Installing a 5th Wheel - need advice
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Joined: Apr 2010
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Installing a 5th Wheel - need advice
I am a first time RV'er and purchased a new 2010 Diesel F350 Dually - Crew Cab and 8' bed. It has the integrated brake controller so that part is done.
I would prefer to install my own hitch and was wondering if anyone could recommend a unit that fits without having to drill the frame.
I will be pulling 17,500 lbs and would also like to get your thoughts on a good unit to use. It seems every dealer thinks the unit he sells is the best - LOL.
Price is not a huge issue as I want something that is very safe, and easy to use.
Thanks,
Don
I would prefer to install my own hitch and was wondering if anyone could recommend a unit that fits without having to drill the frame.
I will be pulling 17,500 lbs and would also like to get your thoughts on a good unit to use. It seems every dealer thinks the unit he sells is the best - LOL.
Price is not a huge issue as I want something that is very safe, and easy to use.
Thanks,
Don
FTE Legend
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 65,938
Likes: 1,432
From: Millersville, MD
Guess you didn't know FTE has an RV forum....go here: Towing, Trailers & 5th Wheels - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
I believe no matter WHAT 5th wheel hitch you buy, you are going to be bolting or welding it into/onto the frame at some point to safely tow the trailer. They are ALL safe, go with whatever on you want..... if $ is no object, the Hensley is really nice! Trailer Hitches – Air Ride Trailer Hitch & Fifth Wheel Hitch
I believe no matter WHAT 5th wheel hitch you buy, you are going to be bolting or welding it into/onto the frame at some point to safely tow the trailer. They are ALL safe, go with whatever on you want..... if $ is no object, the Hensley is really nice! Trailer Hitches – Air Ride Trailer Hitch & Fifth Wheel Hitch
Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
I installed a Reese 16K in my 06 F350 this summer. I was able to order custom brackets that used the existing holes in the frame. I only had to drill holes through the floor of the box. Took me about 40 minutes to install the hitch and I was taking my time. Very easy.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 7,404
Likes: 52
From: Wheatland, Mo
I have the B&W Turnover ball for the gooseneck trailers, but also got a B&W Companion. Basically it is the 5th wheel hitch that drops into the gooseneck hitch in the bed. When not in use you have the full bed to use with no brackets in the way. And this also lets you pull gooseneck or 5th wheel. Completely bolt on. About 30 minutes to install.
Turn Over Ball
Companion
Turn Over Ball
Companion
Cargo Master
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 2,243
Likes: 79
From: Roman Forest, TX
With the weight of that 5er, I would personally want a hitch shop to install it. But that's just me.
As for the type of hitch, as was noted above, they're all pretty good these days. I have Curt 20K slider (don't need the slider anymore, but had it for my other truck...a short bed). I have not had any issues with it, and it is very simple to operate. Works great!
As for the type of hitch, as was noted above, they're all pretty good these days. I have Curt 20K slider (don't need the slider anymore, but had it for my other truck...a short bed). I have not had any issues with it, and it is very simple to operate. Works great!
Lead Driver
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 7,404
Likes: 52
From: Wheatland, Mo
Normally I would agree with you. But I took mine to a buddy who works at a trailer shop and does these installs. We installed it in his garage but he had the knowledge and the air tools. But he did make me cut my own hole in the bed. That was scary.
Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
I had a summer job at a hitch shop when I was going to collage. I installed 30-40 Reese fifth wheel hitches while I was working there. The only hard or scary part is drilling the first hole in a brand new truck box. Installing a hitch fairly easy. Just take your time, measure twice, and drill once. 
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Postmaster
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 2,564
Likes: 11
From: Wayyy NoCal, USA
Hensley's marketing strategy is to make the absolute BEST stuff and price it fairly. You really can't go wrong with them.
As far as shop or DIY... When it comes to stuff that affects the safety of my family, I will ONLY let people I know and completely trust do the work. There are so, so many incompetent hacks out there.
I fulfill both requirements!
As far as shop or DIY... When it comes to stuff that affects the safety of my family, I will ONLY let people I know and completely trust do the work. There are so, so many incompetent hacks out there.
I fulfill both requirements!
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I have the B&W Turnover ball for the gooseneck trailers, but also got a B&W Companion. Basically it is the 5th wheel hitch that drops into the gooseneck hitch in the bed. When not in use you have the full bed to use with no brackets in the way. And this also lets you pull gooseneck or 5th wheel. Completely bolt on. About 30 minutes to install.
Turn Over Ball
Companion
Turn Over Ball
Companion
This is the setup my dad went with in his F450. He absolutely loves it and has had no issues with it whatsoever, other than the relocation bracket for the exhaust drops it a bit low (so a minor bend of the pipe may be necessary). He pulls a 17k camper with it with no problem.
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