The turnover ball is a B&W product because it provides greater versatility AND B&W will warranty the system to whatever the limits are of the hitch attached to it. In my conversations with Brant, I learned that a turnover ball in the center of the bed is a better approach. When it comes to 5th wheel hitch installations – a better approach… Second, the system I will next detail is far more versatile. While the truck can handle this, if the puck system is used, it will exceed the capacity stated by Reese and Curt and if there is a failure, warranty claims will be declined. For example, pulling a horse trailer or utility trailer can create loads of up to 30,000 pounds. First, it is only rated to 24 or 26000 pounds towing capacity (depending upon whether the Curt or Reese system is installed AND assuming you only make use of the puck system.) While this may sound like plenty for most rv’ers (my trailer is a solid 15000 pounds), it may not be if your needs change OR if you sell it and the next buyer has different needs. While the the Puck System (available for all 3 big truck manufacturers – Ford, GM, Ram/Dodge) is “plug and play”, it has two significant drawbacks. ![]() I’m going to tell you at the outset, that just from conversations with both of these gentlemen, I have STRONG confidence in their knowledge base and professionalism when it comes to hitch installs and Rhino linings (another option that Ford “kicked” when the 5th wheel prep was unable to be done by Ford at the factory.) Why I’m GLAD that Ford was unable to deliver on their 5th wheel prep package that would have included the Puck System… ![]() When I visited with them, I had the good fortune to speak with both Brant and Kiley who are co-owners of Esquire RV, located right here on the main drag in Vernal, actually less than 1/2 mile from Fossil Valley RV Park – my current “home on the road.” ![]() This turn of events led me to have a serious conversation with a local RV dealer here in Vernal, Utah. Getting a fifth wheel hitch – back to the drawing board… He was simply acting out of expediency as he was told by Ford corporate that I would never receive my truck if that option remained in my order! The simple reason is that Reese (and Curt) – the makers the under-bed rails that would typically be installed before the truck’s bed is attached to make the puck system did not have ample supply to sell to Ford to build into the truck during assembly. ![]() Why the General Manager “kicked” my 5th wheel hitch prep order I made a special order for my truck on May 25, 2021, I took possession on Ap(just under 11 months!)… errrr… THAT is just how things work in our nation at this time! (And…in my post about the truck, I’ll tell you why it was ONLY 11 months.)īetween my order and arrival dates, the General Manager at the Ford dealer made a decision on my behalf – and this started my learning curve – he deleted the “5th wheel prep package” from my order which would have included under the bed rails to which a “4 legged hitch” could securely attach very quickly and easily to the frame of my truck – BUT – there are drawbacks that I’ve since learned about and I’m glad he opted to delete that package from my truck order. Taking delivery of my new Ford F-350 – without the puck system (as you can see, I got dressed up for the occasion!)Īnswer: NOT! First, my Ford dealer took care of this decision for me before the truck ever arrived.
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