Today, we’re going to discuss the installation of the Ford OEM Fifth Wheel Prep Package on my 2019 Ford F250 Super Duty truck. I installed this package on my truck over a year ago, and it has been a game-changer for hauling heavy loads.
The prep package consists of a heavy-duty cross member that is installed underneath the truck bed and bolted to the frame. This allows for the installation of a fifth-wheel assembly in the bed of the truck.
The prep package includes pucks accessible through holes drilled into the truck bed, allowing for easy installation of the fifth-wheel assembly. Additionally, it comes with a trailer brake and light connection that is installed inside the truck bed.
I opted for the BMW hitch due to its stellar reviews, sturdy build, and ability to handle up to 20,000 pounds, which exceeds my trailer’s 10,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating.
When I purchased the truck used, the dealership offered to install the prep package for $750 in labor costs, but they planned to use an aftermarket package. Not wanting to compromise on quality, I decided to install the OEM package myself.
Purchasing the prep package through the dealership cost me $650, plus taxes. However, by installing it myself, I saved $750 in labor costs, making it a cost-effective decision.
Below, you can find a time-lapse video of the installation process, along with a detailed rundown of the tools required and the steps involved in the installation.
Installation Process Time-Lapse
Tools Required for Installation
- Fifth wheel hitch cross member
- Sockets and wrenches for assembly
- Hole saws for drilling
- Torque wrench for tightening bolts
Installation Steps
1. Remove the tailgate and disconnect wiring for the camera.
2. Loosen the gas filler tubes and remove them.
3. Disconnect the trailer brake and light connections.
4. Unscrew the bolts holding the bed and hoist it up using a suitable mechanism.
5. Drill holes in the truck bed for the puck system and apply spray paint for protection.
6. Install the outer and inner L brackets and secure them with bolts and flag nuts.
7. Insert the cross member locating pins and mount the fifth-wheel assembly onto the brackets.
8. Torque all bolts as per the manual specifications.
9. Reinstall the bed, connect the wiring harness, and reattach the tailgate and gas filler tubes.
10. Route the wiring connector for the hitch and secure it in place.
11. Reinstall the trailer brake and light connections.
12. Lower the bed and fasten the bed bolts securely.
13. Install the trim rings for the puck system and connect the remaining wiring components.
14. Confirm the proper attachment of all components and test the hitch connection.
Installing the OEM Fifth Wheel Prep Package is a comprehensive process, but it ensures a reliable and secure setup for towing heavy loads. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can equip your truck for efficient fifth-wheel towing.
If you’re considering this upgrade for your truck, investing in the Ford OEM Fifth Wheel Prep Package and installing it yourself can lead to substantial cost savings and a tailored towing solution for your needs.
What is a prep package for a fifth wheel?
A prep package for a fifth wheel is a heavy-duty cross member that gets installed underneath the truck bed and bolted to the frame. This allows the installation of a fifth wheel assembly in the bed of the truck.
Why did you choose the BMW hitch for your truck?
The reason I chose the BMW hitch is because of the positive reviews I read online. The BMW hitch is well-built, sturdy, and stable with a four-puck system that can handle up to twenty thousand pounds, which more than meets my needs for towing a 10,000-pound trailer.
Why did you decide to install the OEM prep package on your own?
I installed the OEM prep package on my own because the dealership from which I bought my used truck was not willing to install the prep package using the Ford OEM system. They were going to use an aftermarket package from a third-party installer rather than the Ford OEM package. They were going to charge me $750 in labor costs to remove the truck bed and install it, and I didn’t feel comfortable with their lack of familiarity with the process. Therefore, I decided to do it myself, saving $750 in labor costs.
How much did the OEM prep package cost?
The OEM prep package cost me $650, which I bought through the dealership. This was in addition to taxes. However, by installing it myself, I saved $750 in labor costs, making it a cost-effective decision overall.