B&W Companion Sliding 5th Wheel Hitch Wont Slide When Attached to Trailer

Updated 09/03/2020 | Published 09/02/2020

Question:

Ive tried locking the trailer brakes... Choking the trailer tires to no avail. I can unlock the hitch and slide it back manually without the 5th wheel attached. Recently I got it to slide using the trailer braking, and had a very violent slam when it broke loose. Am I doing this wrong? Does something need lubed?

asked by: Jeffrey B

Expert Reply:

If you can slide the B&W Companion Slider # BWRVK3400 when your trailer isn't attached, that would not indicate any type of issue with the hitch being stuck. To slide the hitch when attached to your truck you need to make sure of a couple things, starting with ensuring the trailer brakes are locked and the tires are chocked. I know you said you did that but I did need to mention it in the interest of being thorough.

Make sure the handle is pulled fully as well, but the other thing, and possibly the issue you may be having, is that you need to be on absolutely flat ground. If you are at any type of angle up or down, it may get stuck due to the pressure on the king pin and jaws. These are really the only things that seem feasible if you are able to get the hitch sliding manually but not with your trailer attached.

I have added a link to a video showing the slider in use at about the 1:10 mark if you want to check that out as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S