Removing a Fifth-Wheel Hitch When Not in Use

Updated 10/13/2026 | Published 10/10/2026

Question:

Hello, If I purchase and have you install a 5th wheel hitch, can it be something I can remove from the bed when it is not being used? I have a 2017 Ram 2500 Laramie with the 6ft bed. It is a crew cab 6.4liter 4x4. Thank you in advance

asked by: Troy H

Expert Reply:

Hey Troy.

Yes, there are many different styles of fifth wheel hitches that make it easy or hard to remove once installed. For most fifth wheel hitches the rails stay installed in the truck bed at all times, however you're able to remove the hitch itself when not in use. This also depends on whether or not you have the factory puck system installed in your truck which would just leave the mounting points in your bed when you remove the hitch.

What hitch are you looking at specifically, and what are you trying to use the bed for when the hitch isn't in use?

expert reply by: Trent G

Troy H.

10/12/2026

I have not even looked at any yet. Figured I’d get your help on deciding. Also. Our truck is lifted 6” above stock. Will this be a problem hooking up a 5th wheel RV? I know barely anything about 5th wheel hitches. Hoping you can give me an idea of what I need. The bed will not be used for anything in particular when not pulling an RV. Thank you in advance for your help. TroyHugyez

Trent G.

10/13/2026

@TroyH Well in that case Troy, I'll recommend some hitches to you. You do need to figure out whether or not you have the factory OEM prep package or not. If you do you will have 5 holes cut into the bed, one in the center of 4 making a square. WITH the OEM prep package, I recommend the Demco Recon 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider # DM57YV. This hitch mounts to the OEM prep package and comes with a slider. I definitely recommend going with the slider since you have the shorter bed configuration. The slider will allow the hitch to move away from the cab of your truck during tight turns to keep the trailer at a safe distance. Also, this hitch installs and removes quickly since I know you'd like to use your bed from time to time. It weighs around 230lbs all together however, it breaks down into 3 pieces for easier removal. One more plus is this hitch allows you to raise or lower the height of the connection point to compensate for your lift, which can only be a suspension lift with this hitch. WITHOUT the OEM prep package, I recommend the B&W Companion Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch # BW33QR. This one takes a bit more time to install as you have to bolt in the underbed turnoverball mount. this bolts to existing holes in the trucks frame and allows you to use both the fifth wheel hitch you're looking for, and a gooseneck should you ever need one. This hitch also has a height adjustment function for your lift. However, this hitch only works if you have a suspension lift, it will not work with a body lift. Of course I'm recommending a slider once again, simply the fact that you have the shorter bed. And again, this hitch is one that is easily removed once installed for use of the bed, it weighs roughly 280lbs but breaks down into 2 pieces. This one is harder to remove than the one above due to weight alone. Now, I do want to say that your lift is going to play a factor in getting your fifth wheel trailer level. Both of these hitches provide some room for adjustment but not 6". I recommend picking out your trailer with this in mind.

Helpful Links

5th-wheel-hitch/ram/2500/2017/bw33qr.html?vehicleid=201721565

5th-wheel-hitch/ram/2500/2017/dm57yv.html?vehicleid=20176015544