Join Your RV Specialists in the RV shop today as our technicians inspect a B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch and discover a leaking shock absorber on the hitch head assembly.
This is actually more common than most people realize—that small hydraulic damper inside the head is what helps control articulation movement, prevent violent chucking, and smooth out tow feel. When it leaks, you’ll often feel more clunk, slap, and harsh motion when starting or stopping.
We contacted B&W directly, and they are sending a replacement shock absorber at no charge under their support program for this RVB3300 model.
How to replace the shock absorber
Note: Always verify your exact model and parts match, and contact B&W if you are unsure. Safety first.
Tools recommended
- Socket set/standard hand tools
- Torque wrench
- Clean rags
- Safety gloves and eye protection
Step-by-step replacement
- Remove the hitch head from the base and place it on a stable workbench.
- Locate the small hydraulic shock/damper mounted between the pivot arms.
- Remove the cotter pins and retaining hardware from each end of the shock.
- Carefully remove the failed, leaking shock absorber.
- Install the new B&W replacement shock in the same orientation as the original.
- Reinstall hardware and cotter pins, then torque bolts to factory spec.
- Reinstall the hitch head onto the Companion base.
- Test the articulation motion by hand before reinstalling it into the truck bed. You should feel smooth, controlled resistance, not sloppy play.
Why this matters
That shock isn’t just cosmetic, it is a functional tow safety component. When it fails, you can experience:
- Harsh jarring
- Excessive chucking
- Forward-backward shock load
- Premature wear
- Stress transferred into the RV’s pin box/frame
Replacing that shock restores proper damping and tow comfort.
If you own a B&W Companion Hitch and suspect excessive movement, visible leak residue, or increased tow clunk, this is something worth checking.
And if you’re local here in Lodi, CA, bring it to us, and we’ll take a look at it for you.
More from Dustin
Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
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RVDT2808
Thank you for the discussion and warning of the consequences of failure of the shock absorber, Dustin! Have a great day, a grand 2026, and safe travels!
My hitch does not have a shock so this comment is probably irrelevant. In the tools recommended section you mention safety gloves and eye protection. I understand that all lawyers are requiring eye protection for everything. I see a lot of you tube how to videos where they use nitrile glove. I don’t know if that is to keep their finger nails clean or if there is a true advantage, in non messy settings. I grew up without the nitril gloves and seldom used safety glasses. Why is “everyone” using these gloves?