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?

expert reply by: Claire H

Demco 18K Autoslide Parts Breakdown
(click to enlarge)

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 .

Claire H.

5/28/2026

@Ric The # DM48KV are Demco brand replacement wear plates, but sometimes manufacturers will switch suppliers and parts can be slightly different but still functional, which is what it sounds like here.