5th wheel prep group?

[dward]

What is included with the 5th wheel prep group? Do the holes in the bed affect the install of a non Dodge 5th wheel hitch?
Does Dodge offer a decent hitch or is it better to go after market?
It seems most trucks I'm considering have this option, would I be better off not getting it if I wanted to go after market?

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

Depends in part on the weight of the fifth wheel trailer. My 3500 is rated to tow 17k and I like the B&W gooseneck and Companion 3500 for it instead of the factory setup. If you have a dually, 4.10, Aisin and plan to tow heavy, the Companion 3600 uses the factory mounts to the frame--the 4 in the corners so to speak. I don't care for the picture frame type adapter for the factory setup--too many parts to get out of alignment, get loose, etc. That is just my preference, because obviously it works. If my truck had come with the factory package, I would probably have changed out the gooseneck casting for the B&W gooseneck. The only other issue is that the old design 75 gallon Transfer Flow tank (they are working on a new one to clear the factory hitch stuff in the short bed) has its rear feet right where the front factory frame mounts go. I had bed floor there because I do not have the factory package on my short bed Ram.

 

[dward]

Thanks Joe,
Are there after marker hitches that will drop into the factory holes and leave a clean floor when removed?
I don"t need a goosekneck but liked the companion because it left a clean floor to carry a slide in camper.
I'm still back and forth on the 3500 Aisin and a 2500 for a smoother ride as a daily driver.
It seems the only advantage of the 2500 is that with the coil springs, it would be a much smoother ride.
I plan to stop by Caldwell Wed or Thur and will have to drive them both. I just don't want to get the 3500 and have a rough rider.

 

[dward]

I just checked B&W website and saw the drop in hitch for the Ram, very nice.
Do they or will they make a slider for a shortbed, or will it be needed?

 

[mpaulson]

You mentioned slide in camper, that may be a bad mix with the coil sprung 2500 for load handling and stability. With the prep package you get he 7 pin plug in the box which is good for the slide in as well. As already mentioned, B&W has a hitch now the will drop into the OEM four corner mounts nicely with no other parts required. B&W is the best hitch in my opinion even though I don't have a reason to have one, yet.

 

[dward]

If I went with a 2500 I would stick to a small lightweight camper if I were to get one.
More than likely, it will be more of a DD and to tow my 21' Toyhauler.
If I decide I will go with a larger 5th wheel or carry a heavier camper, I'll spring for the 3500.

 

[tony1461571]

dward Pullrite make one that I've ordered also Reese makes one both are on back order. They are selling like hot cakes. ISR Series Super Glide 18K Part #: 2900 OE Series Ram Industry Standard Adapter Part #: 4439. And depending on your kingpin on your 5er which capture plate you'll need.They also make 24k the #2300. Cost around $1700 for the setup I'm getting.

 

[Wingate]

I just checked B&W website and saw the drop in hitch for the Ram, very nice.
Do they or will they make a slider for a shortbed, or will it be needed?

There is a thread started back over a year ago about the B&W Slider for SB trucks. I would read it before considering one.
https://www.turbodieselregister.com/threads/242160-B-W-Companion-SLIDER-Hitch
Heres the Thread.

 

[jsffd]

I just installed the B and W companion and it works great. I have a 2014 2500 with the coils. This is my 3rd 5th wheel hitch and the B and W quality is much much better. I have a short bed and did not buy the slider. I placed iin the rear holes, the pin hole is just behind the axle centerline and with my moderately extended pin box, have 2 inches of clearance at full 90 degree turn.
So far the coils are great. Less sag than my old 2003 2500, approximately 1-1/2 inches. 10k trailer. And only one hole in my bed!!!! Could not be happier, with the truck and hitch.....

 

[jsffd]

Full turn. Also bed rail height is adjustable....

 

[tony1461571]

Can you post pics with the hitch alone in the bed to see its location and fitment in the bed.

 

[jsffd]

. This is the only one I have so far.

 

[tony1461571]

Thanks pics are always a help I do have a Pullrite Super Glide on the way that I'm going to put in the truck. I will put pics on of it and the Ram rail kit that mounts in the pucks. So others can see how it mounts up.