Troubleshooting Chucking From An XLR Nitro 321 With An Air Ride Pin Box And Demco Autoslide Hitch

Updated 08/04/2021 | Published 08/02/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Head for Demco Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches

(12)

$481.45

Classic Accessories Cover for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch - 24" x 24" x 18" - Black

(148)

$49.06

Question:

I have the Demco auto-slide w/ puck-system in a 2021 F250 Lariat stock, pulling a XLR Nitro 321 with the Flex-air Rhino weighing about 14500 lbs. The truck and trailer are level when attached. The Flex-air has taken the bounce out of the ride. But now there is an almost constant sawing motion, almost as if there are rubber bands pulling the trailer along. Our trip this weekend was only about 75 miles each way, one of the shorter trips, and yet I was more ready to get home than prior. There is no way I can take that for the 4 and 5 hundred mile trips we are planning for next year. What is the cause of the constant push-pull? How do I get rid of it?

asked by: Gordon

Expert Reply:

Since you already have an air ride pin box the next step would be to look at your hitch. Based on the picture you provided the jaws look like they need to be replaced. Even though the king pin might be held by the hitch jaws so it's in no danger of popping out there could be enough play to allow the king pin to rattle which is transferring into the chucking you're feeling. You'll be able to replace the head assembly of your hitch with the Replacement Head for Demco Hijacker Autoslide 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches Item # DM6081.

The new jaws will form a tighter grip around the king pin reducing the chucking you feel and give you a much smoother ride. You can also use the Classic Accessories Cover for 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # CA80116 to protect your hitch from the elements when not in use.

expert reply by: Kevin C