Difference Between Reese Revolution and Sidewinder Pin Boxes and How Do they Work

Updated 09/16/2014 | Published 09/15/2014

Question:

Is it standard procedure to drop the 2 bolts on the revolution if u have a 6-1/2foot bed or is it only done if u have a 5-1/2foot bed? I have damage to my brand new 2015 Shasta fifth wheel trailer and my 2011 f250 truck in the camper place we purchased it from and have them install it will not fix it

asked by: Jamie M

Expert Reply:

The Revolution is the OEM version of the Sidewinder but they are little bit different. I would need to know which model Revolution is on your trailer to determine how it is supposed to be installed and used. But my understanding is that the installation and operation of the pin box is the same regardless of bed length.

The way that the Revolution and Sidewinders work is that there is a wedge that fits behind the king pin on the pin box. When the trailer is hooked up to the hitch, the trailer cannot pivot at the hitch because of the wedge. Instead it pivots at the turret. If that wedge was not installed then the trailer would pivot at the hitch and decrease the turning clearance. So if they did not install the wedge then they made a mistake.

It sounds like you might be talking about the 2 bolts that go through the turret and Revolution arm. If these are in place then it will prevent the trailer from pivoting at the turret.

expert reply by: Michael H