Let’s Talk About Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension
Fifth-wheel hitches are the backbone of heavy-duty towing, and the mounting brackets are what tie it all together. Today, we’re diving deep into the Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension, a crucial component for safely and securely attaching your fifth-wheel hitch to your Dodge Ram.
My own journey to this particular kit began when I upgraded to a larger fifth-wheel camper. I needed a robust and reliable mounting solution for my 2016 Ram 3500, one that wouldn’t require extensive drilling or modification to my truck’s frame.
Upon unboxing the kit, I was immediately impressed by the heft and seemingly durable construction of the brackets. The powder-coated finish looked tough, promising resistance against the elements, while the pre-cut and pre-drilled design suggested a straightforward installation.
I had initially considered universal mounting kits, but the Demco kit’s vehicle-specific design swayed me. The promise of a no-drill installation (or minimal drilling) and a precise fit for my Ram 3500 was too appealing to pass up. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping the installation would be as easy as the description suggested.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension myself in my garage, using basic hand tools and following the included instructions. While “no-drill” is a bit of a stretch (more on that later), the process was significantly less involved than welding or fabricating a custom solution. The initial test was a short haul, just a few miles, but it was immediately clear that the brackets provided a solid and stable platform for the fifth-wheel hitch.
The brackets performed admirably even in less-than-ideal conditions. I encountered some heavy rain on one trip, but the powder-coated finish showed no signs of corrosion. I found that the brackets provided a confidence inspiring foundation for towing; however, the install wasn’t as easy as described, requiring modification of some heat shielding.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and thousands of miles towing across various terrains, the Demco mounting brackets have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of cracking, bending, or loosening of the bolts. Regular checks of the hardware are still necessary, as with any towing setup.
Maintenance is simple; I periodically inspect the brackets for any signs of rust or damage and re-torque the bolts as needed. Compared to my previous setup (a poorly designed universal kit on a different truck), the Demco brackets offer significantly better stability and peace of mind. The Demco brackets provide consistent reliability when towing heavy loads.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension
Specifications
Compatibility: Designed specifically for 2013-2018 Dodge Ram 3500 trucks without rear air suspension. This ensures a proper fit and optimal weight distribution.
Mounting Style: SL-Series, utilizing a manual slider rail system. This allows for fore-and-aft movement of the hitch, crucial for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Box Length Compatibility: Fits both 6.5′ and 8′ bed lengths, including Mega Cab models. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of Ram 3500 configurations.
Construction Material: Heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish. This provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, essential for long-term durability.
Installation: Advertised as a “no-drill” or “minimal drill” installation. While some drilling may be required depending on the specific truck model, the design minimizes the need for extensive modifications.
Weight Capacity: Rated to handle the weight capacity of compatible Demco Hijacker SL-Series fifth-wheel hitches. This ensures that the brackets can safely support the load you’re towing.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the safety, stability, and ease of use of your fifth-wheel towing setup. A proper fit and robust construction are paramount for preventing accidents and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable towing experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension performs its job admirably, providing a rock-solid foundation for the fifth-wheel hitch. The slider rail system allows for easy maneuvering, and the brackets themselves show no signs of flexing or weakness even under heavy loads.
The main strength is the robust construction and vehicle-specific design, resulting in a secure and stable connection. A potential weakness is the “no-drill” claim, which may not be entirely accurate for all installations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco mounting brackets are designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The heavy-duty steel construction inspires confidence, and the powder-coated finish provides excellent protection against the elements.
The installation process, while not entirely “no-drill”, is relatively straightforward with clear instructions, minimizing the learning curve. The Demco brackets are designed for ease of use, even for the average DIYer.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the heavy-duty construction and powder-coated finish, these brackets are built to last. Regular inspections and occasional re-torquing of the bolts are all that’s needed to keep them in good working order. With proper care, the Demco brackets should easily provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension is primarily designed to work with Demco’s Hijacker SL-Series fifth-wheel hitches. However, it’s generally compatible with any SL-Series hitch that conforms to industry-standard rail dimensions.
While there aren’t many customization options for the brackets themselves, the slider rail system allows for adjusting the hitch position to optimize weight distribution and turning clearance. You may need to purchase longer bolts depending on your bed liner thickness.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension
Pros
- Provides a rock-solid and stable mounting platform for fifth-wheel hitches.
- Vehicle-specific design ensures a precise fit and optimal weight distribution.
- Heavy-duty steel construction and powder-coated finish offer excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
- SL-Series slider rail system allows for easy maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Relatively easy to install, even for DIYers with basic mechanical skills.
Cons
- The “no-drill” claim is misleading; some drilling may be required depending on the truck model.
- Higher price point compared to universal mounting kits.
- Instructions could be more specific to prevent confusion.
Who Should Buy Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension?
Perfect for: Owners of 2013-2018 Dodge Ram 3500 trucks without rear air suspension who need a reliable and easy-to-install mounting solution for their Demco Hijacker SL-Series fifth-wheel hitch. Also suitable for those who value a precise fit and robust construction over a potentially cheaper, but less secure, universal kit. This is a great product for RVers who plan to tow heavy loads.
Who should skip this product? Those with Ram 3500 trucks with rear air suspension, as this kit is not compatible. Also, those on a very tight budget may want to explore universal options, though I would strongly advise against compromising on safety and stability.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality torque wrench is essential for proper installation. Also, depending on your bed liner thickness, you may need to purchase longer bolts.
Conclusion on Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension
The Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about fifth-wheel towing. While the “no-drill” claim is a bit of a stretch, the vehicle-specific design, robust construction, and ease of installation make it a superior choice compared to universal kits.
The price is justified by the peace of mind knowing that your fifth-wheel hitch is securely and reliably mounted to your truck.
I would definitely recommend this kit to anyone with a compatible Dodge Ram 3500. Don’t compromise on safety – invest in the Demco mounting brackets and enjoy a confident and worry-free towing experience! Get your Demco 8553013 Hijacker Sl Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Dodge Ram 3500 ’13 ’18, No Rear Air Suspension today!