkLift Camper Anchor Relocation Kit

(19)

$420.44

Question:

I have a 2005 dodge 3500 long bed dually diesel 4x4.The bed,hitch,spare tire,and bumper are all off the truck.The factory hitch is no good.I need a class V hitch that will fit where the factory one was installed and be able to put spare tire,bed,and bumper back on.I’m planning on buying a used truck bed slidein camper.What rear air bags and tie downs due you recommend?

asked by: John B

Expert Reply:

Hey John, thanks for the information. To add a class V hitch to your 2005 Dodge Ram 3500 you'll want the Curt item # C15409 for a 2" receiver or item # C15809 for a 2-1/2" receiver. This hitch fits all models of the 2005 Ram with or without the factory hitch.

For air bags, I recommend the Air Lift LoadLifter 7500 XL Ultimate Air Helper Springs item # AL57595. These air bags have a massive 7,500 lbs capacity that will keep the rear end of your Ram level when you are hauling your in bed camper. All mounting brackets and hardware are included for installation.

I also recommend adding the Air Lift WirelessONE Compressor System item # AL25980 to your truck. This onboard compressor will allow you to adjust the PSI in your air bags from your phone.

Since your Ram 3500 is a long bed with an aftermarket hitch, you'll need the TorkLift Tie Downs - Custom Frame Mount - Front and Rear item # TL98NR. These tie downs bolt directly to your frame and the side of one of the Curt Hitches I recommended.

Please note that if the distance between the front bumper of your camper and the center of the rear anchor point on it is less than 90" you'll also need the TorkLift Camper Anchor Relocation Kit item # TLA7004.

I linked a few installation videos below and all of the available instructions for these parts. I recommend taking a look at them.

What model in bed camper are you looking at getting? You can add this information and any other questions you have where it says Reply to Jerred H and I'll be happy to answer them.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Curt Hitch
(click to enlarge)

Jerred H.

10/22/2025

Hey John, how did the setup with the Curt hitch and Air Lift air bags work out on your Ram 3500? I'm curious if the tie downs lined up well with your camper. Your update could make it easier for the next person planning a similar setup.