Using Convert-A-Ball CAB-C5GX1216 Offset Adapter on Flat Bed Truck  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Because the Convert-A-Ball # CAB-C5GX1216 adapter is cushioned, it will isolate the tow vehicle from some of the banging and chucking, but even if you used a 5th wheel hitch instead of an adapter it's still possible you'd experience some rattling and chucking.

I'm not certain what you mean bike 'forward extension'. The # CAB-C5GX1216 adapter is meant to provide a 7-1/2 inch offset to the rear, not forward. To determine if you'll have enough clearance between the rear of the truck cab and the front of the 5th wheel, you'll need to use the clearance formula shown below:

(A + B) - C = Clearance
A = Distance from the center of the gooseneck ball to the truck cab
B = Offset used (7-1/2 inches, in this case)
C = Width of the nose of the trailer divided by 2.

At least 4 inches of clearance is recommended to safely execute a 90 degree turn.

You'll also want to measure for the clearance of the rear flatbed corners. Measure 7-1/2 inches rearward from the gooseneck ball, mark that location. Then measure the distance from that point to one of the rear corners of the flat bed. Then, measure from the 5th wheel's king pin rearward to the front of the 5th wheel under the trailer loft. If the measurement from your mark on the flat bed to the bed corner is greater than the distance between the king pin and the front of the 5th wheel under the loft, the bed corner will strike the front of the 5th wheel during turns.

expert reply by: Mike L

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