Help with hitch decision

[bertschb]

I just ordered a new Grand Design Reflection 318RST 5th wheel (GVWR 13,995) and plan to buy a 2016 GMC 3500 Duramax truck next. The truck has a 6.5' bed.

I've spent a week reading up on hitches on multiple forums and I've narrowed my choice of hitches to the B&W Companion and Trailer Saver BD3 Air-Ride.

My needs:
I want the hitch to be completely removed from the bed when not in use (nothing at all showing).
It has to be something I can lift out myself without a hoist.
It needs to provide a smooth ride that protects the truck and 5th wheel.

Is there a factory under bed hitch mount option I should order with my truck that will make installing the hitch easier or can I get everything I need from the hitch manufacturers? I guess I'll throw in one more question while I'm at it...Can I get the best of both worlds by replacing the pin box on the 5th wheel with a Trail-Air and then getting the B&W Companion which appears to be lighter for removing from the bed?

Kind of overwhelmed with all the options available. Money is no object which helps. Any help would be appreciated!

[bertschb]

tabraha wrote:
There isn't a thing needed from the factory, the B&W kit has everything necessary. Do have the installer put a plug in the bed though so your power cord isn't banging around on the tailgate or drag/snag hazard.

OK, that's good to know I don't need the under bed prep kit from GMC. I think the truck will come with a "trailering wiring provision" option. The description is "Includes additional 7-way wiring harness routed to the front of the pickup box". Sounds like that will work.

[tabraha]

I just moved from a '13 GMC to a '15 and had a B&W put in this time around. Had one in a previous Super Duty but when I picked up the '13 GMC went with a Reese because that is what was available at the time. I could not stand the bed rails and removal of the hitch was a pain as well. I quickly regretted not going back with the B&W.

This time around I went back with B&W as a hitch and have the Mor/Ryde pin box on my 5'er from the factory. It's a smooth combination. Zero chucking or squeaking and everything is always in place inside the unit upon arrival.

The clean bed when not in use is a plus and having the ability to hitch to a gooseneck if necessary is just added flexibility.

There isn't a thing needed from the factory, the B&W kit has everything necessary. Do have the installer put a plug in the bed though so your power cord isn't banging around on the tailgate or drag/snag hazard. The top part is universal so if you change vehicles down the road you only need the bed rail kit.

The B&W comes out in 2 pieces but neither is very light. Doable for 1 person as I do it all the time solo but it is so much easier for 2 people. I'd time it to have a buddy and a beer handy just to have a reason to. 🙂

[bertschb]

3 dog nights wrote:
I have a Trailer Saver, I liked the idea of moving the hitch should I upgrade my current truck. Felt like if I put the air bags in the pin box I would have to leave it.

Excellent point. Thanks

Do you think I should order the factory GMC under bed hitch prep (whatever that is) or just order whatever is available from Trailer Saver for their hitch system?

[Peg_Leg]

I think they call the four mounting holes the puck system. I think you can order this from the factory. They didn't have this when I ordered my truck.

[enblethen]

You could go with a goose neck adapter and Goose neck hitch from factory.

[3_dog_nights]

Everyone will defend the one they have, and you will get twelve more suggestions. I will only offer my thoughts, I have a Trailer Saver, I liked the idea of moving the hitch should I upgrade my current truck. Felt like if I put the air bags in the pin box I would have to leave it.
Best of luck, safe rides!