Why Would Reese Revolution/Sidewinder Get Difficult to Latch and Release

Question:

I have a revolution kingpin on my Rockwood 8299BS and it seems to be very difficult for it to latch with my 16k Reese hitch. I have placed it where it is level with the kingpin, as well as had the hitch lift the trailer slightly. It takes a lot of effort to get this to latch. When I first latched it, it was very smooth and latch easily. But now it is getting difficult. What could have happened?

asked by: Glenn S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Difficulty hooking/unhooking a 5th wheel trailer when using a Sidewinder pin box is usually related to the positioning of the wedge. Basically what happens is when the wedge is installed some people install it too tight to the hitch funnel. When you install the wedge it just needs to touch the funnel sides and not be forced in beyond that.

Also, if you are using the universal wedge you might want to consider the custom wedge for your hitch. You have the standard Reese 16K hitch so the wedge for it is # 30850.

Aside from that check to make sure the jaw and head of the hitch are properly lubricated.

expert reply by: Jameson C