Comparing The B&W Companion Vs The B&W Gooseneck Ball For A 2022 Chevy Silverado 3500 Short Bed

Question:

Hi. I just got a 2022 Chevy Silverado 3500 short bed with the factory gooseneck hitch in it. I tow a 5th wheel toy hauler and am debating between going with the B&W Companion slider or the B&W factory goose ball and an adapter like the Andersen Ranch Hitch. Is one way better than the other?

asked by: Vicki

Expert Reply:

There are advantages and disadvantages for both options on your 2022 Chevy Silverado 3500 short bed and I have them listed out below.

B&W Companion OEM 5th Wheel Hitch w/ Slider # BWRVK3775
Advantages:
-Robust as all get out
-12" of travel for good clearance
-Fully articulating head eases hookup
-Lifetime Warranty

Disadvantages:
-Limits bed space
-It's heavy (around 250 pounds)
-Only rated to 20,000 pounds
-Expensive

B&W Ball and Safety Chain Kit # BWGNXA2061 and Andersen Ranch Hitch # AM3139
Advantages:
-24,000 pound capacity
-Quick and easy installation
-Lots of bed space
-Very easy removal when not towing
-Less Expensive

Disadvantages:
-Only 8" of offset
-Drilling is required for the install ( # AM3139 only)
-Can not be used with a cushioned or air ride pin box ( # AM3139 only)
-1 Year Warranty for the # AM3139 (the # BWGNXA2061 has a Lifetime Warranty)

In conclusion, either way will definitely work and all these American made products are recommended. Between the two though, I personally prefer the B&W Companion # BWRVK3775. Yes, it is more expensive and rated for less weight, but the 12" of travel when sliding it means there is no way for your 5th wheel to contact the cab of your new truck. The Andersen # AM3139 only having 8" of offset makes me a little nervous doing very tight maneuvering turns.