5th Wheel Prep- new truck

[bartlettj]

I'm in the market for a new 3500HD SRW, and I'm starting to shop. I prefer big cab/shortbed. I have supplier discounts for both GM and Ram so leaning that way. I definitely want spray in bed liner.

I may end up just ordering what I want, but I'm planning to upgrade from a bumper pull to a 5th wheel in the next 2 years and I'd like to make sure I get the right factory prep to make installing a hitch later easy. I'm leaning toward just getting the integrated brake controller, wiring harness, and turnover gooseneck prep but not bothering with purchasing a hitch yet. I like to use the truck for hauling lumber and other things when not towing, so I don't want to use up space in the bed if I can avoid it. Any thoughts?

[mowingman]

A 3500 with SRW is very hard to find. I searched for several months to find a new or used one with a nice interior trim package. The only one ton SRW trucks any dealers had in stock, were plain jane work trucks. You will most likely have to order one. Yes, the 5th wheel towing prep package includes the in-bed trailer RV plug and wiring. I ended up finding a nicely equipped Certified used 2016, longbed, Dodge 3500 SRW. It was a lucky find, and we are in "Truck Country" here in Texas.

[PhilipB]

Have 2015 Ram with factory prep. I think this also includes the trailer harness in the bed. Best I recall it's about $500. I think this is a stronger platform that traditional in bed rails. Lots of hitch choices for factory prep platforms, regardless of truck brand.

[stro1965]

My current Ram has the prep package and I just ordered a new one with it. Very nice option.

[DakotaDad]

Just another vote for getting the 5th wheel hitch prep. My hitch stays in the bed most of the time. But on the occasion where I need it out, it only takes a few minutes. I get by without a slider as well, even with a short box. But my fiver has the cut away corners to prevent contact. Not all do.

I'd do it all over again if I had to get a new truck.

[BB_TX]

Definitely get the factory hitch prep. On Ford that includes 5th wheel hitch hookup and gooseneck hookup, and I assume also on GM and Ram. And towing package which includes factory trailer wiring and tow mirrors, again at least Ford does and I assume GM and Ram. Works great.

[agesilaus]

Not that you need a fifth wheel hitch right away, but most people do not leave the hitch in the truck when they are not going to be towing soon. Get the fifth wheel hitch prep tho it will make your life a lot easier.

[lmpres]

I just bought a 2017 Ford F350 Diesel dually. I was able to order the underbed 5th wheel hitch set up directly through Ford and have the local Dealer put it in. The hitch is the same setup they sell as an option on the truck. I priced an aftermarket setup and it was in the $1600 range. I was able to get it done this way for $900....

[LIKE2BUILD]

I installed both the OEM 5th wheel and gooseneck systems in my 2014 RAM. I would say without a doubt they are worth it.

Since you said short bed I think your best option is to definitely get the 5th wheel prep. The short bed may require you to use a slider hitch which will necessitate the pucks on each corner. You can get a gooseneck version of the B&W companion slider hitch but that requires a B&W gooseneck receiver. With all that said, I think the 4-puck 5th wheel system gives you the greatest # of hitch options. There is a version of the B&W that works with the puck system along with several other hitch brands.

Do you foresee the possibility of pulling a gooseneck? If so, then get that too. And definitely get the in-bed wiring. If you're ordering a truck these options don't cost all that much.

KJ