Recommended Suspension Enhancement for 2017 Ram 2500 to Improve 5th Wheel Towing
Question:
I have a 2019 Grand Design 295RL, that uses the Turning point pin box. We are not USING the turning point feature and would like to reduce the chucking we get between the 5th wheel and our 2017 RAM 2500. We are also using the Blue Ox 7200 hitch. Ive looked into replacing the pin box but was told by Lippert there is no replacement available. So, if no replacement is available what are my options to reduce chucking as much as possible. 5th wheel suspension upgrades? 5th wheel shocks? Different Hitch? Other? Please advise. Thanks.
asked by: David H
Helpful Expert Reply:
Thank you for the photo of your Ram 2500 and Grand Design 5th wheel and for all the details about your towing setup. I spoke to tech staff at both Blue Ox and Lippert and I have some information to pass along to you.
First, the Turning Point pivoting pin box cannot be replaced by another because it is integrated into the frame of your Grand Design. Unlike other pin boxes that bolt on (and come off) the Turning Point is there for the life of the trailer.
The Blue Ox Super Ride 20K hitch BXR7200 is a cushioned type that uses 4 Sumo rubber springs to absorb shock and it also offers 11-inches of articulated travel for improved turning clearance between the truck cab and the trailer overhang, similar to a slider hitch. These springs in the hitch do not offer any user adjustment so there is no way to adjust stiffness.
So, your best option for improving ride quality is to install rear axle air bags to help absorb some of the roughness from the trailer's momentum tugging on the truck. Firestone spring kit # F2706 and compressor kit # F2097 together will allow you to adjust the air springs by feel as you tow to find the best pressure for any given driving conditions. I recommend you do this before trying a different hitch. If you still the need you can replace the Blue Ox later on. Install and review videos for these Firestone kits are linked for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Firestone Air Command Heavy Duty Air Compressor - Analog - Single Path
- Air Suspension Compressor Kit
- Wired Control
- Single Path
- Analog Display
- 150 psi
- Firestone
more information >
Firestone Ride-Rite Red Label Extreme Duty Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Air Springs
- Extra Heavy Duty
- Firestone
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Flex Air 5th Wheel Pin Box - Lippert 1621 - 18,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel King Pin
- Upgraded Pin Box
- Absorbs Road Shock and Reduces Chucking
- 18000 lbs GTW
- Fixed Turret
- Lippert 1621
- CURT
more information >
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