5th AIRBOURNE SIDEWINDER - Diesel Forum

bogg · 09-22-2009, 06:05 PM

Thinking about putting a 32" sleeper behind my cab, in the bed. I have a 27" toolbox there now that does come close to the 5th wheel on tight turns, so with the extra 5" wondering if anyone has used this pinbox and what the thoughts on it are. Does it give you a better clearance between the units, and does it provide a better ride?

**SmokeyWren** · 09-23-2009, 11:55 AM

Swivel and/or Air Cusioned Premium Pin Box

The Sidewinder optional part of that high-priced "cushioned" pinbox does basically the same thing as an automatic slider hitch. It gives you 20" additional clearance between cab and trailer when making a jacknife turn.

But probably not enough additional clearance for a 5er or goose to clear a 32" sleeper.

88beast · 09-23-2009, 12:42 PM

do you have a trailer you haul reguarly or do you haul for the rv manufactures?
either way get an rv with the least clearence and tape a box (long one) across the bed
if it touches you know and its only damaging carboard so its no big deal

bogg · 09-23-2009, 06:04 PM

Thanks for the feedback. I don't want to clear the sleeper, just have enough room to make standard turns. My 27" crossbox (sits 6" over the top of the side rails) has not been hit in 200k miles of travel, just looking to add a cushion for the extra 5". The sleeper will have 2 seats/belts in it to give my kids more room on our travels as we intend to go full time in a few months. I will take the cardboard test...

wittmeba · 09-25-2009, 01:04 PM

Just from my own experiences of hauling the 5th wheel 8 years, being able to look out the rear window and see the rig and cab, I still wasnt real comfortable with tight turns even going forward. Always afraid of the curved nose of the 5th wheel making contact where I couldnt quite see.

My guess you wont be able to see any of the 5th wheel with a sleeper so every turn will be a blind turn. Too risky for me.

bogg · 09-25-2009, 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wittmeba

Just from my own experiences of hauling the 5th wheel 8 years, being able to look out the rear window and see the rig and cab, I still wasnt real comfortable with tight turns even going forward. Always afraid of the curved nose of the 5th wheel making contact where I couldnt quite see.

My guess you wont be able to see any of the 5th wheel with a sleeper so every turn will be a blind turn. Too risky for me.

What I like about Cowtown Sleepers is they have window and all glass walk-in door options on the rear. Also, right now I have a 27" crossbox and I watch my mirrors to be sure I don't hit it. I have 'tapped' it before (making a U-turn) and worry that the fiberglass sleeper will not be as giving when 'tapped'. That is why I am thinking about the Sidewinder...