Hitch for 5.0 TA

[Time2escape]

I have never had a fifth wheel before and am looking for guidance and recommendations.
Specifically hitch rails to use in a 2023 f150 6.5 bed with the escape 5.0 TA.

I see the Andersen ultimate hitch mentioned a lot on here but am unsure which rail to use with it. I prefer a no drill rail installation customized for the f150.

Would either of these work well?
https://www.etrailer.com/multi-produ...&HHModel=F-150

https://www.etrailer.com/multi-produ...&HHModel=F-150

Also, I am in the Denver area. Anyone have experience with any dealers and installers out here?

[bristol5.0]

I installed a Curt rail kit for my 2019 F150 with 6.5 ft bed. Both Reese and Curt make kits with no drilling that utilize existing holes and access areas. Both make 2 versions of the no-drill kit. One has the tabs bending out away from the main frame member and another with the tabs bending inward directly over the frame. Your first link is for the the outward tabs. I installed the kit with the inward tabs and it was much more difficult to torque the bolts fastening the rails to the frame kit due to restricted access. My dealer torqued the 4 bolts I had trouble with at the scheduled maintenance visit. If I were to do it again I would definitely use the outbound kit. The rails are longer than standard for this kit. If I had an installer do the job, I would discuss it with them. I think they typically use universal kits and drill the frame and placement is adjustable.


Good luck, you'll love the 5.0 and the ease of towing.

[SageRpod]

I went with the B&W Turn-Over ball setup and the Andersen Ultimate Hitch. No rails in the bed when the hitch is out and the ball will turn over so you have an unobstructed bed floor. The price difference wasn't that much. Either way, you will love the Andersen hitch and the towing experience with the F150.