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What 5th Wheel Hitch Should I get for My 2025 F-350 with OEM Prep Package Towing 37' 5th Wheel?  

Updated 05/06/2026 | Published 05/01/2026

Question:

hello - Im looking at a sliding 5th wheel hitch to pull my trailer which is 37 long and has a GVWR of 14k lbs - I was originally looking at the bandw companion hitch but then I came across the bandw patriot which looks to be enough for my needs so without seeing them in person Im just curious what you might recommend between the two. Also what is the weight of each hitch? Thank you, Branden

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Expert Reply:

Hello Branden,

Great question. I recommend going with the B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w Slider for Ford Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 20K # BWRVK3370 because it will go right into your puck system. The Patriot does not have that option, so you’d be looking at adding rails or using an adapter, which kind of defeats the purpose of having the factory prep package.

Even though your trailer is a 14k GVWR and within the Patriot’s range, I would still go with the Companion. It is rated higher than what you need, but B&W builds these hitches for life and the overall quality is hard to beat. You’ll get a tighter connection and a smoother ride, and it gives you some room if you ever decide to move up to a heavier fifth wheel later on.

The Companion slider is rated for 20,000 pounds with a 5,000 pound pin weight capacity, and it gives you 12 inches of travel for turning clearance, which is important with a shorter bed. It is a heavier hitch at about 260 to 270 pounds, but it breaks down into smaller pieces so it’s a lot more manageable to handle.

Since it is a heavier setup, I’d also suggest the B&W 5th Wheel Lifting Device for Companion and Patriot Hitches # BWRVXA3130. It makes getting the hitch in and out of the bed much easier and saves your back.

At the end of the day, the Patriot is a good hitch, but for your setup and having the puck system already in place, the Companion is the better long-term choice. It’s one of those buy it once and be done situations.

Is this your first 5th wheel, or first camper all together? Where do you plan on taking it for your first trip?

expert reply by:
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Kate F
B&W Lifting Device
B&W Lifting Device
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Matt profile picture

Matt

5/5/2026

Hi Branden, I purchased the patriot 5th wheel hitch about a year ago, for my 2025 F250 6 3/4ft bed. I do not have the Ford prep-package, so not sure if you do or not. I pull my Jayco 5th wheel (32ft) with it and it does great. My dad and I installed it, without any issues. Very solid hitch. The hitch is heavy, so I would recommend 2 people to lift it in and out of the truck. I normally just leave mine in, with a cover over my bed. Hope this helps! Matt

Kate F. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Kate F.

5/6/2026

@Matt Thanks for the response Matt! Yes, they are definitely heavy, but built to last. If you ever find yourself needing to remove it on your own, the # BWRVXA3130 is a great gadget if you have something you can hoist it out with.

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