Forum Discussion

mxdad777's avatar
mxdad777
Explorer
Dec 29, 2021

Reese Sidewinder

I have a Duramax standard bed truck that I pull a Grand Design Reflection 337 RLS with. I have a non sliding B&W hitch and have never had any issues with clearance. It gets close occasionally if I have to make a really tight turn, but no problems.
I recently bought a rack that goes over the front of my hood to haul my 14’ boat on. This rack has a support that mounts to the bed behind the cab and so I’ve lost 2 1/2” of clearance. Under normal towing conditions I won’t have a problem, but I’m not as confident in tight turns. I really don’t want to go with a slider (too heavy) and so I was thinking of going with a Reese Sidewinder. Does anyone have any experience with the Sidewinder, good or bad? I’d appreciate any feedback. Thanks
  • ACZL's avatar
    ACZL
    Explorer
    Dec 29, 2021
    Have you turned the B&W around? In doing so you'll gain some add'l room
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Dec 29, 2021
    Your B&W hitch is adjustable ahead/back, by relocating the arm position, or as said above, turning around. If you are already in the full rearward arm position, the Sidewinder will help.

    Which B&W do you have? A Patriot on rails will work. If the Companion for GM oem pucks, the sidewinder will work. If you have the single point attachment Companion 3500, it is not recommended to use the Sidewinder.

    Jerry
  • mxdad777's avatar
    mxdad777
    Explorer
    Dec 29, 2021
    I already have the B&W in the most rearward position. And yes my hitch is the factory GM 4 point attachment. This is why I’m thinking the Sidewinder will be my best option.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Dec 29, 2021
    Should be GTG with Sidewinder.

    I've no personal experience with a SW, but a neighbor of mine changed to one, with a standard bed Ford. He had a tight maneuver backing in his driveway. He liked the advantage the SW gave, even giving a quicker reaction time, as well as clearance.

    Jerry
  • C_Schomer's avatar
    C_Schomer
    Explorer
    Jan 08, 2022
    I bought a used fiver with a sidewinder but I have a standard 8 foot bed so the sidewinder is in my scrap pile. Otherwise they work fine but you need a fifth wheel hitch that’s approved to use a sidewinder pin box.
  • Beaker's avatar
    Beaker
    Explorer
    Jan 08, 2022
    I have a Sidewinder. Like it, easier to back up.
    Make sure that the "universal adapter" fits your hitch.

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