Can a Sidewinder Pin Box be Used with a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab Short Bed  

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Expert Reply:

It is actually required that you use a sidewinder pin box on your fifth wheel trailer if your truck has a bed shorter than 6 feet like your 2012 Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab because a sidewinder pin box provides the most possible clearance to safely execute sharp turns.

To use the sidewinder with your truck you would just need to add a fixed fifth wheel hitch, base rails and brackets. Since you have a 5 foot 8 inch bed, I assume you have a 1500 Crew Cab model. If you do not already have a fifth wheel hitch installed in your truck, then I would recommend looking at the Reese 20K Fifth Wheel Hitch, # RP30928, and the Custom Installation Kit, # RP50064-58. I have attached the installation instructions as well as an installation video on a 2011 Silverado Crew Cab Short Bed for you to check out.

Determining the correct sidewinder pin box for your fifth wheel trailer depends on the make and model number of the pin box on your trailer. The pin box number will typically be located on a sticker or stamping on the OEM pin box. You should also contact the trailer manufacturer to make sure the trailer frame can withstand the stress of a Sidewinder. Not all fifth wheel trailers allow the use of a sidewinder pin box.

I have attached a link to a sidewinder FAQ article that lists the correct sidewinder for OEM pin box models. You can also send me the make and model number of your pin box and I can recommend the correct sidewinder for you.

The # RP30928 will also require the Wedge Kit # RP44FR to prevent the king pin from pivoting in the jaws of the hitch.

expert reply by: John H

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