Troubleshooting A Curt R20 Roller Base That Keeps Getting Stuck

Question:

I have this mounted in a 2007 Ram 3500 short box. I have problems with the slide release lever sometimes not pulling out to release the slide, like its locked. I have disassembled the hitch, lubed where it should and reassembled, torquing to specs. Today, without trailer attached, the slide release lever again wouldnt pull out. I went to the other side and wiggled the hitch and that allowed the lever to be pulled out. Whats happening with this?

asked by: Keith D

Expert Reply:

Hey Keith,

The slider base for your Curt A20 5th Wheel Hitch # C16541 is just a couple of rods with two notches cut out of them for the hitch to lock into. If it's getting stuck and wiggling the hitch loosens it then the spring in the release handle could be worn out or the notches could be rounded out a bit allowing the hitch to pinch up against the edge of the notch and prevent the handle from releasing.

Aside from proper lubrication with a white lithium grease to help with binding up there isn't much you can do aside from replacement. I recommend removing the cover and getting access to the slide release. You can inspect the spring and then remove the bolt holding the driver's side and passenger's side of the release handle together. You can then slide both side out and grease the blocks that slide into the notches of the roller base. See if the edges of the block or notches are starting to get rounded. If so you'll need to replace the base with part # C63DR.

expert reply by: Kevin C

R20 Roller Base
(click to enlarge)

Keith

3/12/2024

Thanks Kevin, Hitch was new last September. As stated, I dismantled the entire hitch a month ago and greased the rod with white lithium. Feels like it rattles some in place as does the hitch on the slides. I contacted Curt but all they could say is it sounds like it's binding.