Ram Box Creating a Problem

Quick update. Looks to be a Sidewinder pin box. Wild looking set-up. I've heard of them but never knew much about them.

Any negatives?

Typical hitch with a Ram Box would more then likely end up with pin box mount/back of pin box hitting the Ram Box and causing damage

Sidewinder pin box with rotating turret is a good option for shortbed trucks vs sliding hitch (and for that Ram Box) due to all pivoting occurring back at pin box mount

Some have reported the 4 bolts that attach the turret coming loose and/or the 'wedge' that locks king pin in place to 5th wheel hitch loosening.

Some Locktite Blue on thread bolts will prevent that and it easily breaks loose when needed with hand tools


Also that Sidewinder Pin Box can be used as conventional by installing 2 3/4" bolts at back of box that locks it from turning and then moving wedge to 'stow position'

Then again.......not many options with that Ram Box

for sure the rambox does complicate 5th wheel setups. I think he needs to talk to a hitch shop and ensure he gets good advice before proceeding. I didn't even think ram recommended 5th wheel setups with the rambox but perhaps there are options now. Hope he can get fixed up ok.

Daryll

In my opinion the Sidewinder is the best option. Some slider hitches are too wide to work with the narrow Rambox. The Sidewinder is automatic and has several benefits over any other potential solution. Hookup at sharp angles, backside of the pin box cannot hit the truck sides, turning response when backing up will be faster and the fiver will not cut inside the truck rear tires as bad when turning a corner. Routine maintenance will probably be less than with an auto slider.

Would the sidewinder have any effect on stability or sway with the pivot point no longer being over the axel but 2 ft behind? It seems to me that was where they got the "better to tow than a trailer" saying came from. What say you folks?

I have the Sidewinder and works fine. I do find it easier to back up than "normal" hitch.