Safety and Ride Quality When Using a 5th Airborne Sidewinder on a 5th Wheel Trailer
Question:
Is this product designed to eliminate the need for a slider in your shortbed truck? Does it puch too much stress on the trailer? And how safe is it? Does it affect ride quality?
asked by: Jon
Expert Reply:
A Sidewinder, like # 5AS16K, should be used when a slider trailer hitch does not offer enough clearance to safely make 90 degree turns. It provides 22 inches of clearance, 10 more inches than a round tube slider hitch. Sidewinder arms are designed to work with a rotating turret, like # RP61302. The correct turret depends on the trailer pin box make and model.
The use of a Sidewinder will put some extra stress on the trailer frame. You will need to contact the trailer manufacturer to determine if a Sidewinder can be used. Sidewinders are very safe to use when properly installed and maintained like you would with any trailering part. I have included a link to the installation details for reference.
The ride you will experience depends on many factors including the truck, the suspension, the trailer, and all other components in the towing system. Basically, if your ride quality is fine without a Sidewinder, it will be about the same with one. For the best ride, I recommend using a 5th Airborne Premium Fifth Wheel Air Ride Coupler with the Sidewinder. This will reduce chucking by nearly 60 percent and vertical shock by 44 percent.
In order to find the correct fit for your trailer, you can use the matrix on the bottom of the FAQ article on Sidewinders I have linked for reference.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
5th Airborne Premium 5th Wheel Air Ride King Pin with Sidewinder - No Turret - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel King Pin
- Upgraded Pin Box
- Absorbs Road Shock and Reduces Chucking
- Provides Turning Clearance
- 16000 lbs GTW
- No Turret
- Reese
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