Forum Discussion

CampbellDaycrui's avatar
CampbellDaycrui
Explorer
Oct 17, 2016

Converting Superglide kingpin box to standard type

I've just bought a 5er that has had a Superglide capture plate welded to the kingpin box. My TV has a B&W turnover ball gooseneck hitch already and I intend to add a Companion slider, so I need to get rid of the plate with the big wedge on the underside.

Has anyone ever had to remove and replace a Pullrite capture plate with a standard reinforcing plate? Is it easier or safer to buy a whole new kingpin box instead? BTW, the Superglide plate was welded into place and I am not sure if it was on top of the existing box plate or not.
  • mileshuff's avatar
    mileshuff
    Explorer
    Oct 23, 2016
    I'm glad I went with a custom plate for my SuperGlide! Just one screw on the front. Loosen it and the plate comes off. Comes in handy when I need to tow with another truck that does not have a SuperGlide.
  • Toolguy5's avatar
    Toolguy5
    Explorer III
    Oct 23, 2016
    RustyJC wrote:
    If the pin box load plate is now double thickness, you may have a problem with the groove in the kingpin engaging the jaws in the hitch - the groove may be too high. Something to check carefully.

    Rusty


    I was thinking the same thing. I would not take a chance that I was not connected right. Don't want to loose the fifth wheel running down the road.
  • CampbellDaycrui's avatar
    CampbellDaycrui
    Explorer
    Oct 22, 2016
    After a test fit I see that Rusty was correct: there is room for complete lock-up with a very slight clearance (1/32"). So I'll be using grease instead of a plastic ring.
  • CampbellDaycrui's avatar
    CampbellDaycrui
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2016
    That's why I say I might have to remove the plate anyway. A test fit will let me know. If it's good, it's good. If not, it gets fixed.
  • DSteiner51's avatar
    DSteiner51
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2016
    If you want to use the teflon disc instead of grease I believe you will need to remove the capture plate. Otherwise.. go have fun and enjoy.
  • RustyJC's avatar
    RustyJC
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2016
    If the pin box load plate is now double thickness, you may have a problem with the groove in the kingpin engaging the jaws in the hitch - the groove may be too high. Something to check carefully.

    Rusty
  • CampbellDaycrui's avatar
    CampbellDaycrui
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2016
    Easy telling with a flashlight and inspection mirror: no rust...... Not surprising given its life in the CA desert. Simple enough to remove the second plate if or when necessary, but until then it will stay double thickness.

    I was an A&P and aircraft inspector for many years, but I still try not to overthink things.....
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Oct 18, 2016
    Cut off the whole plate and be done with it.
    No telling IF moisture has collected between the 2 plates and rusting.

    Get rid of the capture plate...inspect/clean/repaint OEM king pin plate
  • CampbellDaycrui's avatar
    CampbellDaycrui
    Explorer
    Oct 18, 2016
    The capture plate was welded over the original plate so I have the option of cutting it off if I want. As a first step I've cut the wedge off with a sawzall and ground off the welds. Now I have to wait for my new hitch to be delivered so I can check the fit with the new head. If it fits I am home free. If not, I'll just cut and grind off the added plate. Easy peasy!
  • CampbellDaycrui's avatar
    CampbellDaycrui
    Explorer
    Oct 18, 2016
    The pin box was converted by welding about 10 years ago. It turns out the seller is willing to deliver the unit to my storage so I will able to inspect it tomorrow.

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