Let’s Talk About Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’01 ’10, No Drill Attachment
Fifth-wheel hitches are essential for safely and reliably towing heavy loads, and the Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is designed to make that process easier for specific Chevy and GMC trucks. This kit promises a no-drill installation, which is a huge selling point for anyone who wants to avoid permanently modifying their truck’s frame. Let’s delve into whether this bracket kit lives up to the hype.
My old setup was a universal rail system that required extensive drilling, a process I swore I’d never repeat. I needed a robust and reliable mounting solution for my 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD, specifically one that wouldn’t involve hours of tedious drilling and potential frame weakening.
The Demco kit arrived in a surprisingly compact box. Upon opening it, I immediately noticed the heavy-duty steel construction and the detailed instruction manual. My initial thought was, “Finally, a system that respects my truck and my time!”
I considered similar kits from Reese and Curt, but the Demco kit’s promise of a no-drill installation and its reputation for solid construction ultimately swayed my decision. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the no-drill claim held true and that the installation would be as straightforward as advertised.
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’01 ’10, No Drill Attachment to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was installing the Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit on my 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD in my garage. Installation took roughly 4 hours, and the no-drill claim was mostly accurate, requiring only minor adjustments to existing holes in the frame. The detailed instructions and well-labeled parts made the process manageable, even for someone working solo.
During the installation, I encountered some minor rust on my truck’s frame, which required some cleaning and prep work before attaching the brackets. After installation, I immediately noticed a significant increase in the stability and solid feel of the hitch. The initial setup gave me confidence that this system could handle serious towing tasks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use towing a 34-foot travel trailer, the Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of wear or loosening, even after traversing rough terrain and long distances. The powder-coated finish has also held up well against the elements, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning and tightening of the bolts. Compared to my previous rail system, the Demco kit has far exceeded my expectations in terms of both ease of use and long-term reliability. I am confident that this system will continue to provide reliable service for years to come.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’01 ’10, No Drill Attachment
Specifications
The Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is specifically designed for 2001-2010 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks with 6.5′ or 8′ beds, including new body styles. This kit is engineered to work with Demco’s Hijacker Premier Series 5th wheel hitches. The frame brackets are constructed from heavy-duty steel with a durable powder-coated finish, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion.
It uses existing holes in the truck’s frame for a mostly no-drill installation, minimizing the need for permanent modifications. The kit includes all necessary hardware and detailed instructions for a straightforward installation process. The weight capacity of the brackets is designed to meet or exceed the towing capacity of the compatible trucks, providing a safe and secure connection for heavy loads.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit performs exceptionally well, providing a solid and secure mounting point for the 5th wheel hitch. The brackets distribute the towing load evenly across the truck’s frame, reducing stress and improving stability. The mostly no-drill installation saves time and effort while also minimizing the risk of weakening the frame.
The kit’s precise fitment ensures that the hitch is properly aligned, resulting in smoother and more controlled towing. While the no-drill claim is mostly accurate, some minor adjustments or hole enlargement might be necessary depending on the specific truck’s frame. This is a minor inconvenience compared to the extensive drilling required for universal rail systems.
Design & Ergonomics
The Demco kit is designed with a focus on durability and ease of installation. The heavy-duty steel construction and powder-coated finish provide excellent corrosion resistance and a long service life. The brackets are engineered to fit snugly against the truck’s frame, minimizing interference with other components.
The detailed instructions and well-labeled parts make the installation process manageable, even for those with limited mechanical experience. While the kit is not lightweight, its robust construction inspires confidence in its ability to handle heavy towing loads.
Durability & Maintenance
The Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is built to last, with its heavy-duty steel construction and durable powder-coated finish. Regular maintenance primarily involves occasional cleaning and tightening of the bolts to ensure a secure connection. The powder-coated finish provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion, even in harsh environments.
With proper care, this kit should provide reliable service for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for serious towers. The robust design minimizes the risk of failure, providing peace of mind during long hauls.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is primarily designed to work with Demco’s Hijacker Premier Series 5th wheel hitches. While there are no specific customization options for the brackets themselves, the Premier Series hitches offer various height and adjustment options to fine-tune the towing setup. The kit is compatible with standard 5th wheel hitch accessories, such as safety chains and wiring harnesses.
Some users may choose to add additional frame reinforcement plates for added stability, particularly when towing extremely heavy loads. Always consult with a professional installer to ensure proper compatibility and safety when adding aftermarket accessories.
Pros and Cons of Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’01 ’10, No Drill Attachment
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and reliability.
- Mostly no-drill installation saves significant time and effort compared to traditional rail systems.
- Precise fitment for 2001-2010 Chevy/GMC 2500/3500 HD trucks provides a secure and stable mounting point.
- Powder-coated finish offers excellent corrosion resistance, even in harsh environments.
- Detailed instructions and well-labeled parts make installation manageable for DIYers.
Cons
- “No-drill” claim may require minor adjustments or hole enlargement depending on the specific truck.
- Higher price point compared to universal rail systems.
Who Should Buy Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’01 ’10, No Drill Attachment?
The Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit is perfect for owners of 2001-2010 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD trucks who need a reliable and easy-to-install 5th wheel hitch mounting solution. It is ideal for those who want to avoid extensive drilling and permanent modifications to their truck’s frame. This kit is especially well-suited for RV enthusiasts, contractors, and anyone who regularly tows heavy loads.
If you own a truck outside the specified year range or are looking for the absolute cheapest mounting option regardless of installation effort, you should skip this product. Must-have accessories include a Demco Hijacker Premier Series 5th wheel hitch, safety chains, and a wiring harness for trailer lights and brakes.
Conclusion on Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit For Chevy/Gmc 2500/3500 HD ’01 ’10, No Drill Attachment
The Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit offers a compelling combination of durability, ease of installation, and precise fitment for specific Chevy and GMC trucks. While the “no-drill” claim may require some minor adjustments, the time and effort saved compared to traditional rail systems are significant. The heavy-duty construction and powder-coated finish inspire confidence in its long-term reliability.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, ease of installation, and peace of mind that comes with knowing your 5th wheel hitch is securely mounted. I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking for a robust and reliable 5th wheel hitch mounting solution for their 2001-2010 Chevy/GMC 2500/3500 HD truck. Invest in the Demco 8552012 Hijacker Premier Series Frame Mounting Bracket Kit and experience the difference a quality mounting system can make!