Can the Slide Base On a Reese Elite 5th Wheel Hitch Be Replaced

Question:

I have spoken to Reese technical support about my Elite RE18 slider fifth wheel hitch becuase the base rail assembly part # 30070 is bent. They have informed me that part is no longer in production and is unavailable through them. Is your company able to acquire the left and right rail tubes? If so, what would the total cost be? If not, I will need to replace the hitch with either the same or comparable. Would you please provide some replacement suggestions and associated costs.

asked by: Thomas

Expert Reply:

I do have an option for you but the Reese Elite Series Slider Base part RP30070 as you have come to find out is no longer available through the manufacturer or other vendors such as ourselves. That said, the cost of replacing this base if it were even available is going to be about the same as a new 5th wheel hitch so that should lighten the blow a bit. This is also an excellent time to upgrade.

I recommend the Curt 5th Wheel Round Tube Slider Base part # C16020 with the Head Unit for Curt A20 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch part # C16540. The A-Series is one of my favorites because of the 1" thick dual interlocking jaw system that forms a very tight grip on the kingpin and works to reduce chucking/jarring much more than the wraparound jaw on your Reese Elite. The head can also be removed with one pin which makes for removing and installing the hitch much easier.

expert reply by: Conner L