Problems Mounting Curt E16 5th-Wheel Hitch to Rails on 2010 Dodge Ram 3500

Question:

I am having a problem with my curt model #16116 not lining up on my rails of the hitch. goes in great on three slots but the other side one slot will not go in the rail . the truck is 3500 ram 8ft bed the rails where installed by previous owner . is there something I can do. I backed of the nuts and moved the front rail but still not enough play to make it work.

asked by: Winston

Expert Reply:

It's difficult to say what could be causing the problem you are having installing your Curt E5 Fifth Wheel Hitch # C16115 without knowing the manufacturer of the existing rails on the 2010 Dodge Ram Pickup. The Curt E5 is compatible with above-bed base rails by B&W, Curt, Demco, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Husky, Reese and Valley but it's possible the particular rails on your truck are simply not compatible. The front and rear rail should be 22 inches apart when measured from the center of the front rail to the center of the rear. I have also attached an image of the kind of rails the Curt will work with that should have 3 universal mounting slots on each side of the rail.

However, the fact that you are able to mount 3 of the hitch legs without issue but not the fourth makes me think something may be a bit crooked, either with the rails or on the 5th-wheel hitch legs themselves. I recommend verifying that the rails are installed correctly and the there is equal distance between the two rails on both sides.

If you find that you need to replace the rails, I recommend the Curt Installation Kit # C16420-204 which is compatible with your Curt E16.

If you are able to send me a picture of your rails and 5th wheel hitch, I would be happy to look into this further.

expert reply by: Chris R