Troubleshooting 5th Wheel Slider Hitch That Will Not Slide
Updated 09/07/2021 | Published 09/06/2021 >
Question:
My 5th wheel will not slide an inch. I have tried everything it’s froze solid
asked by: Larry C
Expert Reply:
The first thing I recommend is testing to see if the slider will work without a trailer connected. If it will work then likely the rollers are damaged and with all the weight of the trailer it refuses to move.
If it still won't move we need to determine if the unlock handle is fully disengaging the lock that prevents the slider from moving forward or back. Depending on your 5th wheel hitch this may be visible as it sits in the bed or it may need to be turned over to see the parts.
If the lock is fully disengaged and the slider will still not operate you may have some severe corrosion inside that has seized the parts. Some penetrating oil will help to break up this corrosion.
If all these steps have failed to free the slider you likely have a part damaged inside the hitch and it will need to be replaced. If you can tell me what hitch you have I can see if there are replacement parts available or recommend a replacement hitch.

Product Page this Question was Asked From
B&W Companion Slider Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
- 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter
- Adapts Truck
- Gooseneck Hitch to 5th Wheel Trailer
- No Extra Clearance
- 20000 lbs GTW
- Connects to Gooseneck Hole
- Not Shock Absorbing
- B and W
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Q&A: Does 5th Wheel Pin Weight Count Towards the Truck's Payload
- Q&A: 16K Reese Goose Box Pin Box For 1621 Pin Box Bolt Pattern On 2020 Keystone Cougar 29RKS 5TH Wheel
- Article: Adapters for Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer with a Gooseneck Hitch
- Q&A: What Air Bags Work with the B&W Turnoverball Part # BWGNRK1116 on a 2018 Ford F-250
- Q&A: Pullrite Adapter Rails Needed For GM's Towing Prep Package
- Q&A: Recommended Cover for B&W Companion Slider 5th Wheel Hitch
- Article: Best Air Bag Suspension (2023)
- Article: The Ultimate RV Camping Checklist for Your First Year RVing
- Article: Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Information and Installation Tips
- Article: 5th Wheel Hitch Installation | The Ultimate DIY Guide