Hey everyone! I recently upgraded to a Ram 3500 with the Cummins diesel, and I’m gearing up to haul a 15,000lb fifth-wheel trailer on some long-distance trips this summer. While the truck definitely has the muscle, I want to make sure I have the right accessories to keep the ride stable and stress-free.
I’ve been researching hitch options and I'm torn between a traditional sliding hitch or something like the Reese Goosebox to keep my bed clear when I'm not towing. Also, I’m really interested in tech that helps with visibility—does anyone have experience with third-party camera systems or TPMS sensors that play nice with the Ram’s Uconnect display? I’ve also been debating whether I should install a set of airbags to help with leveling, or if the factory suspension is plenty for that kind of pin weight.
I’m looking for high-quality recommendations that are worth the investment for a heavy-duty setup. For those of you who have been towing with your 3500 for a while, what are the absolute 'must-have' accessories you'd suggest for someone doing heavy, long-haul towing?
Hmm, I've had a different experience when it comes to the suspension. Respectfully, I'd consider another option before dropping a ton of cash on airbags. Since you've got a 3500, those leaf springs are designed for heavy pin weights, and bags can sometimes make the rear end feel a bit "floaty" if the pressures aren't perfect. For a more budget-friendly and technically stable solution, I'd suggest the Torklift StableLoad Suspension Upgrade (Lower Load). It basically engages your factory overloads sooner, keeping the truck level without messing with air lines or compressors.
Also, for the hitch, the Goosebox is nice, but if you want the most stable connection for a 15k trailer, the B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch for Ram Puck System is the gold standard for a reason. It's built like a tank and fits the factory holes perfectly. For tech, definitely look into the Mopar Trailer-Link TPMS Kit—it's usually cheaper than high-end third-party setups and integrates right into your dash. gl!
In my experience, when you're moving 15,000lbs, stability is literally everything. I'm really satisfied with the Reese Goosebox 20k because it saves your back from lifting a heavy hitch and keeps the bed clean, but honestly, if you have a short bed, just make sure you've got the clearance for those tight turns. Between that and a traditional slider, the Goosebox is way smoother cuz of the integrated air bag.
Speaking of bags, even though the 3500 is a beast, I still recommend the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate kit. It basically levels everything out and stops that annoying porpoising on the highway. For tech, I'd stick with the Mopar Trailer Camera Kit since it integrates right into your Uconnect screen without some extra monitor cluttering the dash. It's just safer to keep things streamlined... anyway, hope that helps! 👍
Just catching up on this thread. I went through this last year... honestly, even with 3500 leaf springs, the squat at 3k pin weight shifted my steering geometry. I installed Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate which has internal jounce bumpers for safety. Also, I grabbed the TireMinder i10 RV TPMS because monitoring tire heat is vital on long hauls.
TL;DR: Airbags fixed my headlight aim and dedicated TPMS provides better telemetry than factory sensors.
Honestly, when your looking at the current market for 3500 accessories, the shift is definitely toward vibration damping and weight reduction. If you want to keep the bed clear without the weight of a traditional slider, you should really compare the Reese to the Gen-Y Executive Torsion Flex Fifth Wheel to Gooseneck. While Reese uses air, Gen-Y uses torsion technology which - in my professional opinion - offers a more consistent ride across different road surfaces without worrying about air pressure leaks. A few other market leaders to consider for a setup this heavy: * SumoSprings Blue/Black: These are a massive competitor to airbags right now. Unlike bags that require maintenance, these are basically "fit and forget" and wont pop on a long haul. * Haloview BT7 Backup Camera: Most guys jump on the Mopar kit, but Haloview is dominating the third-party space because their signal strength and frame rate usually beat the factory integration for long trailers??
* Centramatic On-Board Wheel Balancers: These are a pro-grade secret. They sit behind the wheel and constantly balance the assembly while you move, which saves your tires. Basically, you want components that handle the "chucking" and vibration before it hits the frame. Heavy-duty towing isnt just about weight - its about managing the energy transfer between the rig and the truck!!!