Is a Sidewinder Pin Box Needed When Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer with a 2016 Ford F-150 5-1/2 foot Bed

Question:

Purchasing a KZ 5th wheel. Dealer is telling me to move up to the sidewinder pinbox. For turning radius. Will the 5th airborne sidewinder give me the same advantage in the turn? Also is it worth it to move up to this box? Last, I hope, will I still have to worry about clearance with either of these boxes. They have recommended the Demco Recon hitch Thanks

asked by: A N

Expert Reply:

Since your 2016 Ford F-150 has the 5-1/2 foot bed a Sidewinder pin box, like part # RP34FR for a 1621 pin box, is really your only option since a sliding 5th wheel hitch will not give you enough clearance for tight turns. The 5th Airborne Premium Sidewinder # RP61422, for a 1621 pin box, is an upgraded version of the Sidewinder that provides more comfort for your ride. If you can confirm the pin box number currently on your trailer I can recommend the correct replacement for you.

The Demco Recon # DM8550043 is a great 5th wheel hitch to use with the 5th Airborne Sidewinder! You will just need to use the Custom Wedge # SWW-05 to make them compatible with each other since the included universal wedge will not fit properly.

This hitch actually weighs under 100 lbs so it is easily removed when you are not towing your trailer. If you need base rails I recommend installing the Demco Kit # DM8552028-71 which gives you industry standard base rails.

If you do not already have a 7-Way mounted in the bed of your F-150 then I also recommend installing the Hopkins # 41157 to make connecting and disconnecting your trailer easier.

I have attached some videos for you to reference as well.