Was wondering if anyone has had problems having a 5th wheel hitch installed on there 09-11, 1500 QC. I have talked to a few hitch install shops and they tell me they are a nightmare to install because of the way the frame and suspension is set up. I have heard everything from needing special brackets to having to remove plastic wheel well liners for the install. They make it sound like it's the hardest install of any 1/2 ton, and have to charge a lot more for labor because of the extra time it takes to do it.

 

No idea on the hitch, but I can tell you that removing the rear wheel well liners isn't a big deal. You can take one out in about 5 minutes by removing a dozen or so screws and applying a little convincing pressure downward. With the right English on things it pops out pretty easily and back in about the same way. I wouldn't say it just drops out freely, but it isn't very hard. If a hitch place is going to charge you a bunch of labor because of removing them just pull them out yourself before you bring the truck in to them.

I'm sure removing the liners gives easier access to points under the bed where the hitch might have to be bolted in. I removed mine to get at my coil spring airbags for similar reasons of access.

Rob

 

I recently had a 5th wheel hitch installed by a local Cap-it shop. They did have to order in a bracket that goes between the frame and box. While the instructions indicated the wheel wells had to be removed, they were able to install the hitch / bracket with out removing them.

Sounds like you are getting the straight goods from the shops you have been talking to.

Hope this helps you out.

FWIW I have a Hijacker slider hitch, 2011 Outdoorsman QC.

Mike

 

Ordered a bracket kit. Had it a few days later. Took to a Camper place that the tech is good. He did mine in 2.5 hours while I waited. Even cut my bedliner perfect to fit around bed brackets.