Does B&W Offset Gooseneck Coupler Reduce Towing Capacity of 2018 Ram 2500

Question:

Kyle, One last question will airbag suspension and or overload springs help out?

asked by: Jason H

Expert Reply:

That's a smart question but the B&W Extend-A-Goose Gooseneck Coupler # BWTEXA4200 actually has a towing capacity of 24,000 lbs and vertical load limit of 6,000 lbs which is still quite a bit more than the 5th wheel towing capacity will be for a 3/4 ton truck like your 2018 Ram 2500.

Keep in mind the your towing capacity will be limited to the lowest-rated component of your towing set-up; for example, the maximum fifth wheel towing capacity of a 2018 Ram 2500HD is 17,980 lbs and that is only if the truck is a Regular Cab with a long bed, 2WD, 6.7L diesel and 3.42 axle ratio. There are other configurations of the truck that can lower the capacity to less than 11,000 lbs.

So even if your '18 Ram 2500 has the B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch # BWGNRK1384 which has a 30,000 lb capacity, and you are using the B&W Extend-A-Goose Gooseneck Coupler # BWTEXA4200 with a 24,000 lb capacity you would be limited to the truck's capacity.

With that all said, you will only see a benefit getting the added 10 inch clearance that the Extend-A-Goose offers.

I've added a link to a video review of this coupler for you to check out.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Jason H.

4/19/2019

Kyle, One last question will airbag suspension and or overload springs help out?

Kyle S.

4/19/2019

An air bag suspension enhancement will absolutely help out in terms of a more pleasant towing experience because they will improve your truck's overall handling and help reduce the sag in your 2018 Ram 2500 when towing. The air bag suspension I strongly recommend, the Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs # F2598. These will help to level out your truck with a load on it which means your front end is going to have more contact with the ground. What happens when you are towing is the weight is unevenly placed on the rear axle, which in turn slightly lifts the front end of your truck. When this happens your truck handles poorly and your tires wear out unevenly. The use of the Ride-Rite will remedy that and greatly reduce the strain on your Ram's rear suspension. I also strongly recommend a compressor because it allows you to adjust the air pressure in each bag from the comfort of your truck's cab, which you can do with the Air Command Compressor System w/ Light Duty Compressor - Wireless - Smartphone Enabled # F2610.