What is Required Lubrication and Maintenance of Reese Revolution Sidewinder Pin Box # RP34FR

Updated 09/11/2013 | Published 09/10/2013

Question:

I have a Rockwood 5th. travel trailer with the factory installed sidewinder hitch. I have had this for about 8 months and have notice what looks like a rusty water streaks on the sides of the sidewinder. Does this need to be lubricated. I cant see any grease fittings on it. It you need me to I will send a picture.

asked by: Terry W

Helpful Expert Reply:

My research on the Forest River website shows that their Rockwood Series of 5th wheel trailers currently comes equipped with a Reese Revolution hitch.

The gross weights (GVWR) of the various Rockwood-series trailers varies considerably across models from a low of 7850-lbs for their 8244WS to a high of 9350-lbs for their 8289WS but my contact at Reese advised that the routine maintenance recommended in their instruction manual (which is attached for your review) are consistent across their different models of sidewinders.

Reese recommends that to maintain easy hookup you frequently lubricate the wedge surfaces, back side of the king pin, and the skid plate surface. The bearing surfaces of the sidewinder arm can also be lubricated if stiff, using white lithium grease. Never use a lube plate with a Sidewinder. Page 4 of the linked instructions illustrates the lubrication points. I have also linked a brief article concerning Sidewinder lubrication.

The only other possibility is that when the trailer manufacturer installed the pin box the painted surface may have become scratched, leading to a bit of rust. If possible, you can paint the Sidewinder in any spots where such minor damage may have occurred.

expert reply by: Adam R