Let’s Talk About Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’11 ’19, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is designed for those of us who need to haul heavy loads with our 2011-2019 Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks. This kit promises a no-drill installation, simplifying the process of adding a 5th wheel hitch to your rig. It’s manufactured by Demco, a name often associated with robust towing solutions.
My old frame mounting brackets were rusting and starting to fail after years of heavy use, creating unsafe towing conditions. I needed a replacement that was durable and, ideally, wouldn’t require drilling into my truck’s frame, as I wasn’t keen on weakening the chassis. The Demco 8551010 kit seemed to offer that perfect balance of strength and ease of installation.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the heft of the steel components. Everything felt solid and well-made, giving me confidence in its ability to handle serious towing. The black powder coat finish looked durable and provided an initial impression of corrosion resistance.
I also considered B&W Companion Under-Bed Mounting Kit and the Reese Elite Series Under-Bed Mounting Kit. Ultimately, I chose the Demco because of the promise of a truly “no-drill” installation and the reputation of Demco for quality.
I was cautiously optimistic. The promise of a no-drill installation was enticing, but I’ve been burned before by similar claims that ended up requiring modifications. Hopefully, this Demco kit would live up to the hype and save me a significant amount of time and effort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’11 ’19, No Drill Attachment to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit on my 2016 Chevy Silverado 2500HD. The first tow was a 10,000 lbs travel trailer on a 300-mile trip through varying terrain, including some steep mountain grades. The system felt incredibly secure, with no noticeable flex or sway.
I encountered some heavy rain and wind during the trip. The brackets held up admirably, maintaining a stable and confident towing experience despite the challenging conditions. The peace of mind this kit provided was well worth the investment.
The “no-drill” installation claim wasn’t entirely accurate – four small holes were required for the mounting pins, as clearly stated in the product description. However, compared to drilling numerous large holes for traditional mounting, it was a significantly easier process. I appreciated the relatively straightforward installation and the resulting secure connection.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, hauling everything from travel trailers to construction equipment, the Demco bracket kit is still performing flawlessly. There are no signs of loosening or corrosion. The powder coat finish remains intact, resisting rust and maintaining a clean appearance.
The brackets have shown no signs of wear and tear, even after navigating rough forest service roads. The robust construction gives me confidence that these brackets will last for years to come. A quick wash with soap and water after each trip is all it takes to keep them looking and functioning like new.
This kit surpasses my expectations. It’s significantly more robust and easier to install than my previous setup. I no longer worry about bracket failure during long hauls.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’11 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Specifications
The Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is specifically designed for 2011-2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks with both 6.5′ and 8′ beds. This compatibility ensures a proper and secure fit for a wide range of heavy-duty trucks. The kit facilitates the mounting of a 5th wheel hitch without the need for traditional above-bed rails, creating a clean and unobtrusive look.
The brackets are constructed from heavy-duty steel, providing exceptional strength and durability for handling heavy towing loads. The mounting system requires only four small holes for the mounting pins, significantly reducing the amount of drilling needed compared to traditional frame mounting systems. This minimized drilling helps maintain the structural integrity of the truck frame. The brackets are finished with a black powder coat, offering excellent corrosion resistance and a professional appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8551010 brackets perform exceptionally well, providing a solid and reliable connection between the truck frame and the 5th wheel hitch. The no-drill design (with the exception of the four pin holes) greatly simplifies installation. It reduces the risk of damaging the truck frame.
The minimal drilling, combined with the sturdy construction, ensures a secure and stable towing platform. The system effectively handles heavy loads without any noticeable flex or sway. The result is a safer and more confident towing experience. The kit meets and exceeds my expectations for performance and ease of installation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco 8551010 kit features a well-engineered design that prioritizes both strength and ease of use. The heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability, while the streamlined design minimizes interference with the truck bed. The kit’s weight reflects the robustness of the materials, contributing to a feeling of confidence in its ability to handle heavy loads.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, even for someone with moderate mechanical skills. The design minimizes the learning curve. The under-bed mounting system creates a clean and unobtrusive look when the 5th wheel hitch is not in use.
Durability & Maintenance
The heavy-duty steel construction and durable powder coat finish of the Demco 8551010 brackets promise a long service life. The kit is built to withstand the rigors of frequent towing and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and inspection, will further extend its lifespan.
The powder coat finish is easy to clean and resists rust. This ensures the brackets maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time. Replacement parts are readily available from Demco, which simplifies any necessary repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit does not include any specific accessories beyond the mounting hardware itself. However, it is designed to be compatible with Demco’s Hijacker UMS Series 5th wheel hitches. It can also work with other industry-standard hitches that utilize a similar under-bed mounting system.
While the brackets themselves are not customizable, the choice of 5th wheel hitch can be tailored to individual towing needs. Consider adding a Demco Hijacker hitch for a complete and optimized towing solution. Other than the hitch choice, this kit does not have any customization options.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’11 ’19, No Drill Attachment
Pros
- Significantly reduced drilling compared to traditional frame mounting systems, preserving the truck frame’s integrity.
- Heavy-duty steel construction provides exceptional strength and durability for handling heavy towing loads.
- Durable black powder coat finish offers excellent corrosion resistance and a professional appearance.
- Relatively easy installation, even for those with moderate mechanical skills.
- Compatible with Demco Hijacker UMS Series 5th wheel hitches and other industry-standard hitches.
Cons
- Requires drilling four small holes for the mounting pins (though still less than traditional kits).
- Higher price point compared to some traditional above-bed rail systems.
Who Should Buy Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’11 ’19, No Drill Attachment?
This kit is perfect for owners of 2011-2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks who frequently tow heavy loads, such as travel trailers, fifth-wheel campers, and construction equipment. It’s also ideal for those who want a clean and unobtrusive look when the 5th wheel hitch is not in use. Anyone looking to avoid extensive drilling on their truck frame will appreciate this kit.
If you’re only occasionally towing light loads or are on a very tight budget, a traditional above-bed rail system might be a more suitable option. Also, if you’re not comfortable with even basic mechanical tasks, professional installation is recommended.
A Demco Hijacker UMS Series 5th wheel hitch is a must-have accessory to complete the towing setup. Also, consider investing in a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of all mounting hardware.
Conclusion on Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’11 ’19, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8551010 Hijacker Ums Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about heavy-duty towing with their 2011-2019 Chevy/GMC 2500/3500 HD truck. The price is justified by the superior build quality, reduced drilling, and enhanced towing safety. I highly recommend this kit.
The Demco 8551010 offers peace of mind and a clean look. If you value a robust and easy-to-install 5th wheel mounting solution, then look no further. Upgrade your towing experience today!