Will be ordering a new 2019 Ford F-450 soon with the 5th wheel hitch prep option. Looking at getting the Hensley BD5 Air-Ride 5th Wheel Hitch. With the Ford 5th wheel hitch prep, the BD5 looks like an easy install.
Anyone out there with the BD5 setup? How do you like the hitch and ride? Did you do the install?
I'm the OP so here's a little more info and another question.
I currently have a Hensley TS air hitch on my 2008 Ford F-450. It's one piece and weights about 350 pounds. The truck has air bags to help level the combo.
My new RV has the MorRyde pin box. Together I have a great ride and with the air bags, the combo is pretty level.
The new RV colors don't match the the old truck so "Wifee" said we need a new truck. Guys you know the old saying "If Wifee is not happy .......".
I know the new trucks have a higher bed and the 5th wheel prep option for the Ford has the 4 puck system. The Hensley BD5 has a great sub frame that fits perfect to the 4 puck system. Also, the hitch comes in 3 pieces so will be really easy to mount.
So now my only concern is the truck bed rail clearance. With my present setup and the 2" risers on my 2017 RV I have all of 7" of clearance. I hope I can get that with the new setup and still have the RV towing pretty level.
OK, so my question, you guys out there with late model Fords and Henley hitches, how much clearance do you have between the truck bed rails and the RV?
I will be honest I really don't think my 23K 5er would tow any differently if my air bag pinbox was a standard one. I think it's more important to have your tow vehicle equipped properly.
I don't think the Hensley would make my ride any better than what I already have.
I agree, with the air ride on your truck, and the great suspension system of your Suites, you likely would not notice a difference. Other's truck/FW, it could make a noticeable difference. My rig could ride better, with add ons, but works for me as is, for the miles I tow.
4x4ord wrote: Is it better to have the airbag on the truck hitch than the trailer hitch? That looks like a heavy hitch. Have you considered a Flex Air pin box...... I've never towed with either.
I will be honest I really don't think my 23K 5er would tow any differently if my air bag pinbox was a standard one. I think it's more important to have your tow vehicle equipped properly.
I don't think the Hensley would make my ride any better than what I already have.
Is it better to have the airbag on the truck hitch than the trailer hitch? That looks like a heavy hitch. Have you considered a Flex Air pin box...... I've never towed with either.
