Will 5th Wheel Hitch for 2017 Ram 2500 Prep Package 8 foot Bed Work with 6-1/2 foot Bed

Question:

Is the mounting different for short box then the 8 foot box? The 16 curt hitch and the 20 curt says 8 foot only the only one is the 25 curt with factory prep fits the 6.5 box. Is the hitch back Further? I dont understand they look the same, my fifth wheel is a 2018 Coachmen chaparal with turn technology. These are all stationary hitch I am looking at. Thank you for your Time!

asked by: Ivan J

Expert Reply:

The footprint for the factory prep package on the 2017 Ram with a 6-1/2 foot or 8 foot bed is the same. The reason why we have the sliding 5th wheel hitches listed for the short bed version is because with a standard pin box (which most people have) you will want to use a sliding version to avoid hitting your cab with your trailer. The 8 foot bed doesn't have the same clearance issues hence the stationary 5th wheel hitch options.

I believe that the pin box you are talking about is the Turning Point pin box from Lippert which moves the pivot point of your trailer back 22 inches to the rotating turret. If this is the case then you will want to go with the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Ram Towing Prep Package - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs # C16515-16021. This fits right into the OEM prep package on your 2017 RAM 2500. You'll also need to use Sidewinder Wedge # C16991 to keep the king pin from rotating inside the hitch.

Keep in mind that you will want to have some cushion in your towing weight capacity. For a 5th wheel application we recommend about a 2,000 lb cushion if possible. If the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your 2018 Coachmen Chaparral is closer to 16K then I recommend looking at the Curt A20 # C16044 instead which is rated for 20,000 lbs.

I have attached some review videos for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jon G