Replacement 5th Wheel Lube Plate for Use with Reese Sidewinder Pin Box # RP34FR

Question:

I purchased a sidewinder from you this past August which I had installed by the trailer dealer. I believe the part number was P/N RP34FR. The way that they installed it is causing the ears from the pin box mounting bracket to rub across the top of the sidewinder and rock the trailer. Im going to make an adjustment, but think that Ill need a new Lube Plate because the ears have ripped the corners off the existing one and Im concerned that it may have further damage that I cant see, so Id like to have the part available when I disassemble the turret. I am trying to locate that part on your website, but cant find it. Is that part available? If so, can you send me the part number? The item is listed as detail # 2 in the exploded view of the installation instructions.

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

I was not able to find a purchase record for a Sidewinder using either your name or email address but the part number you referenced is indeed a Sidewinder Pin Box designed to replace various Lippert, Fabex and M&M pin boxes.

There should be no contact between the pin box mounting wings on the trailer and the horizontal arm of the Sidewinder, nor should there be contact between the wings and the Sidewinder's wear plate. It does sound as though the Sidewinder was possible installed incorrectly (too high). All trailers' pin box mounting wings have several sets of holes to allow for changing the height of the pin box relative to the trailer and truck. If your installer mounted the Sidewinder very high up to give better clearance at the truck bed rails this could be the reason for the contact. I suggest you bring the trailer back to the installer to verify that the Sidewinder was installed properly.

expert reply by: Adam R