Correct Sidewinder Wedge for B&W Companion

Updated 12/26/2025 | Published 12/20/2025

Question:

I purchased a 2023 fifth wheel with a Reese 20K sidewinder pin box that was bolted to prevent turning. I tow with a 2022 GMC HD 2500 with a BandW Companion puck system. It did not come with the wedge or locking pin. You recommend Part Number SWW-06 for the wedge. Reese recommends Part Number 6804 wedge. They do not look the same. Which one is the best for my application because I want to be able to do a 90 degree turn without hitting my cab. Plus I do not want the side movement some people have complained about. Why is the SWW-06 not available till March 2?

asked by: Frank P

Expert Reply:

Hi Frank; the # RP74FR (68204) and # SWW-06 look different because they are a little different. The # RP74FR is only designed to work with the 68220 and 69220. If you have a different Sidewinder this wedge will not fit. It also fits a wider range of 5th wheel hitches. The # SWW-06 is less specific when it comes to the pin box and works with the Sidewinder and 5th Airborne Sidewinder. However, it is a better fit for the Companion.

The March date for the # SWW-06 is our best estimate for when these will be back in stock from Reese. We have sold through our existing inventory and have to wait for them to send more. I'm not entirely sure what is going on with Reese and other companies under First Brands since they declared bankruptcy, it could take even longer than March. If you have the 68220 or 69220 Sidewinder I would go ahead and get the # RP74FR unless you can find the other one elsewhere or you're willing to wait.

expert reply by: Robin H

Sidewinder Wedge
(click to enlarge)

Frank P.

12/22/2025

I have the 69220 Sidewinder and will use the RP74FR like you recommend because of the delay in getting the SWW-06. BUT, should I order the SWW-06 as well because it will work better? Thanks for your quick response.

Robin H.

12/22/2025

@FrankP I would see what you think about the # RP74FR and if you don't have any complaints save the money.

Phil

12/22/2025

Frank, I bought and use the B&W compatible wedge. I have a Curt Turning Point pin box. My Chevy 2500 HD has a standard bed so for safety sake I needed to use the functionality of the pivoting pin box or purchase a slider hitch. The reason I bought the wedge was purely for peace of mind. The universal plate that came with the Turning Point only provided minimal (in my mind) surface contact at the B&W hitch funnel. I’m sure that the universal plate is more than adequate, but having the additional surface contact with the Airborne wedge designed specifically for the B&W hitch gives me confidence in my hitch setup. Hope this helps.

Frank

12/22/2025

@Phil I found an Airborne in stock elsewhere on line for about $10 more than etrailer. Sorry etrailer BUT your help has been great. For peace of mind, I also want the Airborne wedge even though I have carefully towed about 3,000 miles without one so far. Thanks Phil

See All (4) Replies to Frank P. ∨

Frank P.

12/26/2025

My apology to you Robin. I misread your original response. You mentioned that the RP74FR ONLY works with the 68220 or 69220. You mentioned the SWW-06 works with less specific Sidewinder pin boxes and the SWW-06 is a better fit for the Companion. To me, it physically looks a better fit. At the time, I did not know the model # of my Sidewinder pin box (which is a 69220) but was focused on the Companion hitch and physical shape of the SWW-06. I am sorry for not understanding your expert, excellent original response. I have ordered the RP74FR.