How to Use a Sidewinder with a B and W Companion Hitch

Question:

I presently have a BandW turnover ball hitch in my 2011 Dodge 2500 PU with a 6 ft bed and I want to use it to tow my 5th wheel trailer with a Reese sidewinder pin box. I have a BandW Companion 5th wheel trailer hitch but I understand 2 additional 1/2inch bolts should be used to stabilize the hitch - how and where should these be placed?

asked by: Wayne W

Expert Reply:

Actually the recommendation for adding bolts to the B and W hitches so that they can be used with a Sidewinder has recently changed. We spoke to our contact at B and W and they informed us that doing that will void the warranty of the hitch.

What you will need to do is lock out the Sidewinder you have on your trailer. You will then need to install two 3/4 inch X 5-1/2 inch grade 5 bolts washers lock washers and nuts in the location at the rear of the turret, see photo. Once these bolts are installed the king pin will rotate in the normal position in the fifth-wheel hitch.

Once the Sidewinder is locked out you can use your Companion hitch. I hope it is a slider hitch so that you will have the clearance needed to make sharp turns like the # BWRVK3400.

expert reply by: Jameson C