ADDING 5TH WHEEL PREP PACKAGE AFTER THE FACT

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Mar 11, 2024 | 09:01 AM

Jeremiah Soltis

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4wd Low

Joined: Aug 2019

Posts: 10

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From: Tampa, Florida

ADDING 5TH WHEEL PREP PACKAGE AFTER THE FACT

Anyone have the FORD factory 5th wheel prep package after getting their truck? How did it go? Any pointers?

2024 FORD F-250 TREMOR 6.7L HO LARIAT ULTIMATE

Mar 11, 2024 | 09:10 AM

nickshu

Tuned

Joined: Mar 2021

Posts: 332

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From: Northern Colorado, USA

Mar 11, 2024 | 10:03 AM

longhaultransport

Laughing Gas

Joined: Mar 2008

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Pulling the bumper is only 6 bolts, makes it much easier to miss the back of the cab.

Mar 11, 2024 | 10:35 AM

bpounds

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Joined: Aug 2006

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From: Whittier, CA

I was told that the 2023/24 5th wheel crossmember was different than previous years. Something about a notch to clear something. All hearsay, so could be wrong, but make sure you can find the proper kit for a '24 before committing.

Mar 11, 2024 | 10:36 AM

4wd6.7L

Lead Driver

Joined: Dec 2020

Posts: 8,641

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There are some good videos showing the entire process, all on previous gens but it should be the same. Most remove the bed, although I've read that some have been able to complete the install just by spacing the bed a few inches above the frame. With something like 4x4 blocks.

Mar 11, 2024 | 11:07 AM

speakerfritz

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Joined: Jul 2013

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there are two different ford 5th wheel prep packages

1 kit includes 2 angle stock about 12" long that is an additional support

the other kit doesnt have the additional support stock

so...if your truck has the welded support..you wont need the lit that includes the bolt on....if you dont have the welded support...you must get the kit with the bolt on extra support pieces.

Mar 11, 2024 | 11:21 AM

Scott357

Cross-Country

Joined: May 2023

Posts: 79

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I don't know the process, but have you considered another brand. I thought about installing one on my 2019, but ended up not needing one. At the time I was going to go with the B&W because it was easier to install and seemed to have good reviews. Don't have to remove the bed.

Mar 12, 2024 | 12:38 PM

DaveZX

Tuned

Joined: Dec 2019

Posts: 250

Likes: 36

From: Fredericksburg VA

5th wheel

Recommend that you watch payload. Your payload numbers are probably under 2,500. Even a small to medium-size 5er could push your limits.

Mar 12, 2024 | 03:09 PM

#10

rufushusky

Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2011

Posts: 2,679

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From: Walpole, MA

I installed the B&W gooseneck in my F250, a lift would have certainly made my life easier but it isn't too bad. Worst part the anxiety about punching a 4" hole in the bed, once you get by that it isn't too bad. Sits under my truck mat you would never know its there.

Here is the kit for 2023-2024

https://www.bwtrailerhitches.com/kits/gnrk1123

Mar 12, 2024 | 05:34 PM

#11

bpounds

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Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 17,400

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From: Whittier, CA

Looks like the kits break like this:

2017-2022 is kit LC3Z5F057A MSRP $830
2023-2024 is kit PC3Z5F057A MSRP $1130

According to the Ford accessories site they both come with the frame brackets. You may or may not already have those welded to your frame. I can't explain why the new one is $300 higher cost, but I am pretty sure they don't interchange. Also, they need your VIN when you order.

I looked into this stuff before I ordered my truck, and in the end decided I wanted it factory installed even if it meant some delay in delivery. It is one of the reasons I did not buy a truck from dealer stock.

Mar 12, 2024 | 09:39 PM

#12

arniet

Mountain Pass

Joined: Jul 2014

Posts: 140

Likes: 49

From: Eastern Panhandle of WV

For the work involved, are you sure you need the flat bed? I like the rails, mainly because they give me a for sure tie down in the bed when I haul heavy stuff in the bed. I have an aux GASOLINE tank in the bed, and I do not want junk making holes in it. The dinky little tie downs in the bed just cannot do the job. Food for thought, it depends on your use of the truck, if I haul dirt, gravel or sand I use a trailer.

Mar 13, 2024 | 08:26 AM

#13

Spccraig9

5th Wheeling

Joined: Dec 2023

Posts: 33

Likes: 4

Yes, picked up a 24 F350 late December. Did not have the fifth wheel prep. $600 option when ordering? $1,100 to buy and then $500-$800 to install after the fact.
Won't make that mistake again.

Mar 13, 2024 | 10:21 AM

#14

longhaultransport

Laughing Gas

Joined: Mar 2008

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Or, buy from upfitter companies or junk yards for $500 or less and install it yourself.

Mar 13, 2024 | 11:08 AM

#15

bpounds

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Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 17,400

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From: Whittier, CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by arniet

It's a good point. I have rails in my current truck, and it never really bothered me. If I really need to lay sheet goods flat, a couple of 2x4 laid fore and aft worked fine. But when it comes to the new truck, rails clamped against an aluminum bed did not sound like something I wanted. Same issue with using the B&W companion where the fiver hitch locks onto the goose ball. There have been dented beds using the companion. I think they probably have the issues worked out. I chose not to do that.