Solutions for Trailer Pin Box Hitting Side Walls on 2017 GMC 3500HD  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the pin box itself is coming into contact with your Sierra 3500's side walls, there are a couple of possible solutions that can remedy this issue.

First, we do have some available 5th-wheel hitches with a higher maximum setting than the 17 inches you mentioned in your question. For example, if your 2017 GMC Sierra has a 6-1/2 foot bed, the Curt Q24 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ R24 Slider # C16546 has a maximum hitch height adjustment of 21-1/2 inches. If your truck has an 8 foot bed, the fixed Husky Silver Series 26K # HT31318-31325 has a 19-3/4 inch maximum hitch height. Both of these hitches are compatible with standard, above-bed rails. If this is what you currently have installed on your truck, you will be able to use either of these options with your existing rails and hardware.

Another possible solution is to replace the pin box on your trailer with a Sidewinder pin box. Sidewinder pin boxes will change the pivot point from the fifth wheel hitch to the turret, which attaches to the mounting brackets on the trailer. The pin box itself stays in place and only the trailer rotates, leaving the sides of your truck safe from contact.

Sidewinder pin boxes such as the 16,000 pound # RP34FR are designed to replace specific OEM pin boxes. There should be a model number located somewhere on your existing pin box. I have attached a helpful article on Sidewinders in which a chart is present that will help you determine which Sidewinder Pin Box you will need depending on the existing model number pin box for your trailer.

expert reply by: Chris R

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