Do I Have to Drill Holes in the 5AB-E1621-16K Skid Plate to Install a Demco Autoslide Locking Plate?

Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 12/18/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Demco Autoslide Locking Plate for Extended 5th Airborne Pin Boxes

(1)

$163.84

Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider - Single Jaw - Ford Super Duty Prep Package - 18K

(711)

$1965.00

Question:

I am considering buying the Demco 8550024 Sliding Hitch for my 2026 F350 Short Bed. I have a 10 year old 5th Airborne hitch 5AB-E1621-16K and its skid plate is 20 inches long so I assume the DM6062 is the correct capture plate. My question is that there are no pre-drilled holes currently in the back of the skid plate for attaching the capture plate. Is this normal? Thank You!

asked by: Marshall L

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, it is normal Marshall. After looking at the older pictures we have of the 5th Airborne hitch 5AB-E1621-16K, you can see that some of them have the pre-drilled holes and some of them don't. The Demco Autoslide Locking Plate for Extended 5th Airborne Pin Boxes item # DM6062 attaches with two 3/8” bolts and nuts so you'll need to drill some holes into your skid plate.

The Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider item # DM8550024, you referenced fits the Ford factory puck system. The Demco Autoslide Locking Plate item # DM6062 is exactly what you need for the Airborne pin box 5AB-E1621-16K.

If you have any additional questions, go ahead and click on the box that says Reply to Jerred H and I'll be happy to answer them.

expert reply by: Jerred H

5AB-E1621-16K
(click to enlarge)

Marshall L.

12/18/2025

That was SO helpful, thank you Jerred H! Can I still use my nylon lube plate with this new Capture Plate? Thank You! Marshall L

Jerred H.

12/22/2025

@MarshallL You're welcome! You sure can. I recommend the Curt 10" Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Lube Plate item # 16721. This will prevent scratches on your Demco Autoslide Locking Plate item # DM6062 and make hooking up a bit easier.