How Many Wear Plates Are Used in the Demco Autoslide 18K and Where Do They Install?
Updated 05/28/2026 | Published 05/20/2026
Question:
Do I need to buy 2 of these for the 18K autoslide? One to go on the gear and one above the rails?
asked by: Boz
Expert Reply:
Hi Boz,
The Demco Autoslide 18K fifth wheel hitch requires two wear plates part # DM48KV. I found a diagram for the Demco 18K Autoslide fifth wheel hitch, and it shows two wear plates that are marked as part number 21 in the parts breakdown diagram. The wear plates are located on top of the main gear assembly (part #32 in the diagram) and one under the upper slide assembly (part#33 in the diagram). I've included the parts breakdown diagram with the wear plates highlighted so you can see where they install.
Are you replacing the wear plates due to issues hauling or hitch noise?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Replacement Wear Plate for Demco 18,000-lb and 21,000-lb Auto-Slide Fifth-Wheel Hitches
- Accessories and Parts
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Plates
- Wear Plates
- Autoslide
- Demco
more information >
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on Accessories and Parts
Ric
5/28/2026
Yes, two are required....I'm pretty sure these were aftermarket and not Demco. The Demco plates have counter sunk holes for the tapered screws. Plates I recieved did not, however the screws did sink in when tightened hard enough. I was asked if aftermarket would suffice as demco was back ordered. I did respond no .