Should I Build my Boat Trailer as a Gooseneck or 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

I am buying a boat that is 16000lb and I am having a trailer built for the boat that is about 3000lb is gooseneck or 5th wheel better and will my 3500 2009 dodge diesel with dual wheel handel it.

asked by: Jim P

Expert Reply:

Some people prefer the fifth wheel hitch over the goose neck as it spreads the weight out in the bed of your truck a little more than the gooseneck does.

To determine if your truck could handle towing your boat and trailer I would recommend consulting the owners manual of your 2009 Dodge Ram 3500.

If you have a 6.5' bed then I recommend a slider like the # C16541 to increase your turning clearance for tight turns.

It would also be easier to hitch up to a fifth wheel hitch because its easier to back up to and hitch up to a fifth wheel than it is a gooseneck. The reason for that is that you have limited vision of the ball and nothing that guides the trailer to where it needs to stop like a fifth wheel hitch has.

The gooseneck will give you a lot more truck bed space, and if you get a fold-down style hitch you will have even more room in your truck bed when not in use.

If your 2009 Dodge 3500 truck has an 8 foot bed than the Reese 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch, part # RP30928, that you referenced plus Custom Rail Kit, part # RP30035-186, would work very well for you. I attached installation instructions below for you to check out.

If you wanted to go the gooseneck route I would recommend you use a Reese Gooseneck for the 2009 Dodge Ram Pickup, part # 8339-4435. This hitch will work on your truck if it is a 6 foot bed or an 8 foot bed. I attached installation instructions below for you to check out.

I attached FAQ articles on gooseneck and fifth wheel hitches below for you to check out also.