Is Sidewinder Pin Box on 5th Wheel Trailer Required for Truck With 5-1/2 Foot Bed

Question:

I thought I wanted to purchase a 5th wheel camper. I have a 2014 Toyota Tundra, 5.7 ltr. CREWMAX. with the 5.5 ft box. My local dealer is recommending using the Sidewinder with my Reese 16k slider. Your opinion?

asked by: Mark N

Expert Reply:

Your local dealer is 100% correct, though he shouldn't have just been recommending it, he should have told that you can't tow a 5th wheel trailer with a truck with a 5-1/2 foot bed unless you have a Sidewinder. Without a Sidewinder pushing the pivot point back 22 inches, a 5th wheel would crash into the cab of your Tundra.

To find the correct Sidewinder what you will need to know is the manufacturer and model number of the pin box on your fifth wheel and match that with the correct replacement. For example, Sidewinder # RP34FR will replace Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD, as well as Fabex PB 600 Series.

Keep in mind that with a sliding hitch you will want to keep the slider locked out to use a Sidewinder, and that a hitch will need to utilize a wedge to get the best fit with a Sidewinder. For example, the Sidewinder Wedge Kit # 30850 is designed for Reese/Pro Series 15K, 16K and 20K 5th wheel hitches manufactured after 2009.

I have added a link to our entire selection of Sidewinders and wedges for you to take a look at as well as a help article on Sidewinders you may find useful.

expert reply by: Kyle S