Why Would the Slider of a 5th Wheel Hitch Become Unlocked after Hard Braking
Question:
I have a less than year old Reese 16K fifth wheel Part#30051, recently during a hard braking incident the slider shifted into the unlocked position. Of course this caused some scary moments. I have towed my camper many times without problem. I now use a strap to ensure the shifter stays in place but know there must be something wrong to allow this to happen? Any suggestions on cause and what I should do to ensure it never happens again?
asked by: Bruce
Expert Reply:
There are a couple reasons why a slider hitch like your Reese 5th Wheel Slider part # RP30075 that you referenced would come unlocked and the hitch would slide after hard braking. The slider might not have been all the way locked into position.
The fifth wheel rails are not installed perfectly square in the bed of your truck and the slider isn't able to completely lock into place.
Finally, If you have the leg pins inserted from the outside of the hitch to the inside, with the keeper clip inside the legs, the slider lock will not work. The retaining pins must be inserted from the inside and the bent part pushed down flat, with the clips on the outside of the legs or the slider will not travel far enough for the lock to engage in the slide holes. If the leg pins are not inserted from the right direction and pushed down, you can think you have the slide locked but it is only jammed not locked.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Round Tube Slider - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs
- Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Sliding Fifth Wheel
- Above Bed Rails
- 4000 lbs Vertical Load
- 16000 lbs GTW
- Double Pivot
- Standard - Double Jaw
- 15 - 18 Inch Tall
- 11 Inch Fore/Aft Travel
- Reese
more information >
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