When it comes to towing with your Ford F350, choosing the right 5th wheel hitch can make all the difference. With a variety of options available, each tailored for different towing needs, it’s essential to find one that matches your requirements. Whether you prioritize weight capacity, ease of use, or durability, the right hitch can enhance your towing experience. Let’s explore the top picks that could elevate your towing game.
B&W Trailer Hitches 20K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch (RVK3300)
If you’re looking for a reliable fifth wheel hitch for your Ford F350, the B&W Trailer Hitches 20K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch (RVK3300) is an excellent choice. With a weight capacity of 20,000 lb GTW and 5,000 lb VTW, it’s perfect for heavy towing. The fully articulating head allows for smooth front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting, ensuring a stable ride. Plus, the cam action latching handle makes for easy release, even on unlevel sites. Proudly made in America, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind on your towing adventures.
Best For: Those seeking a durable and high-capacity fifth wheel hitch for heavy towing with their Ford F350.
Pros:
- High weight capacity of 20,000 lb GTW and 5,000 lb VTW, suitable for heavy trailers.
- Fully articulating head allows for smooth pivoting, enhancing stability during towing.
- Easy release mechanism designed for use on unlevel sites, making it user-friendly.
Cons:
- Compatibility limited to Ford OEM Puck System, reducing versatility for other truck models.
- Potentially heavy for some users, making installation and removal more challenging.
- Higher price point compared to lower-capacity hitches, which may not be necessary for lighter towing needs.
CURT PowerRide 30K 5th Wheel Hitch
The CURT PowerRide 30K 5th Wheel Hitch stands out as an excellent choice for Ford F-350 owners who demand high towing capacity and reliable performance. With a remarkable rating of 30,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 7,500 lbs vertical load capacity, it’s perfect for heavy-duty towing. Its robust construction features a cast yoke and multi-directional head that tilts with the trailer for smooth handling. You’ll appreciate the self-resetting handle and the 3-position indicator for easy coupling status checks. Plus, it disassembles into lighter pieces and installs easily with quarter-turn anchors, making your towing experience hassle-free.
Best For: The CURT PowerRide 30K 5th Wheel Hitch is best for Ford F-350 owners looking for a high-capacity towing solution with reliable performance.
Pros:
- High towing capacity of 30,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 7,500 lbs vertical load capacity.
- User-friendly features like a self-resetting handle and a 3-position coupling status indicator.
- Easy installation and portability with break-down design and quarter-turn anchors.
Cons:
- Specifically designed for select Ford Super Duty models, limiting compatibility with other vehicles.
- May be heavier than some alternative hitches, requiring more effort for handling.
- Installation may require additional tools or assistance for optimal setup.
B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch (RVK3305)
For Ford F350 owners seeking a reliable and robust towing solution, the B&W Trailer Hitches 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch (RVK3305) stands out with its impressive 25,000 lb GTW capacity. Compatible with the Ford OEM Puck System and proudly made in America, this hitch features a fully articulating head, allowing front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting. Its cam action latching handle guarantees easy release, even when parked on unlevel sites. Plus, with a vertical tongue weight capacity of 6,250 lbs and a limited lifetime warranty, you can tow confidently knowing you’ve chosen a dependable option for your heavy hauling needs.
Best For: Those who own a Ford F350 and require a durable fifth wheel hitch for heavy towing tasks.
Pros:
- High weight capacity of 25,000 lbs GTW and 6,250 lbs VTW, suitable for heavy trailers.
- Easy to use with a cam action latching handle for quick release, even on unlevel surfaces.
- Made in America with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring quality and durability.
Cons:
- Limited compatibility as it is specifically designed for the Ford OEM Puck System.
- Potentially heavy for some users to install or remove without assistance.
- Higher price point compared to basic hitch options on the market.
CURT Q20 5th Wheel Hitch (20,000 lbs)
Engineered specifically for Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models with an 8-foot bed puck system, the CURT Q20 5th Wheel Hitch is a top choice for serious towing enthusiasts. With a remarkable towing capacity of 20,000 lbs and a vertical load of 5,000 lbs, it meets stringent SAE J2638 safety standards. The hitch features a spherical axial bearing for quiet towing and a single short-throw handle for easy coupling. A built-in 3-position indicator keeps you informed on your coupling status. Just remember, it’s not compatible with articulating or turret-style pin boxes like Rota-Flex and Sidewinder.
Best For: Serious towing enthusiasts who own a Ford F-250, F-350, or F-450 with an 8-foot bed puck system.
Pros:
- High towing capacity of 20,000 lbs and vertical load of 5,000 lbs, suitable for heavy trailers.
- Quiet towing experience due to the spherical axial bearing design.
- User-friendly with a single short-throw handle for easy coupling and a built-in coupling status indicator.
Cons:
- Limited compatibility; not suitable for articulating or turret-style pin boxes like Rota-Flex and Sidewinder.
- Specifically designed only for Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models, excluding other truck brands.
- Requires proper installation and may necessitate additional equipment for optimal use.
Reese 30921 M5 Fifth Wheel Hitch (20,000 lbs. Capacity)
Designed for serious towing enthusiasts, the Reese 30921 M5 Fifth Wheel Hitch stands out with its impressive 20,000 lbs towing capacity. This hitch features an exclusive Talon Jaw design that guarantees a secure connection, while its rugged appearance adds to your truck’s bold look. It’s compatible with 2011-2024 Ford F250, F350, and F450 Super Duty models, provided you have the Factory HD Towing Option and Ford OE Prep Package. The black powder coat over E-coat finish resists corrosion, assuring durability. Plus, the locking handle means it’s always ready to receive your trailer when you need it.
Best For: Towing enthusiasts with 2011-2024 Ford Super Duty trucks looking for a reliable and durable fifth wheel hitch.
Pros:
- High towing capacity of 20,000 lbs, suitable for heavy trailers.
- Exclusive Talon Jaw design ensures a secure and stable connection.
- Corrosion-resistant finish enhances durability and longevity.
Cons:
- Requires Factory HD Towing Option and Ford OE Prep Package for compatibility.
- Installation may be complex for those without experience in hitch setups.
- Limited to specific Ford models, reducing versatility for other vehicle brands.
Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel
The Reese 30047 16K Fifth Wheel stands out as an excellent choice for truck owners who frequently tow heavy loads, thanks to its impressive 16,000-pound capacity and 4,000-pound pin weight capacity. This hitch features a two-jaw locking system, ensuring a secure connection with your trailer. You’ll appreciate the adjustable heights from 14 1/2 to 18 inches and the 6-inch side-to-side pivot, which simplifies hook-ups on uneven ground. With its wide stance legs, you’ll experience improved stability during towing. Plus, it’s easy to remove for full bed access. A five-year limited warranty backs this durable hitch.
Best For: Truck owners who frequently tow heavy loads and require a reliable hitch for stability and ease of use.
Pros:
- Two-jaw locking system provides a secure connection with the trailer.
- Adjustable heights and side-to-side pivot enhance usability on uneven terrain.
- Wide stance legs improve stability during towing.
Cons:
- Rail kit is sold separately, which may add to the overall cost.
- Installation may require additional tools and expertise.
- Some users may find the weight of the hitch cumbersome for removal.
CURT E16 5th Wheel Hitch (16,000 lbs)
For those looking to tow heavy loads with their Ford F-350, the CURT E16 5th Wheel Hitch is an excellent choice. Rated for 16,000 lbs, it’s designed specifically for select F-250, F-350, and F-450 models with an 8-foot bed and puck system. The dual-pivoting head offers 10 degrees of lateral movement, ensuring a smooth towing experience. An automatic locking coupler enhances security, while the anti-rattle skid plate reduces vibration. Installation is quick and easy with quarter-turn anchors. Plus, it meets SAE J2638 safety standards, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Best For: Those who own select Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models with an 8-foot bed and puck system, looking to tow heavy loads securely and smoothly.
Pros:
- Dual-pivoting head allows for smooth towing with 10 degrees of lateral movement.
- Automatic locking coupler enhances security during towing.
- Quick and easy installation with quarter-turn anchors.
Cons:
- Limited compatibility to specific Ford models with an 8-foot bed and puck system.
- Rated for a maximum of 16,000 lbs, which may not meet the needs of heavier trailers.
- Requires a compatible truck bed setup, limiting versatility for other vehicles.
PullRite 2714 OE Puck Series 16K SuperGlide Hitch for Ford, Black, Standard
If you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly option for towing with your Ford F-350, the PullRite 2714 OE Puck Series 16K SuperGlide Hitch stands out. This hitch is specifically designed for 2010-2021 Ford F-250 and F-350 models, making installation a breeze with no tools required. It boasts a maximum gross trailer weight capacity of 16,000 lbs and a trailer pin weight capacity of 4,000 lbs. The fully automatic slide offers a 14-inch movement, ensuring smooth towing. Plus, the removable mounting post assemblies make setup and removal simple, enhancing your towing experience with ease and convenience.
Best For: Those seeking a reliable and user-friendly towing solution specifically for 2010-2021 Ford F-250 and F-350 trucks.
Pros:
- Fully automatic slide with 14 inches of movement for smooth towing.
- Easy installation and removal with no tools required, thanks to removable mounting post assemblies.
- High weight capacities, accommodating up to 16,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 4,000 lbs pin weight.
Cons:
- Limited compatibility, as it is specifically designed for only Ford F-250 and F-350 models from 2010 to 2021.
- The weight capacity may not meet the needs of those requiring higher towing limits.
- Color options are limited to black, which may not appeal to all users.
CURT A25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch (25,000 lbs)
When searching for a robust and reliable towing solution, the CURT A25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch stands out with its impressive 25,000 lbs gross trailer weight rating. This hitch features an ergonomic handle and an extra-wide head for easy coupling, while the self-resetting handle guarantees convenience after uncoupling. The 3-position coupling indicator keeps you informed of your hitch status. Thanks to patented head technology and a cast yoke with poly-torsion inserts, you’ll experience controlled towing with reduced shock and noise. Plus, it’s compatible with select Ford F-350 models, making it a perfect fit for your towing needs.
Best For: The CURT A25 Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch is best for truck owners looking for a high-capacity towing solution compatible with select Chevy and Ford models.
Pros:
- High weight capacity: Rated for 25,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 6,250 lbs vertical load.
- User-friendly design: Features an ergonomic handle and an extra-wide head for easy coupling and uncoupling.
- Advanced technology: Patented head technology and poly-torsion inserts enhance towing performance by reducing shock and noise.
Cons:
- Compatibility limitations: Only fits select models of Chevrolet and Ford trucks, which may not suit all truck owners.
- Weight: The hitch may be heavier than some users prefer, making installation and removal more challenging.
- Price point: Higher cost compared to non-sliding hitches, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Curt 16033 Ford OEM Legs w/ Q16 5th Wheel Hitch Head
The Curt 16033 Ford OEM Legs paired with the Q16 5th Wheel Hitch Head are ideal for Ford F-350 owners seeking a reliable towing solution. This hitch boasts a 16,000 lbs towing capacity and features a self-resetting handle for easy coupling. With its patented head technology, it minimizes shock loads and noise while providing full articulation. Installation’s a breeze, thanks to quarter-turn anchors designed for the Ford puck system. Plus, the durable carbide black powder coat guarantees long-lasting protection against scratches and rust. With a solid 4.4-star rating, it’s a trusted choice for your towing needs.
Best For: Owners of Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models looking for a reliable and easy-to-use 5th wheel towing solution.
Pros:
- Self-resetting handle simplifies the coupling and uncoupling process.
- Patented head technology reduces shock loads and noise for a smoother towing experience.
- Quick installation with quarter-turn anchors specifically designed for Ford puck systems.
Cons:
- Limited to compatibility with select Ford models with 8-foot beds.
- Weighs 90.8 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users to handle.
- Performance is limited by the lowest-rated towing component, potentially reducing the overall towing capacity.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 5th Wheel Hitch for Ford F350
When choosing a 5th wheel hitch for your Ford F350, you’ll want to contemplate several important factors. Think about the weight capacity you need, how well it fits with your truck’s puck system, and the design features that enhance articulation. Don’t forget to look at the ease of installation and the durability of the materials used.
Weight Capacity Requirements
Choosing the right weight capacity for your 5th wheel hitch is vital to confirm safe towing with your Ford F350. Start by considering the gross trailer weight (GTW) rating; it should meet or exceed the weight of your trailer. The vertical tongue weight (VTW) capacity is also significant, typically falling between 10-15% of the GTW to maintain stability. For heavy-duty towing, look for hitches rated between 20,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs GTW, as they suit most large trailers and RVs. Don’t forget to verify the hitch’s VTW capacity aligns with the pin weight, which usually ranges from 15% to 25% of the GTW. Always cross-reference hitch specs with your vehicle’s towing capacity to stay safe and compliant.
Compatibility With Puck System
Ensuring compatibility with the Ford OEM Puck System is essential for selecting the right 5th wheel hitch for your F-350. You’ll want a hitch specifically designed for this system to guarantee a proper fit and secure installation. Many hitches offer quick installation mechanisms, like quarter-turn anchors, making setup easier. However, always verify the hitch’s weight capacity; compatibility with the puck system doesn’t mean it can handle all trailer weights. Look for user-friendly features such as self-resetting handles and coupling indicators to enhance ease of use. Additionally, some hitches are engineered for full articulation, allowing your trailer to move smoothly while mounted on the puck system, ensuring a safe towing experience.
Design and Articulation Features
Selecting the right design and articulation features for your 5th wheel hitch can greatly enhance your towing experience with the Ford F-350. Look for hitches with fully articulating heads that allow front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting, improving maneuverability and reducing stress on your towing setup. Self-resetting handles are a fantastic addition, automatically returning to the ready position after uncoupling, making operation smoother. Dual-pivoting heads provide lateral movement, guaranteeing a more comfortable ride, especially on uneven terrain. Prioritize safety features like automatic locking couplers for added security during coupling, giving you peace of mind while towing. Finally, verify your hitch meets industry standards, like SAE J2638, for reliability and safety under significant loads.
Ease of Installation
When it comes to towing with your Ford F-350, the ease of installation for your 5th wheel hitch can make a big difference in your overall experience. Many hitches feature quarter-turn anchors, allowing you to install them quickly without extra tools. Look for models with a one-pin head removal design, making it easier to handle and relocate components. User-friendly designs often include strategically placed grips for comfortable lifting, simplifying the process. If you’re working alone, consider hitches that break down into smaller, lighter pieces. Finally, compatibility with factory puck systems means these hitches fit perfectly into pre-existing mounting points, ensuring a hassle-free installation. Choose wisely, and enjoy a smooth towing experience!
Durability and Construction Material
While you may be tempted to focus solely on price when choosing a 5th wheel hitch for your Ford F-350, the durability and construction material should be top priorities. Opt for hitches made from high-strength steel or heavy-duty cast iron, as these materials can withstand high loads and resist deformation. A protective finish, like a black powder coat over E-coat, enhances corrosion resistance, essential for longevity in harsh weather. Look for designs with interlocking jaws and multi-directional heads, as they improve stability and minimize wear on the trailer’s kingpin. Verify the weight capacity aligns with your towing needs, and always check for hitches that meet SAE J2638 specifications for reliable performance and safety.
Safety Ratings and Testing
Choosing a 5th wheel hitch for your Ford F-350 goes beyond just durability and construction materials; safety ratings and testing play an essential role in ensuring a secure towing experience. Look for hitches that meet SAE J2638 specifications, as they undergo rigorous testing to guarantee reliability. Pay attention to weight capacities, including gross trailer weight (GTW) and vertical tongue weight (VTW), ensuring they don’t exceed your vehicle’s limits. Automatic locking mechanisms enhance safety during coupling and uncoupling, preventing accidental disengagement. Proper installation and compatibility with your towing systems are crucial; incorrect setups can lead to failures. Additionally, features like anti-rattle skid plates and shock-absorbing components can reduce vibration, enhancing stability for a safer towing experience.
User-Friendly Features
User-friendly features are essential for a smooth towing experience with your Ford F-350. Look for hitches with self-resetting handles that automatically return to the ready position after uncoupling. This enhances ease of use during the towing process. Choose models equipped with a 3-position coupling indicator, clearly displaying the hitch’s status—coupled, uncoupled, or ready to tow—for quick visual checks. Opt for hitches featuring a fully articulating head for improved maneuverability and stability, allowing for front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting. Additionally, consider hitches designed with strategically placed grips for comfortable lifting and handling. Finally, select models that break down into smaller, lighter components, making them easier to transport and install without needing extra tools.