BlueOx BedSaver with PullRite Slider

[jbsmith]

I just purchased a BlueOx BedSaver (BXR4501) for installation on my PullRite 18K ISR hitch (PR2900). The installation was relatively straightforward, but required a bottle jack to spread the BedSaver slightly so I could insert the mounting bolts. Once installed, I was disappointed to discover that the BedSaver interferes with the rearward motion of the hitch head. :confused:

E-mail communication with BlueOx indicated the BXR4501 would work with the PR2900. It obviously won't without some re-engineering of two triangular plates welded on either side of the hitch. I'm considering cutting/grinding these plates just enough to restore full range of motion of the hitch head. I'm sure this will void the warranty on my hitch, so I might just try to find a 16K hitch head. As far as I can tell, the plates are not load bearing and simply prevent the rear tabs of the head from spreading apart.

I'm curious if others have had similar problems or have considered installation of the BedSaver on their hitches.

[larrym]

I'm considering that same saver for my 18k superglide (4400), but all I see it cataloged for is the 16k superglide, now I'm having second thoughts, wishing I could see one up close and personal before buying. Anyone know if it'll work?

You should call Pullrite about that small mod, they may so OK.

[jbsmith]

All of the measurements and specifications indicate that the BXR4501 should work on pretty much all of the SuperGlide models. I'm told that the primary difference between the different models is the size and spacing of the glide tubes. The head and yoke on the hitch are allegedly the same. the only difference between the 18K SuperGlide and the 18K ISR is how it mounts to the truck.

The BedSaver mounts fine to the yoke on my 18k Superglide ISR, but the hitch head hits the arms of the BedSaver...as you can see in the pics I already posted. I suspect that older heads designed for the 16k hitch did not include the steel brace welded across the back of the head causing the interference. I only need about 1/4 inch shaved off. I'm waiting until it warms up.

I've included some basic dimensions that BlueOx gave me on the BedSaver and an annotated graphic of my hitch. You should look at the underside of your hitch head to determine if it has the same cross brace that's causing me trouble.

Red – 14.63 inches
Blue – approx 9.5 inches – I don’t have the exact dimension
Green – 4.03 inches

Other photos attached show the installed hitch, maximum rearward travel, and underside of the hitch head.

I've got emails out to both Blue Ox and PullRite. The folks at Blue Ox have been very responsive and helpful.

[larrym]

Great information, thanks! Several sites I've researched show the BXR4501 as the type that spans the hitch, side to side, bolting to the sides, not the one you show, which I prefer, it looks as if I could still use my cover.

When I was installing my Superglide, I called Pullrite tech, great support, very friendly and efficient. Thanks, Larry:thumbsup:

[jbsmith]

Great information, thanks! Several sites I've researched show the BXR4501 as the type that spans the hitch, side to side, bolting to the sides, not the one you show...

The various internet sites are showing a generic image of another Blue Ox BedSaver design, they are not the BXR4501. You can do a Google Image search and you'll find photos of the actual model for the PullRite hitches. There's also an installation guide on the Blue Ox website.

[jbsmith]

I took another look at the BlueOx Application guide and the 18K SuperGlide (Model 4400) allegedly requires the BXR4505. Here is a link to the installation instructions: http://www.blueox.com/Uploads/Docs/bxr4505.pdf I'm looking into the BXR4505 to see if it might not be a better option for the 18K ISR hitch. I'm hoping that BlueOx will trade the BXR4501 out for me.