Troubleshooting 5th Wheel Slider Hitch That Will Not Slide

Updated 09/07/2021 | Published 09/06/2021

Question:

My 5th wheel will not slide an inch. I have tried everything it’s froze solid

asked by: Larry C

Expert Reply:

The first thing I recommend is testing to see if the slider will work without a trailer connected. If it will work then likely the rollers are damaged and with all the weight of the trailer it refuses to move.

If it still won't move we need to determine if the unlock handle is fully disengaging the lock that prevents the slider from moving forward or back. Depending on your 5th wheel hitch this may be visible as it sits in the bed or it may need to be turned over to see the parts.

If the lock is fully disengaged and the slider will still not operate you may have some severe corrosion inside that has seized the parts. Some penetrating oil will help to break up this corrosion.

If all these steps have failed to free the slider you likely have a part damaged inside the hitch and it will need to be replaced. If you can tell me what hitch you have I can see if there are replacement parts available or recommend a replacement hitch.

expert reply by: Bud M