Is Offset Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapter Needed for 2012 Dutchmen Voltage and 2010 Ford F-250

Question:

I have a 2012 Dutchmen Voltage 3200 toyhauler. According to Dutchmen a slider hitch is not needed with use with a short bed truck due to the design of the front of the RV. I have a short bed truck 2010 Ford F250 6.5 bed. Taking your figures 102inch RV W div 2 = 51+ 4inch = 55, I would require the offset covert-a-ball gooseneck hitch. Do I use an offset or not? or due to the design of the RV an offset is not required?

asked by: Patrick L

Expert Reply:

There are 5th wheel trailers that are designed with a narrower front end or cutouts at the front corners that allow turning without the trailer and truck making contact with each other. With these trailers it is possible that you will not need an offset adapter or a slider 5th wheel trailer hitch.

Ford trucks can be a little tricky though. Do you know the width of the trailer at the front not counting the cutout designs? I could figure out if an offset is needed or not with that information.

I am assuming that since you are looking at 5th wheel to gooseneck adapters that your 2010 Ford F-250 has a gooseneck hitch in it. The offset of an adapter such as # CAB-C5GX1216 will not increase turning clearance because it does not move the pivot point of the trailer.

expert reply by: Michael H