Demco
18K Autoslide
18K lbs
Max Trailer Weight
4.5K lbs
Max Pin Weight
Our Assessment
Stupid Simple Score
DIY or Pro?
Installation
Availability
Where to Buy
Requires
OE Puck System
Expert Take
An 18K Autoslide puck-mount aimed at short-bed owners who want auto cab-clearance without manual sliding. Solid value for the auto-slide feature, but it's heavier to mount than a fixed head and ride quality is middling.
About This Product
The Reese Autoslide 18K is the lighter-capacity version of their automatic sliding hitch. Eighteen thousand pounds of towing with hands-free slide operation. For short bed trucks where cab clearance is a constant concern, this solves the problem automatically.
Same mechanical sliding system as the 21K - turning forces activate the slide, no manual intervention needed. If your trailer is under 18,000 pounds, this saves money while delivering identical sliding performance.
Most mid-size fifth wheels fall well under this capacity. No reason to pay for ratings you will never use.
Installation is more involved than fixed hitches. The sliding mechanism requires careful setup. Have a shop do it if you prefer, or budget extra time for DIY. Once in, maintenance is minimal.
For short bed trucks with factory pucks. Long beds do not need sliders - stick with a fixed hitch and save the complexity.
Compatibility
Fits These Trucks
RAM
| Model | Years | Bed Length | Bed Prep | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2500 | 2013 - Present | Short Bed | Puck System | All options → |
| 3500 | 2013 - Present | Short Bed | Puck System | All options → |
Compare Options
Related Products
B&W
25K Companion
Weight Rating
25,000 lbs
Head Type
fixed
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$1,399
PullRite
24K SuperGlide
The 24K SuperGlide is the gold standard for short-bed trucks, automatically sliding the hitch back when you turn so the trailer clears the cab without you touching a thing. It drops into factory pucks and tows incredibly smooth; the auto-slide mechanism is the trade you make on a slightly fussier install.
Weight Rating
24,000 lbs
Head Type
auto sliding
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$2,505
B&W
20K Companion Slider
A 20K sliding Companion aimed at short-bed owners who need extra turning clearance between cab and trailer. The slider adds a step at install and a manual move before sharp turns, but the head still tows cushioned and quiet.
Weight Rating
20,000 lbs
Head Type
sliding
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$1,699
PullRite
25K OEX Super 5th
A 25K OEX Super 5th fixed head for puck-equipped trucks, delivering the full-strength build and minimal chucking PullRite is known for. Great capability and a tidy puck install, but it sits at the premium end of the price range.
Weight Rating
25,000 lbs
Head Type
fixed
Mount
OE Fifth Wheel
MSRP
$1,648
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
The 18K Autoslide is compatible with RAM trucks from 2013 to 2026. Use the fitment table above for the complete list of compatible year, model, and bed configurations.
The 18K Autoslide is rated for 18,000 lbs gross trailer weight (GTW) and 4,500 lbs vertical trailer weight (VTW — the pin weight your truck carries). Always verify your truck's tow rating before purchasing.
This hitch is considered DIY-friendly — most owners can install it with basic tools.
The 18K Autoslide is available from Demco directly. Use the "Where to Buy" buttons above for current pricing and availability.
This is the benchmark 25K puck-mount Companion that every other fifth wheel gets measured against. It drops into factory pucks, pops out with a lever when you want your bed back, and tows dead quiet thanks to the cushioned, fully-articulating head.