Recommendation for Pin Box Replacement Versus Hitch Modifications
Question:
I purchased a new 5th wheel last summer and it came equipped with a Trailair Rota-Flex Pin Box Lippert 1621 18K. I am towing with a 2005 long box Duramax not dual and using an Andersen Ultimate 5th wheel hitch over a BandW roll-over goose neck ball in the truck box. The Trailair Rota-Flex pin box is very nearly horizontal, and is long to the point where the back of the pin box contacts the side of my pickup box limiting my turn radius severely. Even with the upper ball on the Andersen hitch in its highest height setting, I cannot turn sharply. From what I can determine, the height of the ball on the Andersen hitch and range of adjustment is the same as the more traditional platform fifth wheel hitches, so it does not appear to me that a different hitch for the pickup is the answer. I am looking at various solutions, such as a replacement high rise ball for the BandW rollover ball in the floor of the pickup, This would permit me to place a thick pad under the Andersen hitch effectively raising the top ball height to permit clearance for the pin box to swing. The high rise BandW ball reduces the rating from 30,000 to 20,000 GTW. My trailer weighs less than 14,000 fully loaded. Having read through several of your QandAs, I am wondering if the root of the problem is that I have the wrong pin box style for my trailer using the long box pickup. From what I can glean from photos of the Trailair Flex-air replacement pin box, it does not appear to be nearly as horizontal from the vertical mounting plates on the trailer to the kingpin. I definitely notice an improvement between the ride with the Rota-Flex versus a standard kingpin on my earlier 5th wheel and the same Andersen hitch, so would like to solve the pin box clearance problem with a cushioned kingpin of some sort. Suggestions?
asked by: Alan H
Expert Reply:
First thing I need to inform you about is that Trailair doesn't recommend that the Rota-Flex Pin Box be used with any type of gooseneck adapter. None of the cushioned pin boxes should be used with a gooseneck adapter. To work properly the unit needs a solid surface to flex forward and rearward, but I can help you find a better solution to your clearance issue.
Since the side walls of your 2005 Chevrolet Silverado Duramax are coming into contact with your trailer, we need to find a safer towing solution. My recommendation and most cost effective solution for your situation would be to get the B&W Companion Hitch # BWRVK3500-5W, this will give you the turning clearance you are looking for and will work with your current B&W gooseneck ball. It may seem like you need more height for clearance, but what you are really having issues with is because the adapter block on the Andersen Hitch is extending your king pin distance to more than half the distance of your truck bed.
You can verify the turning clearance by measuring from the center of the gooseneck ball hole to one of the sides, and if that is less than 28 inches then your will clear the side of the bed.
I have linked a video of the Companion being installed for your convenience.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Fixed Fifth Wheel
- Aftermarket Below Bed Rails
- 5000 lbs Vertical Load
- 20000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 16-1/4 - 18-1/4 Inch Tall
- B and W
more information >
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