What is the Difference Between an Under-Bed and Above-Bed 5th Wheel Base Rail Kit 2018 Ford F-350

Question:

Looking for a Demco 21k 5th wheel autoslide hitch. Going to order a 2018 F-350 Diesel 4x2 6.5foot bed, no factory 5er kit on 4x2 available. Im finding a lot of different brackets for under the bed mounting to the frame. Are these kits hard to install? What do I need to get this hitch to work in this type of tow vehicle ? Thanks

asked by: Joseph F

Helpful Expert Reply:

In order to install the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Slider part # DM8550035 for above-bed base rail kits or part # DM8550037 for below-bed base rail kits on your 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty you will need a set of 5th wheel base rails. We currently have two different sets of base rail kits for your truck; under-bed and above-bed.

The above-bed base rail kit like the Demco Hijacker Premier Series Above-Bed Base Rails and Custom Installation Kit for 5th Wheel Hitches part # DM8552031-71 will be much easier to install in regards to an under-bed base rail kit like the Underbed Rail and Installation Kit for Demco Hijacker UMS 5th Wheel and Gooseneck Trailer Hitches part # DM8551009. However, although the above-bed base rail kit will be easier to install, you sacrifice more bed space in comparison to using an under-bed base rail kit.

I recommend taking a look at the under-bed base rail kit as you will only have to install it once and you will not regret doing so. The added bed space far outweighs the difficulty of installation in my option.

expert reply by: Conner L