Cushioned Pin Box Recommendation for 2017 XLR Thunderbolt 422AMP,

Updated 09/02/2025 | Published 08/25/2025

Question:

I want to add an air ride pinbox to my Reese Elite 24 (Ford puck) hitch. My rig is a 45' 2017 XLR Thunderbolt 422AMP, the factory PB sticker says it's a 1621 SHD (I believe the SHD is 21K and needs 6 (or more) G8 bolts per side. Please correct me if I'm wrong anywhere in my Q. So I prefer the air (over the coil spring or Gen-Y) because my toy hauler pin weight changes depending on my garage loaded toys or lack thereof. My thinking is that I can then adjust the air to always provide that "sweet spot" ride. My million dollar question is; Do I need the Curt/LC 369535 Flex Air (that has the rubber cushioning pivoting head)? -or- the Curt LC 158778 without the Flex plate. I'm really not sure since my Reese Elite 5th plate already pivots? Want the best ride of course, but no need to overkill or have the 2 pivot points that may cancel each other out, and, if not, I will order the Flex Air LC 369535. Noting, my Reece Elite is at it's highest height setting (w the OEM PB), so I have lowering space for these taller air ride PB's. THANK YOU and look forward to your response so I can place my order! :) -KJ

asked by: KJ M

Expert Reply:

Hey Kj, thank you for all of the info you mentioned from your setup! So basically both of those cushioned pin boxes will fit your Thunderbolt but the better option is the Curt Flex Air part # LC369535 as it offers vertical and horizontal cushioning unlike the part # LC158778 which only has vertical cushioning. Like you said the air bag will give you ability to tailor the amount of cushioning as well.

How do you like the Elite hitch?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Kj M.

8/25/2025

Went with your recommendation of the Curt Flex-Air LC369535 (ordered 8/25/25). I'm crossing my fingers for a safe delivery as I read many of the reviews and it seemed like the only complaints were the arrival of ruff handled scratched-up units. Thanks again! :) -KJ

Jameson C.

8/25/2025

@KjM Glad to help! I've got a good feeling it will show up looking good!

8/25/2025

The Reese Elite RE 25 has no complaints from me; 40+K miles (so far), maybe a bit noisy when my rear window is open, I may have to tighten the dogs on the puck feet. If/when I replace someday, prob go with a B&H... or, ask for help like I did here! lol.

Jameson C.

8/25/2025

@Kj Definitely reach out when it's time! Did you mean to type B and W like a Companion though?

8/26/2025

@JamesonC Yes.... B&W. Sorry! I do a lot of a business w a company out of NYC (B&H Photo and Electronics). Will do, you guys are now my first stop shop!

Jameson C.

8/26/2025

@Kj Oh I know them! I've bought some SD cards from them in the past.

9/2/2025

Hey Jemeson, Thanks for the follow up! Hitch arrived in very good shape, no scratches or dings. Cardboard was covered over everything and the 2 pallet base was a good idea. For my install... I installed the Flex Air PB with the help of forks on my tractor; lifted and slid it in with that (tow-motor/forklift) method, went really really. I did notice that the shock level line was facing the RV (not in frontal view), so the factory installed that backwards, I will take that off and turn it 180 degrees. I also read a few owners putting a line or color tape on it to help with backing in (center) alignment. Since I have to remove the shock anyways, I think I may spray paint the shock possibly a blue, but my neighbor says "orange" as then it might "stand out" and get your attention when walking near (when it's not hooked up to the truck). hmmmm, he may be on to something there. I have a few install images but see no place to attach them to this thread. I take the RV to Ocean City MD the 3rd week in Sept. where I will take a few in actions shots too. -KJ

Jameson C.

9/2/2025

@Kj Nice! I'm glad it went on easy. I'm curious how you like it on the highway. I'd say orange is probably a good choice. But it's your pin box so go with whatever color you like best. Hopefully we get ability to upload pics in comments but at this time that's not something we have yet. We ask about it all the time though.