Why did you begin offering the Companion OEM?
Over the years, we've watched a few aftermarket products get picked up by the Big 3 as factory installed add-ons. These options are often offered by vehicle manufacturers to boost their margins. Back in 2010, Ford started rolling out trucks with towing prep packages with the goal of taking gooseneck and fifth-wheel hitches in that same direction. GM and Ram followed soon after with their own 'puck' style platforms.
Generally, the buyer will decide whether they are in favor of this or not. What we kept hearing, though, is that some would get a truck unaware that it had the factory prep package. Others say they felt boxed into getting it because just about every truck on the lot came with it. It’s frustrating when something’s called an “option” but doesn’t really feel like it.
Since the OEM fifth-wheel hitches come with a steep price tag, and plenty of folks asked for a Companion that would work with the factory systems, we made it happen. The Companion OEM has the same coupler that’s proven itself over the years, but the base is designed to lock securely into the puck platforms found in newer Ford, GM, and Ram trucks. Just like every B&W hitch, all Companion OEM models are built to the same high standards you’ve come to expect.
