Hi!


I noticed a nice look F250 Lariat at a local lot and decided to take a closer look. The truck appeared to be in great cosmetic condition but I got a bit apprehensive when I noticed a hitch in the bed. Obviously this F250 was used to pull a big trailer but is there anything in particular I should be concerned about (or double check)? Does this affect their value? Can the hitch be removed relatively easy and , if so, just covered with a bedliner? The lot owner assured me there was nothing to worry about.

Sorry if these are stupid questions - <O</OI’ve never had a truck with a 5<SUP>th</SUP> wheel hitch and was hoping someone can enlighten me as to the pros and cons. I’m sure I’m never going to have a use for it so I want to be sure I know what I’m getting into (if anything)..
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Thanks for the help!

 

A fifth wheel hitch is a really easy install--I assume(***-u-me) it will be easy to pull out---never removed one---I would be happy to find a truck that used a 5th wheel instead of the rear tow package---seems to me it is a better balance, and would cause less stress overall on the vehicle.... If you remove it--I would put carriage bolts into all the holes in the bed--maybe a little seam sealer around them to slow the rust down--If you put a liner in -water will find its way into those holes and leave a lot of moisture--RUST

just my 2 cents--

Gary

 

If it is a standard fiver hitch, removing it should be straight forward. I would look at it this way. If everything else looks good, there is no reason to assume the previous owner did not tow in the same manner he maintained his truck. If the truck is beat out, I would assume the owner towed in the same manner he used his truck - rough!

A good many folks purchase pick-ups precisely because of their ability to tow, but that does not mean it has been abused and it may not even have done much towing. There are many ways to fill the holes and I think you will find rust is not a major factor. Just my thoughts,

Steve