Parts Needed To Go From Fifth Wheel Hitch to Gooseneck Hitch on 2002 Ford F-250

Question:

i have a 2002 Ford F-250 super duty crew cab short bed with above bed gooseneck hitch - I have traded doc fifth wheel camper and want to know what is the best way to connect the two without compromising frame stress issues and ride compromise -i like the Reese goose box but not sure how that affects the ride and truck does have the 6foot shorter bed ??? Your thoughts ?

asked by: Dustin S

Expert Reply:

The best practice is to tow a fifth wheel trailer with a fifth wheel hitch. With a 6 foot bed a slider hitch is recommended.

Your next best alternative would be to use a Reese Goosebox like part # RP85FR, which you referenced. This Goosebox replaces Lippert 0719, 1621 and 1621HD or Fabex PB-600 Series OEM Pin Boxes. For Lippert 0115, 1116 and 1716 pin boxes, # RP94716-61301 would be used. The Goosebox features an internal air spring for less chucking and bouncing (horizontal and vertical shock.)

The Reese Goose Box does not offer additional clearance for short bed trucks above what the stock pin box would offer. For extra clearance and to keep the Goose Box you would need to use an offset gooseneck ball, if available for the gooseneck trailer hitch you have. If you can tell me the make and model of the gooseneck hitch I can determine if we have an offset ball.

expert reply by: Chris O