Towing 5th-Wheel Trailer with Short Bed Truck that has B&W Gooseneck Hitch Installed

Question:

Ive been trying to research the correct 5th wheel adapter for my trailer/pickup. I have the BandW Gooseneck turnover ball installed, it is about 37 inches from the back of the cab and the trailer sits 13 inches front the top of the ball. How much offset can I get? The trailer is 96inch wide so I would need 52 inches which equals 15 inches of offset and thats quite the offset unless I measured this incorrectly Also the tail end on the 5th wheel hitch part closest to the tailgate is going to be offly close, if not hitting, the tailgate with the offset, would I just extend the adapter higher to account for this? Also is it possible to have less offset but just plan on never making a 90 degree turn with the trailer? Any help is appreciated

asked by: Garret R

Expert Reply:

The best option for getting close to the clearance you need when towing your fifth wheel trailer is going to be a sliding hitch like the B&W Companion # BWRVK3400. This will install right in the ball hole of your Turnoverball gooseneck hitch and provide 12 inches of travel for added clearance. This is short of the 15 inches you are needing but it will be the closest you can get with either a compatible fifth wheel hitch or adapter. The hitch height on the Companion can be adjusted from 17 to 19 inches.

The biggest offset with a gooseneck coupler adapter we currently have available is the Andersen # AM3139, which will provide an 8 inch offset. This will have a vertical adjustment of 3 inches and will be the better option with regards to the needed height for hooking up with your trailer.

It is possible to have insufficient offset and clearance space as long as you avoid making any 90 degree turns, as you mentioned in your question.

I have attached demonstration videos on both of these products for you to check out.

expert reply by: Chris R