Recommended Replacement Pin Box for 5th Wheel Towed By 5-1/2 Foot Bed Truck

Question:

I need a Sidewinder to replace the Lippert 1621 pinbox on my fifth wheel, as I want to tow with a short bed truck-5-1/2 foot bed. Should I use the Sidewinder or the Sidewinder with the airbag?

asked by: Wendy I

Expert Reply:

Either the # RP61422 Air Ride or the standard # RP34FR would be compatible with your Lippert 1621 pin box. Both have a 16,000 lb capacity. Both replacement pin boxes will move the pivot point between the hitch and the pin box 22 inches rearward which will increase the clearance between the front of the trailer loft and the rear of the truck cab. The main difference you'd experience between the two is that the air bag included on the # RP61422 Air Ride Sidewinder will dramatically increase the ride quality you experience. The air bag will isolate the tow vehicle from much of the road shock, bouncing and chucking transmitted by the 5th wheel.

For that reason, I'd recommend the # RP61422 Air Ride Sidewinder. You can see our FAQ article about the Sidewinder by clicking the provided link.

expert reply by: Mike L