Troubleshooting Reese Elite M5 5th Wheel Hitch Not Unhooking

Updated 01/03/2019 | Published 01/02/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Under-Bed Rail and Installation Kit for Reese Elite Series 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches

(42)

$589.00

Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Ford Towing Prep Package - Single Jaw - 20,000 lbs

(462)

$1026.41

Sidewinder Wedge Kit for 20,000-lb Reese ELITE, M-Series, or ProSeries Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitches

(49)

$53.80

Question:

Good morning... I have the same problem as this question 108405,,,i really do not like this Hitch...Reese should have an answer for this problem..the only way i could pull out the handle is by banging it with my foot...not normal.. Thank you...

asked by: Serge R

Expert Reply:

The Reese M5 Series 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ Wiring Harness - Single Jaw - 20,000lbs # RP30921 should absolutely not be hanging up as you are stating. I reached out to my contact at Reese and they say the issue is either with the hitch needing to be lubricated or your Sidewinder pin box is not staying properly aligned. Also the hitch needs some weight on the head to function correctly, so if you are raising the pin box like the question you referenced that is a hindrance not a help to disconnecting.

Another possibility since you are using a Sidewinder is the wedge may need to be adjusted or replaced. If you want the custom wedge for the best function you will want # RP44FR which is a perfect fit for that hitch to both connect and disconnect easier while securing your Sidewinder when in use.

expert reply by: Jason S