Why Would Anyone Choose Above Bed Fifth Wheel Rails?

Question

Here are some of the reasons I can think of buying above bed ISR fifth wheel rails as opposed to an under bed set of rails.

1) Cost and ease of installation (with frame specific install kits)
2) Compatability with a large spectrum of fifth wheel hitches from all manufacturers without the need for special and expensive adapters
3) extra tie off points when hauling a load in the bed
4) easy to convert to a gooseneck hitch by installing a relatively cheap gooseneck plate adapter in the rails

That’s about all I got. Anyone else have any reasons to install above bed rails as opposed to an under bed solution?

I know one of the cons include not having a flat bed when not towing.

Thanks

Jeremiah

mowermech · Answer

Yep, all those reasons, except for the gooseneck ball. It was installed in my truck when I bought it.
As for having a flat bed when not towing, it took me just a few minutes to remove the four bolts holding the rails when I didn't want them in the way. No problem at all.
The main reason I went with that particular Husky hitch was that is was on sale at the time, for a considerable saving. Saving money was a great deal more important than any consideration about the in bed rails.
I made a spacer out of 2 inch lumber so that I didn't have to remove the rails when hauling my 11.5 foot slide in camper.

memtb · Answer

jerem0621 wrote:Here are some of the reasons I can think of buying above bed ISR fifth wheel rails as opposed to an under bed set of rails.  1) Cost and ease of installation (with frame specific install kits)2) Compatability with a large spectrum of fifth wheel hitches from all manufacturers without the need for special and expensive adapters 3) extra tie off points when hauling a load in the bed4) easy to convert to a gooseneck hitch by installing a relatively cheap gooseneck plate adapter in the rails That’s about all I got.  Anyone else have any reasons to install above bed rails as opposed to an under bed solution?I know one of the cons include not having a flat bed when not towing.  ThanksJeremiah   Pretty hard to argue with logic and facts....though many do!  A couple of sections of 3/4” plywood, cut to fit....pretty much eliminates the rails in the bed argument!  Though....those with a short box truck, will complain about the loss of storage room! ;)

idad · Answer

Those are basically the reasons I went with ISRs. Cost less, easy install and it offered lots of flexibility for rail mount hitches and the drop in gooseneck plates. It hasn't bothered me having them in there and they make handy tie down points for cargo.

I can't agree with mowermech on taking them in and out. Some of the bolts on my installation aren't easy to get to at all and they're torqued spec which was pretty **** tight.

jerem0621 · Answer

Thank you for the feedback everyone.   I like the ISR  solutions for fivers and goosenecks.  Thanks!Jeremiah

msjdbman · Answer

I have been using the in bed rails for close to 25 years now.  Started with a gooseneck hitch and later added the fifth wheel hitch.  I’ve swapped the rails now between 3 different trucks.  Just bought new bolts.  On the rare occasion that I need a flat surface, I have a sheet of one inch plywood with cutouts.  Works fine for me.

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Why Would Anyone Choose Above Bed Fifth Wheel Rails?

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