Can Demco Hijacker 5th Wheel Hitch Be Used with Lippert Turning Point

Updated 09/25/2019 | Published 09/24/2019

Question:

Turning Point Hitch in Demco Autoslide Is there a capture plate for the Turning Point pinbix or will a SWW-05 wedge do the trick?

asked by: Rick P

Expert Reply:

There is a way for you to use the Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch like the 18K # DM8550034, however it isn't by using a custom wedge or capture plate. Out of the box the Hijacker actually isn't compatible with pivoting pin boxes like the Turning Point or Reese Sidewinder, as it creates too many moving parts.

What you could do though if you already have the Hijacker is lock out the Turning Point, essentially converting it to a standard pin box that pivots at the hitch (while losing the cab clearance that the pin box is designed to offer). I have attached an image from the Turning Point pin box that explains how to lock it out.

If you don't already have the Hijacker (or are willing to sell it and use the money for a new hitch) then the better option is with a fixed unit. For this I specifically recommend the Reese M5 # RP30928, which works perfectly with the Turning Point using the supplied wedge or the custom # RP44FR. The hitch has a forged single-piece self-latching jaw for a really secure connection to the trailer and a really smooth ride during travel. Its uniquely wide 9" funnel also makes for easier hookup since you have a larger area for guiding the king pin into the hitch.

Using a fixed hitch like this will let you use the Turning Point pin box as intended, maintaining the extra 22 inches of cab clearance it provides by moving the pivot point back from the hitch. This eliminates the need for a sliding hitch. I have attached a short video demonstration on the Reese M5 that you can check out as well.

expert reply by: Chris R