How to Determine if Sidewinder Pin Box Replacement Will Fit Trailer
Question:
I have a f150 crew cab short box 5 1/2 bed. I bought a 1999 coleman 5th wheel. I found a sidewinder hitch, used, for sale. The model number is not legible. I believe the max weight says 16000. The trailer weighs 6500. If the sidewinder fits on the 5th wheel will it be sufficient? Im assuming if it bolts on it should work, am i wrong? I will be using a standard hitch and rails. Ive considered the slider hitch, but i can but the sidewinder just as cheap as the slider so thats where im up in the air about. Sidewinder or slider? Any imput would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
asked by: Rusty
Expert Reply:
Sidewinders are the way to go for 5-1/2 foot beds since they provide the extra turning clearance you'll need over a slider hitch. The issue is that Sidewinders are very specfic in what trailers they fit. Not all pin boxes are the same so you'll have to verify that the Sidewinder you found is the correct one for your trailer.
There should be a sticker or a stamping on the OEM pin box of the trailer that will list the pin box number that is on the trailer.
Once you figure out which pin box you have you can check the FAQ I attached that has a chart that shows the correct Sidewinder to get based on which pin box you have. For example the # RP61412 will fit a Lippert 1116 or 1716 bolt pattern.
If you cannot find the number you can use the measurements of the bolt holes of the pin box to determine which one you have. I attached an FAQ on how to do this for you to check out also.
