The B&W Companion Model 3500 is a high-capacity fifth wheel hitch system designed for heavy-duty towing applications. With a gross trailer weight rating of 20,000 pounds and a tongue weight rating of 5,000 pounds, it is engineered for use with full-size trucks, including Ram 3500 dually models. The installation process involves assembling the hitch base and coupler, ensuring proper orientation of pivot arms, and securing all hardware to meet torque specifications. The system is compatible with B&W gooseneck hitch platforms and utilizes a puck-based mounting system developed for modern fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing prep packages offered by major manufacturers such as Ram, Ford, and GM. This guide compiles key technical specifications, installation procedures, and safety warnings from multiple official sources to provide a comprehensive overview for users preparing to install the B&W Companion 3500.
Key Specifications and System Overview
The B&W Companion Model 3500 is a modular hitch system composed of two primary components: the hitch base and the coupler. According to manufacturer documentation, the hitch base weighs approximately 129 to 131 pounds, while the coupler weighs between 70 and 75 pounds. The total gross trailer weight rating is 20,000 pounds, and the tongue weight rating is 5,000 pounds. These ratings are critical to ensure safe operation and must not be exceeded under any circumstances. The system is designed for use with trucks equipped with a B&W gooseneck hitch, and it cannot be used with a factory puck system unless paired with the appropriate adapter (e.g., part number RVK3670).
The hitch base is engineered to mount directly into the truck bed using a puck-based system. This system eliminates the need for permanent mounting rails and allows for quick installation and removal of the hitch. The puck layout varies by truck manufacturer, so it is essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper placement and orientation. The coupler, which connects to the fifth wheel trailer’s king pin, features a cam handle mechanism for securing the connection. Proper lubrication of the coupler jaws is recommended to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear over time.
Installation Preparation and Tools Required
Before beginning the installation process, users must ensure they have all necessary tools and materials. According to the instruction manual, the following items are typically required:
- A set of metric and standard wrenches or a socket set
- A 7/32" Allen wrench for securing the coupler handle
- A torque wrench to verify bolt tightness
- Lucas Oil X-tra Heavy Duty Grease or a similar automotive chassis grease for lubricating the coupler jaws
- A measuring tape or ruler for alignment and clearance checks
The hitch base and coupler are delivered in separate packaging and must be assembled according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The instruction sheet included in the kit provides a visual reference for the orientation of the pivot arms and bolt placement. It is recommended to perform a dry run of the installation in a controlled environment before mounting the hitch in the truck bed to ensure all components fit correctly and function as intended.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
The installation of the B&W Companion 3500 involves several key steps, each of which must be performed with precision to ensure proper function and safety. The following outline is based on the official installation instructions and verified user reports:
Mounting the Hitch Base
The hitch base is installed into the truck bed using the puck system. The base features four mounting legs that fit into the four corner pucks, and a fifth puck is used to secure the hitch post. The orientation of the base depends on the truck model and the position of the axles. For the Ram 3500 dually long bed, the shallower slope of the pivot arms is positioned toward the cab of the truck. This orientation ensures proper clearance between the trailer and the truck bed.Adjusting the Pivot Arm Height
The hitch base includes five possible hole positions for the bolts securing the pivot arms. These holes allow users to adjust the height of the pivot arms and, consequently, the gap between the trailer overhang and the truck bed. For initial installations, it is recommended to use the middle setting. This allows for proper alignment while providing room for adjustments if needed.Securing the Pivot Arms
Each pivot arm is secured using a pair of bolts and lock washers. These bolts must be tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque rating to ensure the hitch remains stable during towing. Users should verify the torque specifications in the instruction manual and use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightness.Attaching the Coupler
The coupler is mounted onto the hitch base and connected using the cam handle mechanism. The handle is secured with two button head cap screws, which are tightened using a 7/32" Allen wrench. The coupler also includes a safety pin to keep the handle in the open or closed position. Proper alignment of the coupler is essential to ensure a secure connection with the trailer’s king pin.Lubricating the Coupler Jaws
Before initial use, the inside of the coupler jaws should be lubricated with Lucas Oil X-tra Heavy Duty Grease or a similar product. This helps to reduce friction, prevent wear, and ensure smooth operation. The amount of grease applied should be sufficient to coat the inner surfaces without excess buildup.Final Inspection and Test Fit
Once the hitch is fully assembled and mounted, a visual inspection should be performed to verify that all bolts are tightened to the correct torque and that the coupler is properly aligned. A test fit with the trailer is recommended to ensure the connection is secure and that there is no binding or misalignment. If any issues are detected, the installation should be adjusted before towing.
Safety Warnings and Precautions
The manufacturer provides several critical safety warnings that must be heeded during and after installation. These include:
- Do not modify the product in any manner. Altering the hitch or its components can compromise structural integrity and lead to failure during use.
- Do not exceed the rated trailer or tongue weight limits. Exceeding these ratings can cause damage to the hitch, truck, or trailer and may result in loss of control or detachment.
- Regularly inspect all bolted connections. A visual inspection should be performed before each towing session to ensure all hardware remains secure and at the correct torque.
- Read all instructions and labels. Failure to follow the installation and operating instructions can result in serious injury or death.
- Do not use the hitch with unauthorized modifications or incompatible systems. The hitch is designed to work only with B&W gooseneck hitches and approved puck systems. Using it with a factory puck system or a non-B&W gooseneck hitch requires additional components, such as part number RVK3670.
Users should also be aware of the risks associated with towing in general. The manufacturer references "The Trailer Handbook: A Guide to Understanding Trailer and Towing Safety" from the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) as a resource for understanding the potential hazards of towing and how to mitigate them.
Compatibility and System Requirements
The B&W Companion 3500 is specifically designed to work with trucks equipped with a B&W gooseneck hitch. This includes both factory-installed and aftermarket systems. It is not compatible with standard puck systems unless paired with the appropriate adapter. For example, the RVK3670 adapter is required for use with the Dodge puck system. The manufacturer also notes that the hitch is not compatible with the factory puck system unless the user has already installed a B&W gooseneck hitch and is using the correct adapter.
For trucks equipped with the fifth-wheel and gooseneck towing prep packages from Ram, Ford, or GM, the B&W Companion system can be installed using the existing puck system. The hitch base features four legs that mount into the four corner pucks and a fifth puck for the hitch post. The specific layout of the pucks may vary by manufacturer, so users should consult the instruction manual and verify the correct orientation for their truck model.
The system is also designed to be easily removable, allowing users to remove the hitch when not in use and restore the truck bed to a flat, unobstructed state. This is a key feature of modern puck-based systems and offers greater flexibility compared to traditional rail-based fifth-wheel hitches.
Maintenance and Long-Term Use
After installation, regular maintenance is essential to ensure the hitch continues to function safely and efficiently. The following maintenance tasks should be performed periodically:
- Lubricate the coupler jaws. Reapply Lucas Oil X-tra Heavy Duty Grease or a similar product after extended use or if the hitch is exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- Inspect all bolted connections. Use a torque wrench to verify that all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. A visual inspection should be performed before each towing session.
- Check for wear or damage. Look for signs of wear, corrosion, or deformation in the hitch base, pivot arms, and coupler. Replace any damaged components immediately.
- Verify proper clearance. Ensure that the gap between the trailer overhang and the truck bed is sufficient to allow for smooth turning and maneuvering. Adjust the pivot arm height if necessary.
Users should also be aware of the potential need for a king pin to gooseneck conversion if they are using a gooseneck trailer. The manufacturer recommends consulting with a certified dealer or technician if this conversion is necessary.
Conclusion
The B&W Companion Model 3500 is a high-performance fifth-wheel hitch system designed for heavy-duty towing applications. With a gross trailer weight rating of 20,000 pounds and a tongue weight rating of 5,000 pounds, it is suitable for use with full-size trucks, including Ram 3500 dually models. The system is compatible with B&W gooseneck hitches and utilizes a puck-based mounting system for quick installation and removal. Proper installation requires attention to detail, including correct orientation of the pivot arms, secure tightening of all bolts, and lubrication of the coupler jaws. Users must also adhere to all safety warnings and regular maintenance practices to ensure safe and reliable operation. By following the manufacturer’s guidelines and using the appropriate tools and materials, users can ensure a successful installation and years of dependable performance.