Can You Use A Lower Rated Pin Box If It Still Exceeds The GVWR Of The Trailer

Question:

I have an 18000 pound rated trailair pin box to put on my 2022 cedar creek 311rl. The factory box is 21000 rated, the trailer gross weight is 16500. Will this be ok to install?

asked by: Jon B

Expert Reply:

If the GVWR of your trailer really is 16,500lbs then technically yes, you would be able to use the lower rated Curt Flex Air 5th Wheel Pin Box # LC328492.

That being said, manufacturers only recommend using 80-85% of the total weight capacity, which at 18,000lbs would be 14-15k. Without that 15-20% safety margin you run the risk of something failing and in the event of a breakaway the insurance company is going to look for any excuse to not cover you.

To avoid all of that and maintain a safe margin I recommend going with the Curt Flex Air 5th Wheel Pin Box # LC369535. Since this pin box has higher rated components it will be able to handle the stress of the trailer better than the lower rated # LC328492.

expert reply by: Kevin C