Let’s Dive into Reese 56017 5Th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets For Ford F 250 Super Duty F 350 Super Duty And F 450 Super Duty, 2017 2020
The Reese 56017 5th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets are designed for specific Ford Super Duty trucks from 2017 to 2020. These brackets promise a no-drill installation, which is a major selling point for anyone who values their truck’s integrity. The Reese brand is a well-known name in towing, and these brackets aim to simplify the often-complex process of installing a 5th wheel hitch. For anyone regularly hauling a fifth-wheel trailer, a solid and reliable mounting system is an absolute necessity.
My need for these brackets stemmed from a growing desire to explore the country with a larger fifth-wheel camper. The existing setup in my F-250 Super Duty was showing its age and required a complete overhaul to handle the increased weight and size. I was particularly drawn to the “no-drill” aspect, as I am always hesitant to modify my truck’s frame.
Upon unboxing, the brackets felt substantial and well-made, a testament to the Reese name. The black powder-coat finish appeared durable and ready to withstand the elements. The weight of the brackets suggested a robust construction, giving me confidence in their ability to handle heavy loads.
I considered other options from Curt and B&W, but ultimately, the Reese brackets’ promise of a truly custom, no-drill fit for my specific truck model swayed me. Many universal kits require some level of modification or drilling, which I wanted to avoid. The Reese system offered a cleaner, more integrated solution.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the brackets looked and felt like a quality product, the true test would be in the installation and actual performance under load. I was excited to see if they lived up to the “quick install” claim.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reese 56017 5Th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets For Ford F 250 Super Duty F 350 Super Duty And F 450 Super Duty, 2017 2020 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Reese 56017 brackets by installing them on my 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty and then towing a 38-foot fifth-wheel camper on a 500-mile trip. The trip included varied terrain, from flat highway stretches to steep mountain grades. Weather conditions ranged from sunny and dry to heavy rain.
The brackets performed admirably in both dry and wet conditions, maintaining a solid and secure connection between the truck and camper. There was no noticeable sway or instability, even on winding mountain roads. The confidence the system inspired was a huge relief after dealing with a less reliable setup previously.
Installation, while not completely drill-free, was significantly easier than anticipated. The instructions were clear, and the brackets aligned perfectly with existing holes in the truck’s frame. It took me about 4 hours with basic tools.
The only minor issue I encountered was needing to purchase the required 48″ Wide Rail Kit #30153 separately, which wasn’t explicitly clear at the point of purchase. Having to make an additional trip for the rails was a slight inconvenience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 5,000 miles of towing, the Reese 56017 brackets have held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear or tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches on the powder-coat finish. The brackets remain securely mounted to the truck frame, with no loosening or shifting.
Maintenance has been minimal, consisting primarily of occasional cleaning with soap and water. I also apply a light coat of grease to the hitch rails to ensure smooth operation. The robust construction and durable finish have proven their worth.
Compared to my previous setup, which involved a universal rail kit and significant drilling, the Reese brackets are a night-and-day improvement. The Reese system is far more stable, easier to install, and provides a much greater sense of security. The peace of mind is worth the investment alone.
Breaking Down the Features of Reese 56017 5Th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets For Ford F 250 Super Duty F 350 Super Duty And F 450 Super Duty, 2017 2020
Specifications
Vehicle Specific Fit: Designed specifically for 2017-2020 Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty trucks. This ensures optimal fit and minimizes installation hassles.
No-Drill Installation: The brackets utilize existing holes in the truck frame, eliminating the need for drilling and preserving the truck’s structural integrity. This is a significant advantage for those who want to avoid permanent modifications.
Requires 48″ Wide Rail Kit #30153: The brackets are designed to be used with the Reese 48″ Wide Rail Kit, which provides the necessary mounting platform for the 5th wheel hitch. This kit is sold separately.
Durable Construction: Made from heavy-duty steel with a black powder-coat finish for corrosion resistance and long-lasting durability. This ensures the brackets can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use.
Limited 10-Year Warranty: Reese offers a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This provides peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality.
These specifications are critical for a safe and reliable towing experience. The vehicle-specific design ensures a proper fit, while the no-drill installation minimizes the risk of damaging the truck’s frame. The durable construction and warranty provide added assurance.
Performance & Functionality
The Reese 56017 brackets perform exceptionally well in their intended role. They provide a solid and secure mounting point for the 5th wheel hitch, minimizing sway and instability. The no-drill installation is a significant advantage.
The main strength is the ease of installation and the rock-solid connection they provide. The only weakness is the need to purchase the rail kit separately, which adds to the overall cost and requires an extra step.
The brackets met my expectations for a high-quality, easy-to-install 5th wheel mounting system. They have exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and stability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Reese 56017 brackets feature a simple and functional design. The heavy-duty steel construction provides a sense of confidence, while the black powder-coat finish adds a touch of style. The brackets are designed to be unobtrusive when the 5th wheel hitch is not in use.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, even for someone with limited mechanical experience. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. A basic set of tools is all that is required.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and durable finish, the Reese 56017 brackets are expected to last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the hitch rails will help to extend their lifespan. The 10-year warranty provides added protection.
Maintenance is minimal, consisting primarily of cleaning with soap and water and lubricating the hitch rails. The brackets are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reese 56017 brackets are designed to be used with the Reese 48″ Wide Rail Kit #30153. This kit provides the necessary mounting platform for the 5th wheel hitch.
While there are limited customization options for the brackets themselves, they are compatible with a wide range of 5th wheel hitches from various brands. The Reese system is designed to be flexible and adaptable to different towing needs.
Pros and Cons of Reese 56017 5Th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets For Ford F 250 Super Duty F 350 Super Duty And F 450 Super Duty, 2017 2020
Pros
- Vehicle-specific design ensures a perfect fit for 2017-2020 Ford Super Duty trucks.
- No-drill installation saves time and preserves the truck’s frame.
- Heavy-duty steel construction provides exceptional durability.
- Black powder-coat finish resists corrosion and extends lifespan.
- Provides a solid and secure mounting platform for 5th wheel hitches.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of the 48″ Wide Rail Kit #30153.
- The “quick install” claim is slightly misleading, as it still requires a few hours.
Who Should Buy Reese 56017 5Th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets For Ford F 250 Super Duty F 350 Super Duty And F 450 Super Duty, 2017 2020?
Perfect for owners of 2017-2020 Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty trucks who regularly tow fifth-wheel trailers. It’s ideal for those who value a clean, easy-to-install mounting system that doesn’t require drilling.
Those who are looking for the absolute cheapest option or who are comfortable with extensive drilling and modification should skip this product. Also, those with trucks outside the 2017-2020 Ford Super Duty range need to look at other options.
A must-have accessory is the Reese 48″ Wide Rail Kit #30153. Consider also purchasing a high-quality 5th wheel hitch to complete the system.
Conclusion on Reese 56017 5Th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets For Ford F 250 Super Duty F 350 Super Duty And F 450 Super Duty, 2017 2020
The Reese 56017 5th Wheel Custom Quick Install Brackets are a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to install a 5th wheel hitch on a 2017-2020 Ford Super Duty truck. The no-drill installation, durable construction, and vehicle-specific design make them a top contender in this category.
The price is justified by the quality, ease of installation, and long-term reliability. While the need to purchase the rail kit separately is a minor drawback, the overall value is excellent.
I would absolutely recommend these brackets to anyone in the market for a 5th wheel mounting system for their Ford Super Duty truck. They provide a solid, secure, and hassle-free towing experience. Upgrade your towing game today with the Reese 56017!