Troubleshooting a Curt A16 5th Wheel Hitch Not Hooking Up Smoothly to a Reese Sidewinder

Published 08/24/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Dual Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(25)

$1279.95

Sidewinder Wedge for Curt A Series 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches

(93)

$47.94

Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package - Slide Bar Jaw - 16,000 lbs

(607)

$1052.95

Sidewinder Wedge Kit for Curt E-Series Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitches

(53)

$52.14

Question:

I am having a difficult time locking in my new curt hitch to my sidewinder box. I purchased the wedge for curt and it takes several attempts to lock in the pin. With my old truck and Reese hitch it was much easier. I am open to any suggestions to make it easier.

asked by: Michael M

Expert Reply:

I have a suspicion on what the issue could be. There is a good chance that the 5th wheel hitch and wedge are not compatible with the Sidewinder.

It at all comes down to what Sidewinder you have. If your Sidewinder is the more current model (68220), then the Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # C74FR and Sidewinder Wedge for Curt A Series 5th Wheel Trailer Hitches # C16992 would not be compatible. There was a design change between the Sidewinder generations that causes the wedge to sheer off. This could also cause fitment issues.

If you do have the 68220 Sidewinder, you would actually need the Curt E16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch for Chevy/GMC Towing Prep Package # C47FR with the Sidewinder Wedge Kit for Curt E-Series Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitches # RP64FR.

If you do have the older generation Sidewinder, then I would ensure that everything is installed/adjusted correctly. To include any of the height adjustments that can be done.