Help to confirm hitch position

Sulphur1 · 10-25-2015, 11:38 PM

Hi
Could someone please confirm the location for a Reece R20 Titan Hitch installed in a 2011 Chev Silverado 2500HD 6'6" bed using a Reece 30153 Rail Kit. I will be towing a 2011 Keystone Cougar with a 5th Airborne pin box.
I have found two different measurements! - 24 1/4" and 25 3/16".
This is to centre the hitch over the rear axle centre.
This is the measurement from the edge of the rear rail (bed end side) to the end of the truck bed (metal edge).
Thanks in anticipation
Jon

bsmith0404 · 10-26-2015, 04:15 AM

According Reese instructions, the 30153 rails must be mounted on a 56000 series brackets. According to the Reese website, the 56001 outboard brackets are the correct ones for your truck. The instructions for the 56001 brackets show 24 1/4" for a 6.5' bed.

With that said, I always double check location using tape measure. I would set the assembled hitch in the bed, make sure it is centered over the axle per the instructions and then mark the location of the legs (make sure it is straight, measure distance to front and rear of bed off of each leg). Then you can mark your rail location. Keep in mind that they still have to line up with the brackets underneath. If you drill a 1/8" hole per the instructions, you can put a wire down through it to check alignment with the brackets. If you come up with a measurement that is close, 24 1/2" as an example, I'd go with the 24 1/4" per the instructions. However, if your center location shows something way off, 23 1/2" as an example, I'd call Reese tech support for assistance. Installing a hitch is a fairly simple process as long as you read carefully, fully understand what you are doing, and double, then triple check all of your measurements before you start drilling. Having the rails centered and straight is just as important as having them the correct distance front to rear. I've installed a few rail kits, I just followed the Reese instructions each time and they all came out great.

SteveC7010 · 10-26-2015, 04:54 AM

Just a point of interest and help: All the Reese instruction sheets and manuals are available on their website: http://www.reeseprod.com/

When I installed the rail kit and vehicle specific mounting brackets on my truck, the exact placement of the rails was determined by the location of the mounting holes in the custom brackets. It matched the install sheet within a half inch. YMMV based on which mounting kit you use for the rails.

jsmith948 · 10-26-2015, 05:45 AM

When I installed my Reese hitch, I used the adapter plates that bolt onto the outside of the frame rails. This dictated where the in bed rails were positioned. BTW, the center point of the kingpin is 2 5/16" forward of the axle center line - which matches the instructions +/- 1/4". I think having the kingpin just forward of the axle center line will provide more stability when towing. FWIW

bsmith0404 · 10-26-2015, 05:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jsmith948

When I installed my Reese hitch, I used the adapter plates that bolt onto the outside of the frame rails. This dictated where the in bed rails were positioned. BTW, the center point of the kingpin is 2 5/16" forward of the axle center line - which matches the instructions +/- 1/4". I think having the kingpin just forward of the axle center line will provide more stability when towing. FWIW

I edited my post. I was thinking center of legs, but that isn't correct for the OPs hitch either. My hitch has an offset pivot point which moves the pin forward of center with the legs centered over the axle. The mounting brackets used with the rail kit will give the correct location.

Sulphur1 · 10-27-2015, 03:18 AM

Many thanks - I appreciate your replies.
I also rang Reece and although I can't confirm if the underside frame brackets are made by Reece, the guy advised to position the rear rail 24 1/4" from the bed rear end.
I'll also check as per your install experience & advice.
Cheers
Jon

roadglide · 10-28-2015, 04:24 AM

https://www.etrailer.com/Fifth-Wheel...16413-204.html The kit is right on .

bsmith0404 · 10-28-2015, 05:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by roadglide

https://www.etrailer.com/Fifth-Wheel...16413-204.html The kit is right on .

etrailer has a few easy install kits that are a perfect fit and easy install for our trucks. Unfortunately the OP already has the components for his install. I don't think the OP will have any problems once he gets started. My main concern for him is that he is not sure what brackets he has. The instructions for the rails he has tell him specifically which brackets to use.

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