I've pretty much settled on the new PullRite 14k SuperGlide hitch to go with my new fiver. The only drilling required is four 1-3/4" diameter clearance holes through the bed. They are too big to fall entirely within one rib. With a good quality hole saw, is it possible to cut nice clean holes? Or do the uneven ribs tend to grab and bind the saw leaving jagged edges? I only have one shot at this, so any tips from those who have actually done it would be much appreciated. Thanks, guys!

 

when i cut the 4" hole for my B&W, i ran the hole saw backwards most of the way. that made it easier on the ribs and cut the hole nicely. HTH

 

Three years ago I had a 15K Pullrite with super rails installed. I read the instructions on the internet very carefully. The 5th wheel dealer had not installed a pullrite and he was about to drill the holes at the wrong locations.
I stopped him and mentioned the instructions said to put masking tape on the hitch plate under the bed and then drill a small hole to see if it's in the correct location. This method looked good and saved me from having extra set of big holes in the bed.

Good luck.

 

To keep the bit from "walking", clamp an appropriate sized piece of scrap plywood over where you want the hole.

Drill through the plywood and into the bed-metal.

The hole in the plywood will prevent the bit from going anywhere but where you want it to.

 

I've done the same as Bearkiller.

Drill your 1-3/4 hole in a piece of plywood. Center the plywood "hole" over the pilot hole in the bed using the center bit on your holesaw. Stand on the plywood and drill away, perfect hole everytime.

We use this method when we have to drill an absolute perfect hole in hardwood floors or something like that (I'm a finishing carpenter) I've done it many many times in other materials and such. Has worked every time.

Jeff

 

Use a new hole saw and some cutting oil. Also, run the drill on a slower speed. Don't forget to file the edges and touch up with a spray primer to avoid rust.