Let’s Talk About Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 1500 And Dodge 1500/2500/3500 ’02 ’13
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is a game-changer for anyone looking to install a 5th wheel hitch without the unsightly bed rails. Demco, a trusted name in towing solutions, has engineered this kit for select Chevy, GMC, and Dodge trucks manufactured between 2002 and 2013, offering a clean and secure mounting solution. This UMS series bracket kit promises a near-invisible installation, mounting beneath the truck bed and requiring only four holes for the hitch’s mounting pins.
My journey to finding this kit began with a desire to haul a new camper trailer without sacrificing the usability of my truck bed. I was specifically seeking a mounting solution that wouldn’t interfere with loading and unloading cargo when the 5th wheel hitch wasn’t in use. The low-profile design of the Demco Hijacker UMS Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction of the brackets. The heavy-duty steel and meticulous welds exuded quality and promised a secure connection to my truck’s frame. The kit included all necessary hardware, and the detailed instructions seemed straightforward enough, though I anticipated a moderately involved installation process.
I considered several other options before settling on the Demco 8551005. Reese and B&W offer similar under-bed mounting systems, but Demco’s reputation for ease of installation and competitive pricing ultimately swayed my decision. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight apprehension about the installation process, but I was confident that the end result would be worth the effort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 1500 And Dodge 1500/2500/3500 ’02 ’13 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit on my 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 in preparation for a cross-country camping trip. The installation took the better part of a Saturday, requiring careful measurements and drilling the four necessary holes through the truck bed. The brackets themselves bolted securely to the truck’s frame, providing a solid foundation for the 5th wheel hitch.
The trip covered over 3,000 miles, encompassing varying road conditions, from smooth highways to bumpy backroads. The Demco mounting system performed flawlessly throughout the journey, exhibiting zero play or movement between the hitch and the truck bed. Even through some pretty rough terrain, the brackets held firm and the trailer tracked smoothly behind the truck.
The ease of use was particularly noteworthy. Attaching and detaching the 5th wheel hitch was quick and simple, thanks to the precisely aligned mounting pins. There were no alignment issues or struggles when hooking up the trailer. The only issue encountered was ensuring the mounting pins were adequately greased to prevent any potential seizing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a year of regular use, including several long-distance hauls and weekend camping trips, the Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the brackets or mounting hardware. The powder coat finish has held up well, resisting rust and corrosion despite exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Regular maintenance involves periodically inspecting the mounting bolts and applying fresh grease to the mounting pins. Cleaning is a breeze, simply requiring a quick wash with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous experience with above-bed rail systems, the Demco UMS system is a significant improvement in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and overall ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 1500 And Dodge 1500/2500/3500 ’02 ’13
Specifications
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is specifically designed for select Chevy/GMC 1500 (2007-2013 tube frame) and Dodge 1500/2500/3500 (2002-2013) trucks. The kit is constructed from heavy-duty, high-strength steel, ensuring a robust and reliable connection between the truck frame and the 5th wheel hitch. The mounting brackets are finished with a durable powder coat to resist rust and corrosion.
The UMS (Under-bed Mounting System) design mounts the brackets beneath the truck bed, requiring only four holes to be drilled for the hitch mounting pins. This provides a clean and uncluttered truck bed when the hitch is not in use. The kit includes all necessary mounting hardware, including bolts, washers, and nuts, to facilitate a complete and secure installation.
These specifications are crucial for the kit’s performance and longevity. The high-strength steel ensures that the brackets can withstand the considerable forces generated by towing a heavy 5th wheel trailer. The powder coat finish protects the brackets from the elements, preventing rust and corrosion that could compromise their structural integrity.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit excels in its primary function: providing a secure and reliable mounting platform for a 5th wheel hitch. The brackets exhibit no noticeable flex or play during towing, contributing to a smooth and stable towing experience. The precise alignment of the mounting pins makes hitching and unhitching the trailer quick and straightforward.
The most significant strength of this kit is its ability to provide a near-invisible mounting solution. This maintains the truck bed’s functionality when the hitch is not in use. A potential weakness is the initial installation, which requires precise measurements and drilling through the truck bed. However, this is a one-time task and the end result is well worth the effort.
The Demco 8551005 exceeds expectations in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and overall user experience. The clean and uncluttered truck bed, combined with the secure and reliable towing performance, makes this kit a worthwhile investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. The heavy-duty steel construction and durable powder coat finish exude quality and reliability. The under-bed mounting design is a significant improvement over traditional above-bed rail systems, providing a clean and uncluttered truck bed.
The installation process requires a moderate level of mechanical skill and attention to detail. However, the included instructions are clear and concise, making the process manageable for most DIYers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is built to last. The heavy-duty steel construction and durable powder coat finish ensure years of reliable service. Regular maintenance is minimal, involving only periodic inspections of the mounting bolts and lubrication of the mounting pins.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit itself does not offer many customization options. However, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of Demco Hijacker UMS Series 5th wheel hitches. This allows users to choose a hitch that best suits their specific towing needs.
The kit does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 1500 And Dodge 1500/2500/3500 ’02 ’13
Pros
- Provides a near-invisible mounting solution, maintaining the truck bed’s functionality.
- Heavy-duty steel construction ensures a secure and reliable towing experience.
- Durable powder coat finish resists rust and corrosion.
- Compatible with a wide range of Demco Hijacker UMS Series 5th wheel hitches.
- Clear and concise installation instructions.
Cons
- Requires drilling four holes through the truck bed for installation.
- Installation can be time-consuming and requires precise measurements.
Who Should Buy Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 1500 And Dodge 1500/2500/3500 ’02 ’13?
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is perfect for RV enthusiasts who want to tow a 5th wheel trailer without sacrificing the functionality of their truck bed. It’s also ideal for those who value a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Anyone owning one of the compatible trucks (Chevy/GMC 1500 2007-2013 tube frame, or Dodge 1500/2500/3500 2002-2013) would benefit significantly from this kit.
Those who should skip this product are individuals uncomfortable with drilling holes in their truck bed, or those who prefer a quick and easy above-bed rail installation. Also, it’s crucial to verify your specific truck model and year for compatibility before purchasing.
A must-have accessory is a Demco Hijacker UMS Series 5th wheel hitch compatible with the Demco 8551005 brackets.
Conclusion on Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 1500 And Dodge 1500/2500/3500 ’02 ’13
The Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is a well-engineered and highly functional towing solution. It transforms your truck into a capable 5th wheel hauler while preserving the utility of your truck bed. The initial installation requires some effort, but the long-term benefits are well worth the investment.
At $569.99, the price is justified given the kit’s robust construction, durable finish, and seamless integration with compatible Demco hitches. I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone seeking a clean, secure, and reliable under-bed mounting system for their 5th wheel trailer.
Ready to ditch those unsightly bed rails and reclaim your truck bed? Invest in the Demco 8551005 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit and experience the freedom of hassle-free towing!