Kingpin extension?

[labill]

I need to extend my kingpin by about 10" to clear my motorcycle when making sharp turns, so my question.
I have a 37' Avion Westport. If I put on a 10" extension will it put to much stress on the 5th wheel kingpin?

Thanks. Bill

[labill]

I need to extend my kingpin by about 10" to clear my motorcycle when making sharp turns, so my question.
I have a 37' Avion Westport. If I put on a 10" extension will it put to much stress on the 5th wheel kingpin?

Thanks. Bill

[TXiceman]

Short answer is Yes it will increase the stress on the pin box. I don't know what year Westport you have, but starting in 1997, Fleetwood had some front frame cracking problems on the Avion line.

Ken

[FiverBob]

Not only does it stress the framing more but you can have problems with the longer pin hitting the sides of the pickup bed in a tight corner. The back of the pinbox can hit the sides. Much better to go with a slider hitch.
Bob

[Ray,IN]

If your 5er has a Zieman/Lippert frame read their warranty closely and decide yourself. If they say their frames are not strong enough; I believe them.