Goose neck vs traditional hitch

[Paul camper]

who has any thoughts about goose neck vs traditional hitch, we just purchased a Bighorn 3500 ram and a Solitude 369rl, is one better than the other or does it come down to simplicity.

[chief02]

Most 5er frames are not designed for the additional leverage stress a goose neck applies. Many have done it without issue while others have caused serious damage. Go look at how a gooseneck trailer is designed and constructed. Much beefer and totally different design.

[Cypressloser]

As Chief02 said, don't do it. Unless you have the written ok from the trailer manufacturer.
If you have the gooseneck ball why not consider the http://www.andersenhitches.com/Produ...k-version.aspx It's light weight, inexpensive and exceptionally strong.

[Walt Bennett]

X3 - although I've never heard of ANY 5er mfr. that makes their trailers well enough to use a gooseneck.

[dduerden]

Bad idea, most mfgs will void the frame warranty if they catch you with a goose neck adapter. Way too much additional stress on the pin box. Plus they are a pain to hook up compared to a 5th wheel anyway.

[L.C.Gray]

Coming from a farm oriented background, I've never understood the 5th wheel hitch being favored over a goose. I'd much rather have the goose, but I see where the adapters added to the original pin box could add a lot stress to the pin box/frame.

The best answer is the aftermarket replacement pin box that is made for a goose and recognized by the frame manufacturers to not void the warranty. It's out there but quite pricey.

[dayle1]

Originally Posted by L.C.Gray

Coming from a farm oriented background, I've never understood the 5th wheel hitch being favored over a goose. I'd much rather have the goose, but I see where the adapters added to the original pin box could add a lot stress to the pin box/frame.

The best answer is the aftermarket replacement pin box that is made for a goose and recognized by the frame manufacturers to not void the warranty. It's out there but quite pricey.

Actually the best answer is using a conventional 5th wheel hitch since that is what the frame was designed for and there are so many choices/prices.

As you stated, with your background a goose neck setup makes lots of sense. But for newbies or others that only tow RVs, having the hitch visible from the driver's seat is a big help when hooking up. And it is almost impossible to back too far and hit a tool box or the back of the cab.

If a truck is already set up with a floor level ball, then a decent choice is the Andersen Ultimate hitch. This design attaches to the existing ball but uses a second, elevated ball that is visible to the driver. And being elevated, it is not an extension that adds stress to the fiver frame like other GN adaptors.

[L.C.Gray]

Let me clarify... IF you insist on a goose rather than a 5th wheel, the replacement goose neck pin box is the best route rather than an adapter that just couples to and extends the existing pin box.

[chief02]

And adds 90 degree stress that a 5th wheel coupler reduces.

[bailiff]

Look at most goose neck trailers and you will see a large gussets on each side where the riser meets the deck over. Most all lower cost fifth wheel trailers have frames built by Lippert Componants that are IMO, flimsy at best and do not have gussets that assist in handling the added torque of an extended gooseneck connection.


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[Quad]

I myself have had the Goosebox for 2 yrs and about 8000 miles now and wouldn't change it. It's made by Reese (and is some how related/connected to Lippert. Don't remember exactly how). But It's not too expensive when you consider a good 5th wheel hitch is around $400-$800 range I think??? If you go the B&W route you have the gooseneck hitch then the companion hitch for a total of about $1000-$1200. I spent $1000 installed by the dealer and mine comes with air ride and is approved by Lippert. Plus I have the benefit of having less weight in the bed (more payload) and a clean bed when unhooked. If you like or want a gooseneck hitch it really is the way to go.

[sknight]

Originally Posted by Cypressloser

As Chief02 said, don't do it. Unless you have the written ok from the trailer manufacturer.
If you have the gooseneck ball why not consider the http://www.andersenhitches.com/Produ...k-version.aspx It's light weight, inexpensive and exceptionally strong.

I'll second this, it's what I have and love it thus far.

[SultanGris]

How big is that trailer? Mines 30ft and I use a gooseneck adapter with no issues. I wouldn't for a much larger trailer though, and make sure your trailer brakes work and are set properly to minimize stress on it. Otherwise that Anderson one doesn't look bad. I just heard about it or I may have went that route. I Farm too so I have gooseneck b&w turnover, also considered the b&w companion 5th wheel which I'll probably get when I get a bigger 5er.

[Appy]

Don't do it. 5ver frames are not designed for those goose neck extensions. I have seen damaged frames costing 4k to repair.