Why Can't I Use a B&W Companion RVK3500 5TH Wheel Hitch With The Reese Sidewinder Pin Box?
Published 10/22/2021
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2019 Ram 3500 with Ramboxes. It is the short bed version. I’m getting a fifth wheel trailer, using the Reese Sidewinder pin box. I had the BandW Companion hitch installed using the OEM goose neck attachment, since there was no OEM for the puck system. Both bought from etrailer Once I got it home and read the literature, it says that the Sidewinder can’t be used with that hitch. Why not? Do I now have to buy a goose neck type hitch with which the Sidewider is compatible?
asked by: Arthur A
Expert Reply:
You cannot use the B&W Companion # BWRVK3500 with the Reese Sidewinder 5th Wheel King Pin # RP34FR due to the single mounting point of the B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch # BWGNRK1320. The single mounting point is not strong enough to resist the torsion that is placed on the 5th wheel hitch by the Sidewinder pin box when you are turning. There are no goose neck type hitches that are compatible with the Sidewinder as they all use a single mounting point.
You are going to have to install a set of Reese Quick-Install Custom Outboard Installation Kit w/ Base Rails # RP56010-53 and use a 5th wheel hitch like the Reese M5 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # RP30928. The rails attach to your frame with the custom under bed brackets, and the multiple mounting points are strong enough to allow for the Sidewinder pin box to work properly without damaging your 2019 Ram 3500.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
B&W Companion Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch Adapter - Dual Jaw - 20,000 lbs
- 5th Wheel Gooseneck Adapter
- Adapts Truck
- Gooseneck Hitch to 5th Wheel Trailer
- No Extra Clearance
- 20000 lbs GTW
- Connects to Gooseneck Hole
- Not Shock Absorbing
- B and W
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box
- Q&A: Does Truck with 6-1/2 ft bed Have to Use Slider Hitch for Turning Clearance with Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Article: Adapters for Towing a 5th Wheel Trailer with a Gooseneck Hitch
- Article: Ram Trailer Tow Prep Package
- Q&A: How Much Does the Head and Base Weigh for the B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Does the Curt Helux Pin Box Work w/ a Anderson Ultimate 5th Wheel Hitch?
- Article: Best 5th Wheel to Gooseneck Adapters (2023)
- Q&A: Best 5th Wheel Hitch For 2025 GMC 2500 With Factory Puck System
- Q&A: Can B and W Companion Hitch be Converted to a Slider Hitch
- Q&A: Will Demco Recon Adapter Work With Hide Away Gooseneck Ball On 2022 Chevy 2500 Duramax?
- Article: Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Information and Installation Tips
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)