What is a Sidewinder Wedge Kit for a 5th Wheel Hitch

Published 02/18/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Universal Wedge for 5th Airborne Sidewinders

(5)

$72.35

B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(727)

$699.00

Question:

what is a sidewinder kit for 5th wheel hitch and what does it look like

asked by: Tony G

Helpful Expert Reply:

A Sidewinder wedge kit for 5th wheel hitch is a wedge that installs on the underside of the Sidewinder pin box and helps to lock out the king pin in the funnel of the 5th wheel hitch head. This helps the Sidewinder to only pivot at the turret instead of pivoting both at the turret and at the king pin (which would be extremely dangerous).

The Sidewinders come with a universal wedge like part # 201100 but depending on what kind of 5th wheel hitch you have it may be better to use a custom wedge. For example, the B&W Patriot 5th wheel hitch # BWRVK3200 has a wider funnel than most other 5th wheel hitches. This makes it easier to coupler your trailer but you will need to use the Custom Wedge # SWW-06 to ensure a proper fit.

I have attached photos of both the Universal wedge and the customer wedge for the B&W 5th wheel hitches for you to reference. If you have a Sidewinder and need a wedge just let me know what 5th wheel hitch you have I can let you know what wedge you will need to use.

expert reply by: Jon G