Forum Discussion

hyattjlbb's avatar
hyattjlbb
Explorer
Jan 21, 2019

5th Prep Package ??'s (GM)

Upgrading the 2015 Chevy 3500 HD, SRW to a 2019. One of the options of course being the 5th wheel prep or puck system I think it is called? Currently have the two rails and my Reese hitch. If I do the prep on the new TV I will either have to get the Curt hitch that fits the pattern or apparently I can buy adapters for my current hitch.


Thoughts on which way I should go?

I like the idea of a drop in hitch with no adapters but is the Curt hitch that GM sells as an accessory to the truck just as good? TIA!
  • 4bearhug's avatar
    4bearhug
    Explorer
    Jan 21, 2019
    hyattjlbb wrote:
    Upgrading the 2015 Chevy 3500 HD, SRW to a 2019. One of the options of course being the 5th wheel prep or puck system I think it is called? Currently have the two rails and my Reese hitch. If I do the prep on the new TV I will either have to get the Curt hitch that fits the pattern or apparently I can buy adapters for my current hitch.


    Thoughts on which way I should go?



    I like the idea of a drop in hitch with no adapters but is the Curt hitch that GM sells as an accessory to the truck just as good? TIA!


    A drop in set up is definitely a nice way to go if you like to have a clean bed when not towing. Not sure how much that pkg will cost you from the factory, but you can do the same set up for a different hitch after you get the truck. I did that on my 2015 3500 with a B & W companion hitch. I had a Reese with rails before my current set up and the difference is night and day. I can't comment on the Curt hitch, but the B & W is a nice hitch.
  • Durb's avatar
    Durb
    Explorer
    Jan 21, 2019
    You can use your current hitch if you Get a Demco prep adapter, be aware they have separate part numbers for 6 1/2 foot beds and 8 ft. beds.

    If you are thinking about buying a new hitch, go all out and buy a Trailer Saver BD5 which will fit your pucks directly. Might as well protect that new truck!
  • Cummins12V98's avatar
    Cummins12V98
    Explorer III
    Jan 22, 2019
    New truck step up and buy the Best standard hitch. B&W USMade, Curt Made in China. They are known to cause Chucking with the heads pivot point several inches below kingpin connection.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Jan 22, 2019
    Don't spend money on an adapter. Buy the B&W for OEM GM puck system. They are a solid HD hitch, but actually not heavy, when the two pieces are separated. Roughly 75 lbs each piece (head/base).

    By selling current hitch, and not buying an adapter, you've already payed for a good share of the B&W.

    Jerry
  • Lantley's avatar
    Lantley
    Nomad
    Jan 22, 2019
    I just purchased a 2019 Silverado Dually. I had rails in my prior 2007 dually. I was able to by a adapter for my Hensley BD3 and no longer have rails.
    I believe adapters are now available for most trucks/hitches. Rails are a thing of the past.
  • lee_worsdell's avatar
    lee_worsdell
    Explorer
    Jan 22, 2019
    Have have rails in my 17 3500 gm , no patience to wait for a different truck to come in with the puck system. I wish I had of. I now throw a chunk of plywood over top for the winter so I can load things a little better.
  • jaycocamprs's avatar
    jaycocamprs
    Explorer
    Jan 23, 2019
    Get the factory pucks, also includes factory 7-way in bed and bed liner. Then get a B & W!
  • pcm1959's avatar
    pcm1959
    Explorer
    Jan 23, 2019
    Factory puck. Do your trailer and yourself a favor and get a Trailer Saver BD5. It will drop right into the puck system. Very robust hitch and certainly better forthe pin box area of your trailer.

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