Need Access to Truck Bed When Im Not Towing which is better Gooseneck or 5th Wheel?  

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Expert Reply:

Gooseneck trailers are primarily commercially used, while 5th Wheels are primarily used recreationally. Goosenecks come in a variety of styles, some hitch balls are fixed, while others are detachable so you can remove from the bed or change it the ball out to a different size. We even have gooseneck balls that fold down into the bed of the truck, to provide more clearance when the gooseneck is not in use. In some states passengers are not allowed to ride in the trailer if being towed by a gooseneck hitch.

A fifth wheel hitch will generally have a smoother ride. It is a similar connection that is used between a semi and trailer. Passengers are allowed to ride in the trailer when pulled by a 5th wheel hitch in most states, as a result 5th wheels are the most popular when it comes to towing RVs and campers.

I recommend the fifth wheel hitch because it is the industry standard for towing an RV. Since you have a fifth wheel trailer a fifth wheel hitch is the best choice and the safest option. The fifth wheel hitch is already set up to accept the king pin connection, after the install, once the king pin is connected then you are ready to tow. I would not recommend a gooseneck in this instance, simply because it would not be efficient to make it compatible to connect with your RV.

Some of the disadvantages of towing a fifth wheel trailer with a goose neck hitch are the use of adapters to make the trailer fit a gooseneck hitch and going through the process of converting your trailer to make a gooseneck hitch fit. When drivers purchase a 5th wheel to gooseneck adapter it is normally used when a person already has a gooseneck trailer hitch installed in the truck and needs to tow both gooseneck and 5th wheel trailers. These adapters are a good solution, but do not provide as nice a ride when towing a fifth wheel trailer.

You also mentioned that you need full access to your truck bed, "below bed rails" 5th wheel trailer hitches leave the bed clear when the hitch is removed. If your 2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty has an 8 Foot Bed without Factory Rail Kit, this B&W Companion 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch # BWRVK3500-5W is a confirmed fit and will do the trick.

This hitch features, a rail-free design allows for full access to truck bed when hitch is removed. Its also has a quiet, and secure ride you have been looking for. You will also need the Installation Kit # BWGNRK1111-5W to complete the install. This kit also doubles as a gooseneck hitch so if you ever need to tow a gooseneck trailer, you will be set up for that.

I have attached videos and pictures to get more familiar with this product.

expert reply by: Timothy G

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