Reese Elite Series Fifth Wheel Hitch Mounting System Rail Kit, Ford RE30180ReeseOut of Stock
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2011 - 2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty
Confirmed to Fit
2011 - 2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty
Confirmed to Fit
2011 - 2016 Ford F-450 Super Duty
Confirmed to Fit
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Want to take the family on a cross-country adventure? Or perhaps you're planning a shorter trip to your favorite campground. Whatever your destination, it's important to have the right equipment, especially when towing a fifth wheel trailer. To ensure proper hookup and safety while towing, you'll need something to attach your fifth wheel hitch in the bed on your truck. Many pickups come equipped with factory-installed rails or puck systems, but if you don't have one of these already installed, don't worry. REESE has an extensive line of mounting rails and bracket kits, custom-made to the exact specifications needed based on your truck's year, make, and model. REESE also offers several Industry Standard designs, as well as fastener kits, spacer kits, and a Power Puck mounting kit, so you can be sure you're covered, no matter what pickup you're using to tow. So make it easy. Make it fun. Make it REESE, so you can make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
| BRAND: | REESE |
| PART NUMBER: | 30126 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 105 LBS |
| UNIVERSAL OR SPECIFIC FIT: | SPECIFIC |
| WELDING REQUIRED: | NO |
| MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED: | YES |
| RAILS INCLUDED: | YES |
| DRILLING REQUIRED: | YES |
| MATERIAL: | STEEL |
| BOLT GRADE: | Grade 8 |
| LOCKABLE: | NO |
| COLOR: | BLACK |
Reese has designed towing equipment since 1952 and remains a benchmark for heavy-duty towing. The line covers fifth wheel hitches such as the modular M5, gooseneck couplers including the Goose Box, air-ride and short-bed pin boxes, weight distribution systems with active sway control, and the accessories that connect them, all built to exceed published industry standards.
Reese has been pioneering towing performance since 1952, when Margaret Reese asked her husband TJ to stop travel trailers rocking every time somebody walked through them. His answer, the first pair of stabilising jacks, was simple and effective enough to change the RV industry. From that starting point Reese grew into a designer and manufacturer of complete towing systems, and today it anchors the heavy-duty end of the Horizon Global towing portfolio.
Fifth wheel towing is where the brand's engineering is most visible. The M5 fifth wheel hitch uses a modular design that breaks into manageable sections for assembly, with a wider stance, tighter tolerances and a shock absorption system aimed at the jolts that travel up through a truck bed. For owners who would rather tow from a gooseneck coupler and keep the bed clear, the Goose Box 20K replaces the trailer's king pin with a gooseneck connection carrying its own air-ride cushioning.
Pin boxes are a Reese speciality. The 5th Airborne uses air-ride technology to dampen road shock and reduce the chucking motion that makes fifth wheel towing tiring, while the Sidewinder was designed for short-bed pickups, pivoting the connection point so the trailer can turn sharply without the front cap meeting the cab.
For conventional towing, Reese weight distribution systems restore load to the tow vehicle's front axle and control sway. The Pro Round Bar distributes weight evenly while damping sway, and the Pro Dual Cam II uses active cam-based sway control that works harder the stronger the sway force becomes. Complete kits pair bars, head and shank to a rated tongue weight, and dedicated sway control kits can be added to existing setups. The products suit RV owners, horse and livestock haulers and anyone towing near the upper end of a vehicle's rating.
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Installing a Reese® Elite™ Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Hitch in a Ford Super Duty
3 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 - 2016 | Ford F-250 Super Duty | Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Rail Kit Uses all existing holes. No Drilling required Install Time is 0 minutes Elite Underbed Rail Kit Except Cab & Chassis |
| 2011 - 2016 | Ford F-350 Super Duty | Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Rail Kit Uses all existing holes. No Drilling required Install Time is 0 minutes Elite Underbed Rail Kit Except Cab & Chassis |
| 2011 - 2016 | Ford F-450 Super Duty | Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Rail Kit Uses all existing holes. No Drilling required Install Time is 0 minutes Elite Underbed Rail Kit Except Cab & Chassis |
The Reese Elite Series Fifth Wheel Hitch Mounting System Rail Kit, Ford RE30126 (Part #RE30126) fits 2011-2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty models. The 2016 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The Reese Elite Series Fifth Wheel Hitch Mounting System Rail Kit, Ford RE30126 (Part #RE30126) fits the following vehicles: 2011-2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty; 2011-2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty; 2011-2016 Ford F-450 Super Duty. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the Reese Elite Series Fifth Wheel Hitch Mounting System Rail Kit, Ford RE30126 (Part #RE30126) is designed to fit the 2011-2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty.
The Reese Elite Series Fifth Wheel Hitch Mounting System Rail Kit, Ford RE30126 (Part #RE30126) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the kit is designed for 2011 Ford Super Duty F250/F350/F450 HD/SD models with 6-foot or 8-foot beds. The manual states these instructions are intended for 2011 Ford Super Duty with 6 to 8 foot bed. For other model years or configurations, consult the manufacturer's website for vehicle application compatibility.
No. The manual explicitly warns: 'Do Not install this fifth wheel hitch on or attempt to tow with a short bed pickup truck that has a bed shorter than 6 ft. unless trailer is equipped with a Sidewinder™ pin box!' Short bed trucks require either a minimum 13-inch extended pin box, a Sidewinder™ pin box, or a slider hitch assembly for regular maneuvers.
Maximum gross trailer weight is 25,000 lb / 11,340 kg. Maximum king pin weight is 6,250 lb / 2,835 kg. The manual states: 'DO NOT EXCEED VEHICLE MANUFACTURER'S RATING FOR FIFTH WHEEL TOWING OR MAXIMUM GROSS TRAILER WEIGHT OF 25,000lb. / 11,340kg AND A MAXIMUM KING PIN WEIGHT OF 6,250lb. / 2,835kg.' The actual towing capacity is limited by whichever is lowest: the hitch rating, the vehicle manufacturer's towing capacity, or the trailer rating.
Use only a SAE 2-inch kingpin with the REESE™ Elite® Series Fifth Wheel Hitch. The manual specifies: 'Use only a SAE 2-inch kingpin with your REESE™ Elite® Series Fifth Wheel Hitch.'
Hitch height should be calculated using the formula: Hitch Height = A – B + 2 inches, where A is the distance from ground to the bottom of the king pin box (measured with trailer level on level ground), and B is the height of the inside of the truck bed to the ground. The 2-inch value estimates suspension compression due to king pin weight, which can range 1–5 inches depending on the truck and trailer. The clearance between the top of the bed rails and the underside of the front of the trailer should be approximately 6–9 inches to allow for pitch and roll. The formula D – C + 2 inches must be greater than 6 inches.
The center of the hitch should be at least 52 inches from the back of the cab when using a long bed truck to prevent the trailer from hitting the cab when the trailer is turned 90°. The actual distance required depends on trailer width and king pin location. As a rule of thumb, the distance from the back of the truck cab to the center of the rear truck axle should be approximately 4 inches greater than one-half the trailer width.
Approximately 15–25% of the trailer weight should be on the hitch (pin weight). The remaining 75–85% of the gross trailer weight should be distributed over the trailer axles. This distribution is critical for safe towing and proper vehicle handling.
Required tools include: 1/8-inch drill bit, 15/16-inch socket and open-end wrench, Torx T50IP bit (supplied with kit), 200 lb-ft torque wrench, rubber mallet, 2-3/4-inch hole saw, 21mm socket or open-end wrench, 19mm socket or open-end wrench, 1/2-inch drive swivel head ratchet, and 3/8-inch Allen wrench socket. A swivel head ratchet is specifically needed to access the front driver's side nut from over the frame.
Plastic drop-in bed liners must be removed before installation; they will be cut later during the installation process. Spray-in bed liners and bed mats less than 1/4 inch thick are compatible with normal installation instructions. For spray-in liners, consult the installer for the recommended curing time before cutting holes through the bed.
Yes. The manual states: 'To create clearance for inserting the rails remove passengers side bed bolts, loosen drivers side bed bolts with T50 torx bit (#14) (Figure 1), and block up passengers side bed.' Additionally, lifting the truck bed gives easier access to the driver's side nut and bolt when attaching frame brackets to the chassis frame. If extra clearance is needed, raise the rear of the truck high enough to allow the rear tires to hang down freely.
Yes. Drilling is required in two ways: (1) Drill 1/8-inch pilot holes in the truck bed at the outer dimpled locations shown in Figure 15, then use a 2-3/4-inch hole saw to cut holes at those pilot holes. The middle dimple is for the gooseneck only. (2) The frame brackets are bolted to existing holes in the chassis frame using M14 bolts. Before drilling, check for obstructions to prevent damage to fuel lines, brake lines, or structural members.
Use a 2-3/4-inch hole saw to cut holes in the truck bed at the locations marked by factory dimples. First drill 1/8-inch pilot holes at the outer dimpled locations (approximate dimensions shown in Figure 15), then use the hole saw to cut the final holes. The middle dimple is for the gooseneck only and should not be cut unless installing a gooseneck hitch. Optionally, spray undercoating around the 2-3/4-inch holes to prevent rusting.
Yes, if you have a drop-in plastic bed liner. The manual states: 'Plastic drop-in bed liners will be cut later. (See Figure 15)' You will cut rectangles out of the plastic removable bed liner to match the puck placement shown in Figure 15. Spray-in bed liners and bed mats less than 1/4 inch thick do not need to be cut and are compatible with normal installation.
The kit includes: (2) base rails, (1) frame bracket driver's side, (1) frame bracket passenger's side, (4) puck plugs, (4) 5/8-11 x 1-3/4 button head screws, (4) 5/8 lock washers, (4) pucks, (4) trim rings, (4) 5/8-11 Grade 8 hexhead nuts, (4) M14 x 1.5 x 45 bolts CL10.9, (12) 5/8 conical washers, (4) M14 x 1.5 flange nuts, (4) 5/8-11 x 1-3/4 Grade 8 hex head bolts, and (1) Torx T50 IP bit. Use only the supplied fasteners; do not substitute.
The two base rails are inserted from the passenger side rear wheel well above the frame, resting on both chassis frame rails. Step 16A: Insert the first rail from the passenger side rear wheel well above the frame, resting on both chassis frame rails. Step 16B: Slide the rail rearward, parallel with the axle, resting on both frame rails, and as close as possible to the rear hat channel. Step 16C: Insert the second rail from the passenger side rear wheel well above the frame, resting on both chassis frame rails. After installation, one rail should face rearward and the other forward, centered with both ends resting evenly on the frame. Rails should be inserted flat side up.
Torque specifications are: (1) 5/8-inch button head screws attaching pucks and trim rings to rails: 110 ft-lbs. (2) All 5/8-inch rail kit hex bolts: 150 ft-lbs (tighten first). (3) All M14 bolts: 140 ft-lbs (tighten after 5/8-inch bolts). (4) Bed bolts that were loosened during installation: 75 ft-lbs using Torx T50 bit. Do not lubricate bolt threads, as this may cause bolt failure.
Tighten bolts in this sequence: (1) Initially, attach all frame brackets and rails loosely (hand tight only). (2) Lower the bed and align it with the bolts and holes. (3) Attach pucks and trim rings, tightening the 5/8-inch button head screws to 110 ft-lbs. (4) Place the fifth wheel in the rail kit and secure in place. (5) Torque all 5/8-inch rail kit hex bolts to 150 ft-lbs first. (6) Then torque all M14 bolts to 140 ft-lbs. (7) Finally, torque the bed bolts that were loosened to 75 ft-lbs using the Torx T50 bit.
Rails should be inserted flat side up. After installation, one rail should face rearward and the other rail should face forward. The rails should be centered with both ends of each rail resting evenly on the frame.
The base rails are inserted at the location behind the forward hat channel. There are two hat channels supporting the truck bed over the rear wheel. The base rails will be inserted behind the forward (front) hat channel, as close as possible to the rear hat channel, while resting on both chassis frame rails.
Loosely attach frame brackets (#2 and #3) to the mounting kit rails using 5/8 x 1-3/4 inch long bolts (#10), conical washers (#11) placed below the bracket, conical washers (#11) placed inside the rail, and 5/8-inch nuts (#9) inside the rail. Tighten all mounting kit bolts to hand tight initially. Do not fully torque until after the bed is lowered and aligned.
Loosely attach the frame bracket to existing holes in the chassis frame using M14 1.5 x 45 bolts (#10), conical washers (#11), and flange nuts (#12). Tighten to hand tight initially. Lifting the truck bed gives easier access to the driver's side nut and bolt. Use a swivel head ratchet to access the front driver's side nut from over the frame. Do not fully torque until after the bed is lowered and aligned.
From the truck bed, attach pucks (#7) and trim rings (#8) to the rails using 5/8-inch button head screws (#5) and lock washers (#6) with a 3/8-inch Allen socket. Tighten to 110 ft-lbs torque. The puck placement locations are shown in Figure 14, with specific distances from the front of the truck bed shown in Figure 15.
If you must place any part of your body under the trailer or between the truck and trailer, you MUST perform ALL of the following steps: (1) Check that the truck transmission is in park. (2) Check that the emergency brake is on. (3) Block in front of and behind all trailer tires. (4) Check that the trailer landing gear are resting on firm ground. Additionally, avoid putting any part of your body under the trailer or between the truck and trailer, as unexpected or accidental movement can cause serious injury or death.
If the truck is raised, be sure that the truck is properly blocked and restrained to prevent the truck from falling. Failure to do so may result in the truck suddenly falling, causing death or serious injury. The manual also warns to be careful of the fuel fill line and wiring while lifting the truck bed.
Check for obstructions before drilling. Failure to do so could result in damaged fuel or brake lines, structural members, or other components. The manual states: 'CEQUENT PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, Inc. does its best to communicate tow vehicle manufacturer changes; however, it is ultimately the responsibility of the installer to prevent damage due to installation.'
Do not lubricate bolt threads. It may cause bolt failure. The manual explicitly warns: 'DO NOT lubricate bolt threads. It may cause bolt failure.'
Yes. If a lube plate is to be used with a REESE™ Elite® Fifth Wheel, it must be at least 12 inches in diameter. Cequent Performance Products, Inc. offers an optional lube plate as part number 83001.
The hitch is designed for use with recreational fifth wheel trailers only. The manual states: 'Cequent Performance Products, Inc. hitches are designed for use with recreational fifth wheel trailers only. Hitch applications other than recreational fifth wheel trailers must be approved in writing by the Cequent Performance Products, Inc. Engineering Department.'
After lowering the bed, align the bed, bolts, and holes for the pucks as needed. Then attach the pucks and trim rings to the rails, place the fifth wheel in the rail kit and secure it in place, and proceed with the torque sequence: first torque all 5/8-inch rail kit hex bolts to 150 ft-lbs, then torque all M14 bolts to 140 ft-lbs, and finally torque the bed bolts to 75 ft-lbs.
Before installation, always measure the truck and trailer to ensure there is clearance at the cab and at the bumper to allow for turns. After installation, replace any brake lines and spare tire that may have been removed or relocated. The manual emphasizes: 'Always measure truck and trailer before installing hitch to be sure that there is clearance at the cab and at the bumper to allow for turns.'
Yes, the 30126 is designed for 2011 Ford Super Duty F250/F350/F450 HD/SD with 6-foot or 8-foot beds. Do not install on beds shorter than 6 feet unless the trailer has a Sidewinder™ pin box.
Maximum gross trailer weight is 25,000 lb / 11,340 kg and maximum king pin weight is 6,250 lb / 2,835 kg. The actual limit is the lowest of: the hitch rating, your vehicle's manufacturer towing capacity, or your trailer's rating.
Yes. Drill 1/8-inch pilot holes in the truck bed at factory dimples, then use a 2-3/4-inch hole saw to cut the final holes. Check for fuel and brake lines before drilling.
Required tools: 1/8-inch drill bit, 2-3/4-inch hole saw, Torx T50 bit (supplied), 200 lb-ft torque wrench, 15/16-inch and 21mm and 19mm sockets, 1/2-inch swivel head ratchet, 3/8-inch Allen socket, and rubber mallet.
Yes. Remove passenger side bed bolts, loosen driver side bed bolts with the Torx T50 bit, and block up the passenger side bed to create clearance for inserting the rails.
Puck/trim ring screws: 110 ft-lbs. 5/8-inch rail bolts: 150 ft-lbs (first). M14 frame bolts: 140 ft-lbs (second). Bed bolts: 75 ft-lbs (last). Do not lubricate bolt threads.
Use only a SAE 2-inch kingpin. The hitch is designed exclusively for this size.
Yes, drop-in plastic bed liners must be removed and will be cut later. Spray-in liners and bed mats under 1/4 inch thick are compatible with normal installation.
The manual states that 'The rails should be centered with both ends of each rail resting evenly on the frame.' If the rails are not resting evenly, reposition them so that both ends of each rail contact the frame rails equally. Ensure one rail faces rearward and the other faces forward. The rails should be inserted flat side up and positioned as close as possible to the rear hat channel.
The manual instructs: 'Lower bed and align bed, bolts, and holes for pucks as needed.' If alignment is difficult, verify that the base rails are properly positioned and resting evenly on the frame. Adjust the rails if necessary before proceeding with puck attachment. Ensure the frame brackets are still hand-tight and can be adjusted slightly if needed.
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May 22, 2023
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