Can a Sidewinder Pin Box be Used w/Demco 5th Wheel Adapter for B&W Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitches

Question:

Demco 5th Wheel Base Rails Adapter for BandW Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch says that it is not compatible with automatic sliding fifth-wheel trailer hitches... How about a Reese Sidewinder?

asked by: Hil P

Expert Reply:

I do not recommend using a Sidewinder with adapter # DM6140. The problem is with either a Sidewinder or auto-sliding hitch it takes considerable force to either make the Sidewinder turret rotate or the auto-slide hitch to pivot so it can slide back. This force is transferred to the connection point on the vehicle. Since the adapter is only secured to a single point in the middle the forces applied to it can cause the whole adapter to rotate which would damage the parts of the gooseneck hitch under the truck bed.

The best option is to use a manual slider hitch either directly in the gooseneck ball hole or one designed for above the bed rails if you use the adapter. For a direct fit for a B&W Turnover Ball gooseneck hitch you can use the Companion # BWRVK3400-5W.

For a slider that will fit the adapter the Curt A-20 # C16541 is an excellent option. It is rated for 20,000 pounds and has a cushioned head for improved ride quality.

expert reply by: Michael H