Benefit of Using 5th Wheel Pin Box Rated for More Than Trailer Actual Weight

Updated 10/24/2017 | Published 10/23/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Flex Air 5th Wheel Pin Box - Lippert 1621 - 18,000 lbs

(192)

$1667.90

Curt Flex Air 5th Wheel Pin Box - Lippert 1621 - 21,000 lbs

(192)

$1727.80

Question:

What is the physical difference between the Trailair Flex Air pin box 18K LC328492 and 21K LC369535? Is bigger better? My trailer factory weight is 15K, gross approx. 16.5K

asked by: Ron T

Expert Reply:

The Lippert TrailAir Flex Air 5th Wheel Pin Boxes # LC328492 and # LC369535 are both bolt-on replacements for the model 1621 OEM pin box. Their difference, as you noted, is in their rated weight capacities; 18K for # LC328492 and 21K for # LC369535. Either one will be fine for use with a compatible trailer with a GVWR of 16,500-lbs.

But yes, safety margin in the form of extra capacity is a good thing. The relatively low incremental cost for the 21K pin box over the 18K makes a pretty good case for going for the higher-rated unit. Any mechanical item on your trailer, whether a jack, winch or pin box, will typically work better and may even last longer when it is used below its maximum capacity. If you have the means to get the higher-rated pin box then I absolutely recommend doing so.

expert reply by: Adam R