Forum Discussion

Hedgehog's avatar
Hedgehog
Explorer
Jan 12, 2020

B&W pivot arm adjustment

So I purchased the B&W RVK3305 for the ford puck system on my 2019 F-450 and wanted advise on the pivot arm placement. I understand the height and bed rail clearance but I have the option of the kingpin 3” in front of the axle or 1” in front of the axle. I was wondering how much difference it would make between the two. I was thinking about doing the 1” in front of the axle to gain 2” of clearance between the front of my fifth wheel and the tailgate when it is open. Where I had my previous slider on my shortbed, having the hitch in the rear position gave me way more room between the tailgate and fifth wheel. Any input is appreciated
  • wvcampers's avatar
    wvcampers
    Explorer
    Jan 17, 2020
    You can change the position by rotating the base of the hitch 180*. There is no need to mess with the bolts on the hitch except for the labels that can be seen. So you can try it both ways without touching a wrench.
  • jaycocamprs's avatar
    jaycocamprs
    Explorer
    Jan 14, 2020
    I run mine set to the rear. I'm not sure what the effect is on the front axle weight, but it does not feel light. With a long bed, double cab truck I doubt that it offsets the weight of the diesel engine.
    With the GM puck mounts reversing the base in the mounts will set the arms either forward or rearward, the Ford looks to be the same. Try it, I doubt it will drive any different which ever way are arms set.
    What you will gain is clearance with the tailgate down, and a little more angle before hitting the overhang with the bed corners.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Jan 12, 2020
    With the long bed, full forward would likely tow best. However, I would be happy with one inch forward, if you would rather have the extra gate to camper space. The arms aren't hard to move, so I'd try it both ways at some point. I doubt you'll notice much difference.

    What you will notice is that hitch!! You will soon be telling others of the reliability and ease of use.

    Jerry
  • Hedgehog's avatar
    Hedgehog
    Explorer
    Jan 12, 2020
    Totally agree, I’m sure either way, going from a gas powered srw 1 ton to a diesel power F-450, my towing experience is gonna be night and day. I could have kept my Reese elite slider from my last truck but I really wanted to go with the b&w
  • Hedgehog's avatar
    Hedgehog
    Explorer
    Jan 12, 2020
    Cummins 12v98, so looking at the b& w instructions for your ram, your hitch is 2” in front of the axle. So that is right in between the two settings I have to choose from. I will put it together tomorrow and see my clearances with the trailer before I torque everything down. I would rather have my kingpin in the 3” forward position but like I said, I’m concerned with tailgate to camper clearance with tailgate down. You can’t always be perfectly straight with your trailer when your hitching up.
  • Cummins12V98's avatar
    Cummins12V98
    Explorer III
    Jan 12, 2020
    Place the two head support brackets that the head sets on FULL forward with the straight edges towards the cab. Adjust height to give at least 6" bed clearance.

  • fj12ryder's avatar
    fj12ryder
    Explorer III
    Jan 12, 2020
    A couple inches will make minimal difference. IMO as long as the pin is forward of the rear axle it's good. A couple inches isn't going to affect the handling of the truck/trailer at all. IMO of course.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,111 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 19, 2025